About

Özlem Sorlu Thompson

Born in Istanbul, Özlem has been passionate about painting since childhood, drawing inspiration from the rich artistic traditions of the Mediterranean. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the vibrant textiles of Eastern Anatolia, her work reflects the cultural diversity and heritage of her homeland.

After relocating to London in 2015, Özlem developed her unique artistic style, blending her academic background in Biology and Botany with her deep love for science and nature. Her paintings weave together natural scenes and imaginative worlds, often inspired by her daily experiences and her admiration for classic cinema and literature. Known for their vitality, joy, and creativity, her works offer a captivating exploration of life’s fantasy, beauty and complexity.

Her studio is in Belsize Park, London, and renowned artists Piet Mondrian and Ben Nicholson lived and worked in the same house. Since 2018, her artwork has been exhibited worldwide, including in New York, Spain, France, Switzerland, Italy, Canada and around the UK. Her published features include;  Capsules Book’s Leaders in Contemporary Art (Australia), The Art Folio Annual: World’s Most Exciting Artists (USA), House and Garden Magazine, the Copelouzos Family Art Museum’s Covart Project (Greece), Moi Aussi in Barcelona and 365artplus Magazine (Japan).

Among her numerous accolades, Özlem has received ‘Best in Show’ in Texas, an ‘Honourable Mention’ in Tokyo, and a ‘Top Ten’ award from Precious Magazine in Hong Kong. In 2022, she was one of seven artists selected to create a giant fiberglass egg for the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth the Second, a project organized by the wildlife charity Elephant Family. She has done another public exhibition ‘The Big Egg Hunt’ for Elephant Family in 2025 Spring in London.

In addition to her studio practice, Özlem is committed to sustainability and philanthropy. She collaborates with eco-conscious fashion designers, such as Sittingsuits, and supports charitable organizations including Elephant Family, Combat Stress, Choose Love, Grief and Hope, Carers Wales, Gravity Water, Draw For, Project Caritas and Trussell Trust.

Her work continues to attract collectors worldwide, with notable names including Anita Dobson and Brian May, Maria Friedman, and Andy Nyman. Özlem’s art, infused with her curiosity and passion, serves as a joyful testament to the world she explores through her creativity.