Graphic design and illustration
at the Oslo National Academy of the Arts

Inspired by islamic art and gothic churches

  • Neslihan Ramzi is in her second year of the bachelor program. There was never any doubt in her mind that she wanted to study something creative. «But I was never able to decide wether I wanted to focus on graphic design or illustration, and I was happy and relieved when I realized there was a school that offered both at once. Design is a little scary, because you have to visualize someone elses message, and work according to other peoples wishes. But I would rather that than study fine art» she explains.


  • Neslihan has many interests and sources of inspiration. But her practice is first and foremost based in islamic art. «I try to find a way to mix islamic art and scandinavian design. Arabic typography mixed with grafitti or islamic patterns, mixed with minimalism. I try a lot of different things.» Neslihan has many different interests. «Everything from architecture to bibliographies. Art has always been way up on the list of things that interest me. My first sources of inspiration were churches and mosques. Especially the surfaces of traditional Turkish mosques.» After balancing five jobs for three years Neslihan was ready to go back to school. She loves her class and appreciates the multitudes of opinions and the honesty expressed in her class. After KHiO, her plan is to travel and study in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Palestine or Iran.