Resident Artists

Zeynep is an internationally and locally celebrated artist hailing from Bursa, Turkey, where her love for painting blossomed at a young age. Under the guidance of her cherished mentor, the renowned artist Cevat Sakir, affectionately known as the “Fisherman of Halicarnassus,” Zeynep honed her craft, learning to perceive light, shadow, and form with an emotional depth.

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After marrying and raising two sons, Zeynep moved her family to the suburbs of Washington, D.C. in 1978. Eager to continue her artistic journey, she pursued art studies at George Washington University, where her distinctive style began to flourish. Subsequently, she joined The Art League in Alexandria, VA, further nurturing her passion for art.

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Upon her husband's retirement and her children's completion of college, Zeynep and her husband relocated to rural Purcellville, VA, where they established Hillsborough Winery & Brewery. Remaining deeply connected to the local art scene, Zeynep became a member of the Loudoun Sketch Club, fostering friendships with fellow artists and spearheading the exhibition and show committee at the vineyard for a decade.

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Zeynep's studio, situated in the west wing of the main house, offers sweeping views of the vineyards and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Her artwork adorns the walls of Hillsborough tasting room and is showcased at various local art shows. Specializing in oil and pastel mediums, Zeynep creates captivating landscapes, lively farm animal scenes, and more on canvas.

 

Her paintings grace private collections across the United States, Turkey, and Amsterdam. Notably, in May 2012, Zeynep participated in the “Loudoun County’s Countryside” art show in Main-Taunus, Germany, a collaborative effort between the cultural circle of Wallauer Frachwerk e.V and the Franklin Park Art Center in Purcellville, VA. Additionally, Zeynep actively contributes to organizing art shows to support the restoration of the Old Stone School in Hillsboro.