Pink Dreams holds an especially important place in my heart because I completed it on my 40th birthday, in September 2026. Finishing this painting truly felt like turning my dreams into reality, a gift to myself, honoring both the artist I am today and the five-year-old Ezgi who once dreamed of becoming an artist. It takes a lot for an artist to trust her abilities, and this was my first big canvas, created as a celebration of believing in myself and my journey.
For as long as I can remember, I've been drawn to the charm and nostalgia of pink mu'umu'u dresses. So, when Megumi from Waveline Collective encouraged me to make a larger painting for my very first market with them, I didn't hesitate for a second. I dove into my favorite kind of research—poring over photos and sketches of mu'umu'u dresses, developing a color scheme that felt soft, pastel, and inviting. I wanted the painting to embody comfort and ease, something you'd want to wrap yourself in, like your favorite dress.
Photography by Megumi Kean
Funny enough, I didn't set out to make the model look like me. Sometimes, your subconscious takes the lead! Whenever I begin a new piece, I start with a sketch, then look up historical paintings for inspiration. For Pink Dreams, I printed out my references—mu'umu'u dresses, Ottoman coffee sets, and more—and pinned them on my inspiration board beside me. This time, I specifically searched for Ottoman coffee sets to bring a piece of my heritage into the scene.
Detail of the dog from Pink Dreams painting by Ezgi Iraz
I've always adored dogs, but I've never had one of my own. Painting her felt like giving the character something I've always wished for—a loyal companion, quietly sharing in the slow, gentle rhythm of the day. As for the little red sailboat drifting in the distance, that was a way to express the longing for home. In her thoughts, she's dreaming of Türkiye, my homeland, even as she sits peacefully in Hawai'i.
Ezgi Iraz's Waialua Studio, Pink Dreams Painting
When I started Pink Dreams in my loft studio in Waialua, I carried so much hope and positivity into the painting. The studio was filled with good energy, sunlight, and the uplifting spirit of O'ahu. Every brushstroke was a celebration of restful moments, cultural connection, and the beauty of slow living.
Shop "Pink Dreams"
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size: 40 × 30 in
Status: Original, One-of-a-Kind
The original Pink Dreams painting is available for purchase, and you can also choose from three museum-quality print options or a 16×20" canvas print. Each piece is crafted with care and ready to bring positive, gentle energy into your space.
Explore and shop Pink Dreams:
Bring the serene energy of Pink Dreams into your home. Every option is created with attention to detail, ready to ship, and designed to uplift your space with rest, beauty, and cultural harmony.
Thank you for sharing in this journey with me. Pink Dreams is more than a painting—it's a piece of my heart, a bridge between worlds, and a gentle reminder to honor the art of rest.