My name is Aya Doslu (they/them) and I am a multidisciplinary artist born and raised in Portland, Oregon. Before I started tattooing, I received my BFA in Intermedia/Multimedia from PNCA. Transitioning into tattooing has felt like the perfect combination of drawing and working with my hands that I’ve been looking for, and i’m so happy to be here. Outside of the tattoo studio, you can find me cuddling with my cat Gizmo, watching too much TV and movies, and making more art. I am most happy when I am making and creating.
Why the Name "Absurd Aya"?
Thats a great question, and I'm glad you asked. I did not make my artist name "Absurd Aya" to say that all my art is absurd in the negative sense of the word. Rather, absurdness to me means a lack of objective meaning or truth; and when I think about the big picture of life and its meaning.. it's absurd!
"The realization that life is absurd and cannot be an end, but only a beginning... It is not this discovery that is interesting, but the consequences and rules of action drawn from it" - Albert Camus.
Being neurodivergent, my brain often favors categorizing things, and splits ideas into black and white answers. I find a lot of power and freedom in embracing this theory that "life is absurd"; and I can stop searching for the 'right' answers on how to live my life. Embracing absurdity is my autonomy. I see absurdity everywhere and it is beautiful.
Want to collaborate or get in touch? Please fill out my contact form below and I will get back to you shortly.
Thank you!
Art Awards & Exhibitions
New Visionaries Exhibition at LightBox Photographic Gallery, 2023
Gold Key Portland Metro Scholastic Art Awards, 2017
Fresh Film Northwest Heart Award, 2016