We are thrilled to introduce Basak Agaoglu, a celebrated artist known for her playful and delicate creations. Her unique journey and designs tell a captivating story, highlighting the expressive beauty of textiles and paper. We were fortunate to collaborate with her on our Kips Bay project, where she helped craft the perfect Kit’s Wing Chair. On today’s blog, join us as we sit down with Basak Agaoglu and explore her inspiring story.
Can you tell us about your journey into the art world? What inspired you to become an artist?
My grandmother was a talented patternmaker and seamstress and my three great aunts were masters of hand embroidery. Being surrounded by these women sparked my early love for textiles. When I moved to New York to study fashion design, I discovered the world of picture books, which immediately captivated me. Growing up in Turkey, there weren’t many opportunities to experience this kind of art and storytelling, so encountering it felt like a revelation. It sparked my fascination with how storytelling can be conveyed through both drawing and textiles, which ultimately led me to pursue my own path.
Below is a piece of my great aunts’ hand-embroidered work:
How would you describe your artistic style and the themes you explore in your work?
I try to capture tender, fragile moments that unfold between humans, animals and nature. I’m drawn to the subtle connections and emotions that emerge in these quiet exchanges and I try to distill these moments to their simplest form. In my drawings, I primarily use ink to create a sense of fluidity and ease. When it comes to textiles, I believe that different fabrics evoke different emotions.
Are there specific experiences or influences that have shaped your creative process?
When I was a child, my grandmother sewed me a green coat that I loved so much I wore it until it was falling apart. Years later, while in college, I made a similar coat for her and she wore it with such pride. That exchange was very special to both of us and deepened my appreciation for the art of making things by hand. It taught me the true joy and emotional connection that comes from creating something meaningful with your own hands.
What mediums do you work with most often and why are they meaningful to you?
I primarily work with paper and textiles. These are materials I’ve used since childhood. They feel familiar and comforting.
How do cultural or personal narratives play a role in your artwork?
My Turkish heritage deeply influences my work, especially through the country’s rich textile and embroidery traditions. My father, a documentary photographer, traveled widely across Turkey and often took my brother and me along. He introduced us to carpet makers and artisans in centuries-old ateliers who wove fabrics by hand. These encounters shaped my appreciation for craftsmanship and the cultural symbolism embedded in these materials.
Has your work evolved over time?
For a long time, I kept my illustrations and textiles separate. Bringing these two worlds together has been an exciting shift.
What upcoming projects are you excited about?
I’m really excited about the custom headboard we’re working on for one of the beautiful suites at Crosby Street Hotel. I can’t wait to see it come to life.
What was your favourite part about being a part of the Kips Bay project?
Collaborating with your brilliant team was my favourite part. Your ability to weave colour, pattern and texture in ways that are both unexpected and harmonious is truly inspiring. Watching the vision come to life and stepping into your beautifully curated, jewel-like space with our embroidery design on the iconic Kit’s Wing Chairs was an incredibly rewarding moment.
When you are not working, what do you like to do in your free time?
Taking walks with our dog, Fargo, in Central Park is my favourite thing to do.
We hope you enjoyed learning more about Basak Agaoglu’s story, and stay tuned for more exciting things to come!