Nuri Abaç

Nuri Abaç (1926 – March 2, 2008) was a Turkish painter and architect recognized as a pioneer of Surrealism and Fantastic Realism in Turkey and one of the most significant architect-painters in 20th-century Turkish art. His work is known for a unique and original blend of Anatolian archaeological motifs, Ottoman miniature aesthetics, and the Karagöz shadow play, presented with a satirical or surreal lens.

Early life and family Nuri Abaç was born in 1926 in Istanbul. His father, Mahmut Celalettin (Celal Abaç), was a founding set designer and decorator for the Istanbul City Theatre (Darülbedayi). In 1931, following the establishment of the Community Centers (Halkevleri), the family moved to Mersin, where Celal Abaç became a central figure in the city's burgeoning cultural and theatrical life. Nevertheless, he remained an active student in Lévy’s workshop, where he developed a foundation in academic landscape and figure painting.

He graduated as an architect in 1950, beginning a dual career that would last decades. He worked as an architect for the State Water Works (DSİ) and later the State Planning Organization (DPT) in Ankara, from which he retired in 1985.

Personal life Abaç lived a modest life in Ankara, focusing intensely on his workshop after his retirement from civil service. He was married to Suna Abaç and had a son, Celal. He passed away on March 2, 2008.