“METU creates an environment that really encourages an individual to push for themselves and be successful.”
Doğa Karaalp studied Animation at METU, which she thinks combines visual arts and storytelling the best. She wishes to improve her skills in the field to become a professional concept artist.
Why did you choose this field, this major and what inspires you?
I have always been interested in visual arts and storytelling. Animation is the perfect field that combines these two interests. Storytelling has been a need for mankind since the beginning of time, stories communicate messages indirectly and emotionally. While visuals can communicate stories through composition, when combined; animation holds the potential to be the ultimate tool of communicating ideas with our current technology.
What were your favourite projects at METU and why?
The morphing animation task called "Myths of the Sun" which uses a lot of symbolism from mythologies around the world about the sun is among my favourites. Though my diploma work Paracosm definitely comes first place.
What was your diploma work and why did you choose this topic?
I created a psychological horror film called Paracosm, inspired by my own experiences as a little child growing up in an unfriendly environment, that pushes her to escapism in imagination. Paracosm deals with childhood and traumas, while exploring philosophical concepts of cosmicism.
What did METU contribute to your professional development?
The university environment allowed me to meet so many amazing artists with common passions as me, I am very thankful to have met all of them as my diploma work was a collaborative project. Our consultant professors have also guided me through the best possible potential journey that I could have taken as an artist.
What does METU’s credo “Inspired by Creativity” mean to you?
The creative brain functions so uniquely than anything else, it solves problems and helps people. However, as an artist, most importantly creativity seeks the most efficient ways to speak to people, communicate new ideas and encourage collaboration.
What would you say to those who want to apply to a university, why choose METU?
METU creates an environment that really encourages an individual to push for themselves and be successful. If they are individualistic and seek success no matter what, this university can give them what they are searching for.
What are your plans for the future?
I wish to improve my skills in the field to become a professional concept artist as I believe the designing phase is where my skills shine the most.
Take your next step at METU’s bachelors' program – get to know our Animation BA program!