The Gathering - Fatma Durmush

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I was born in Larnaca, Cyprus, arriving in the UK in 1962. I was dyslexic and could not speak English, but learned how to speak within two weeks. I did not come into my own as an artist until after I did a degree and MA in Art and Printing at the University of East London which was completed in 2008. I was knifed in 1997 which became a profound turning point in my life, and after a few admissions to mental institutions gave me the motivation to start painting. At this point I also started to become a better writer, and have had books, articles and poetry published under the pseudonym ‘Pencil’. It was not until 2018 that I obtained a practitioners certificate in control and violence, as I wanted to understand the whole thing.
In 2009 I studied at the Open University where I did a psychology course. I have found that art helps me to process my feelings in a unique way, and I have had my work exhibited around a spectrum of galleries and venues.
I am still currently involved with the Bethlem hospital as a painter and also with Centrepieces who have been helping to exhibit and promote my artwork.
What does not kill you makes you stronger.