FOUNDER
Aynur Girgin Westen
Aynur Girgin Westen is a fine art photographer, supporter of the arts, and community builder. She believes that art is a powerful tool for uniting people of diverse backgrounds around shared objectives.
Aynur studied English Literature at Istanbul University. After moving to San Francisco in 2009, she became a full-time artist and an important member of the local artistic community. In 2022, she returned to Turkey and founded DAA Art, a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting purpose-driven artists from around the world with the local community. Based in the mountains on the Aegean coast, DAA Art combines her passions for art and environmentalism.
CO-DIRECTOR
Cemre Ceren Asarlı
Cemre Ceren Asarlı is a creative producer, community weaver, cultural manager and creative facilitator.
Cemre is an enthusiast in culture and creativity and she is recently passionate about growing communities through creating safe & brave spaces, meaningful dialogues & connections. She is based in Bodrum, Türkiye and in the last seven years, she has worked with all artistic and cultural disciplines regionally and internationally through collaborations.As a community leader and creative producer, she facilitated numerous local, regional and international activities, events, meetings, and learning journeys.
STRATEGIC ADVISOR
david westen
David Westen is designer, technologist, musician, and entrepreneur.
A graduate of Stanford University, David is the founder of three successful companies working at the intersection of design and technology. He is passionate about building and leading creative organizations, and brings an entrepreneurial perspective (as well as his formidable bartending skills) to the DAA team.
David is also a multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter. His first album, “DREAM OF FLYING,” will be released in November 2025.
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
tuba mÜcella kİper
Tuba Mücella Kiper is a designer and creative lead based in Bodrum.
After graduating from Hacettepe University’s Graphic Design Department, she spent over a decade at MYRA, creating designs for social impact initiatives. Today, she leads the design team at a US-based video streaming company and has been designing for DAA since 2024.
OPERATIONS TEAM
Aynur & Murat Jumabayev
Murat and Aynur, who live on-site, take care of everything in DAA Art Residency to make your experience smooth and enjoyable—Murat handles airport transfers and shuttle services, while Aynur makes sure you’re well-fed and the space stays clean and cozy. They’re here to help, so you can focus on creating and enjoying your time at the residency.