BIOGRAPHY

Cem received his art education in Izmir at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Textile Design from 1983-1987.
Cem has always been passionate about painting. His curious and adventurous personality and his keenness to invent new things have led him to try all possible paints, techniques and styles. At first, his paintings were realistic and had a photographic quality.
 
Immigrating to Canada in 2001, Cem set out to create a unique style as a result of a series of explorations in his new and radically different life. For him creativity and originality have always been essential in contemporary art. Cem’s style is a modern mutation/transformation of his past experiences into the way of life in a new country.
 
Cem Basarir has found art competitions and prizes absolutely meaningless and unnecessary, and has refused to take part in such events, as he believes that unlike cars or horses, artists cannot be forced to compete.
He was asked to become the chairman of CFS (Colour and Form Society) even though he had been a member for only two years. He chaired the organization for about 18 months and then left this position on his own free will.
His work has been reported on by many TV stations, newspapers and magazines which published interviews with him.
Princeton Art & Brush Co. Inc. asked him to try their brushes- he did and in turn offered them feedback regarding his experiences with their products.
At the request of one of the biggest advertising agencies of the world, McCann, Cem gave permission for the display of his work on the walls of the agency for six months.
He has had international shows and his work continues to receive great attention and interest at auctions.
 
Cem Basarir continues his art practice in Toronto where he interacts with groups of viewers that have high artistic awareness and embrace the novelty of his innovative paintings. This positive interaction has led to a warm welcome for his works. Cem now has a special customer base and his art is met with a lot of interest. He has many followers. 
 
Cem’s art is truly unique: He even produces his own canvasses and paints.