Elif Satanaya Özbay

Elif Satanaya Özbay, born in The Netherlands with a Turkish-Circassian background, is an artist whose performance and research-based works revolve around diasporic nostalgia within the horror framework. By referring to Circassian myths, contemporary entertainment, and Turkish folklore, she initiates pieces that start from an autobiographical point and continue to fictionalize through mind mapping and linking methods.

During the residency, Elif will work on a performance lecture that will delve into themes of mirrors, reflections, and the intricate notion of 'Circassian Beauty.' Originating from the 18th-century freakshows by P.T. Barnum, this phenomenon and label were associated with Circassian women who sought refuge from ethnic cleansing and potential enslavement in Ottoman harems. The narrative surrounding Circassian Beauty weaves together elements of fiction and truth, allowing Elif to reflect on her historical background and representation.

Elif studied at the Design Academy Eindhoven and Sandberg Institute, Amsterdam, where she continues her practice. She has shown works at La Casa Encendida (Madrid), MACA (Amsterdam), Extrapool (Nijmegen), SIGN+ Gallery (Groningen), MU Hybrid Art Space (Eindhoven), AADK (Spain), Media Art Festival (Leeuwarden), Sonic Acts Academy (Amsterdam). Elif has a vampire show on JAJAJANEENEENEE Radio with artist Andrea González Garrán, and she is a recipient of the talent development grant from the Stimuleringsfonds Creatieve Industrie.

Her residency at MORPHO is being carried out in collaboration with Hotel Maria Kapel in Hoorn, The Netherlands.