Melih Nehat's 'I Am From There When I Am Here' Blends Bulgarian and Turkish Patterns

Bulgarian-Turkish designer and visual artist Melih Nehat showcases his solo exhibition titled 'I Am From There When I Am Here.' A prominent feature of the exhibit is a large human figure posed like a bridge, adorned with designs inspired by traditional Bulgarian and Turkish textiles, including tablecloths, carpets, and tiles. Nehat's family relocated to Turkey during the late-communist 'Revival Process' and later returned to Bulgaria, prompting his exploration of hybrid identity through this artwork. He emphasizes a shared visual language that challenges nationalist purity, describing the piece as 'a work of confidence rather than confusion.' Nehat, who holds a bachelor's degree in Interior Design from Varna Free University, also has experience in installations, photography, and spatial concepts.