Hand forged from steel and bronze, Derya Ozperlak’s provocative sculptures are designed to make a statement about the perils of capitalism and our desire to be free. The Turkish born artist has created a body of intriguing work that often uses images from the corporate world. For this tabletop sculpture a (patinated) bronze figure in a full suit sits in the middle of a metal seesaw—at its fulcrum so that it remains perfectly balanced. He is holding a shiny bright red balloon. What happens if he moves?

"The balloons evolved into an open concept representing the illusions people feel about hope and freedom. In reality, many people are tied to their past and that prevents them from truly realizing future aspirations." - Derya Ozparlak

Since completing a BFA from the Anadolu University in Turkey, Ozparlak has exhibited in group and solo shows in Canada and internationally in Italy, Spain, Turkey, Lebanon, and the US. She now lives and works in Toronto. Ozparlak's highly detailed sculptures are held in private and corporate collections in Canada and internationally in Istanbul, Berlin, and Capri.