Holding Space

Nehir Uslu’s Holding Space features interactive fiber works, soft objects, and weavings that invite visitors to engage in reflection, intentional rest, and care. Informed by experience in mental health advocacy and working in clinical settings, the works center softness as an active site of belonging, emotional presence, and understanding.

Through tactile surfaces, gentle soft prompts for introspection, and opportunities for collaborative arrangement and play, the show frames fibers not only as a medium of comfort, but also as a method of practicing relational care. In addition to being a source of comfort, fiber becomes a tool that could be used therapeutically to support grounding and healing.

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Nehir Uslu is a Turkey-born and raised, Chicago-based artist, illustrator, and mental health advocate currently completing her BFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Working primarily with fiber, weaving, and soft sculpture, her practice explores how texture, touch, and material engagement can support care, grounding, and emotional presence. Her work often takes the form of interactive installations and tactile objects that invite reflection, rest, and participation.

Grounded in research around sensory experience and psychological well-being, Nehir creates environments and objects that function as vessels for exploring emotion, vulnerability, and healing. Alongside her studio practice, she is preparing to pursue a degree in Social Work, intending to work in mental health settings that integrate direct support, advocacy, and community care. Through both fiber arts and illustration, she bridges creative practice and mental health advocacy, using visual language to foster dialogue, belonging, and collective resilience.

Image courtesy of the artist.

Nehir Uslu

February 13 - March 7, 2026 at Art City