# Turkish retired teachers pursuing art

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-retired-teachers-pursuing-art
> Updated: 2026-10-31T06:55:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Retired teachers in Turkey have turned to artistic pursuits following their careers. In Van, Rıfat Çalışkan has converted part of his home into a studio and gallery to showcase paintings of landscapes and Anatolian culture. In Ankara, Rıza Kara has created approximately 750 works of root art using discarded juniper and pine wood, focusing primarily on bird figures.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-31: Rıza Kara transforms natural waste into root art

Retired teacher Rıza Kara has created 750 artworks from natural wood waste, choosing to remain in Turkey to inspire local youth.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rza-kara-transforms-natural-waste-into-root-art

### 2026-10-30: Rıfat Çalışkan transforms home into art gallery after 55 years of painting

Retired teacher Rıfat Çalışkan has turned his home in Van, Turkey, into an art gallery to showcase 55 years of paintings focused on nature and Anatolian culture.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rfat-alkan-transforms-home-into-art-gallery-after-55-years-of-painting

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Cite as: Turkish retired teachers pursuing art. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-retired-teachers-pursuing-art