“Hold Me Tightly” 2021–2026 from the Dream Objects series Artist’s own photograph, digital drawing and manipulation, marker over diasec print 94.5 × 80 cm First exhibited at Artweeks Akaretler (5th edition), Istanbul, 2021. Today I completed the final layer of this work. Over the years I returned to the surface several times, adding new marks and inscriptions, including calligraphic elements from ancient Chinese scripts, contemporary Chinese characters, and Nüshu. The work reflects on our relationship with objects of desire. In the image I appear to hold a luxury bag tightly, as if it gives me strength. Yet the relationship is reversible: the object depends on my grip to remain meaningful. What began in 2021 as a staged photograph has gradually transformed into a layered mixed-media surface—part image, part drawing, part inscription. The piece now feels complete. #dreamobjects #mixedmediaart #contemporaryart #artprocess #ANQI