Welcome to the world of
Sensory Alchemy
Where Design is Transformed into Experiences
More of us than ever before recognize the significance of experiential design: after all, the spaces we design, design us.
By creating, curating, and designing experiences, we can spark creativity, evoke emotional waves, adapt to ever-changing desires, uphold sustainability and moral values, promote solidarity, and ignite transformative behaviors. Our peak experiences are often what we remember most in our lives; when we add intentionality and thoughtful preparation, we supercharge these unforgettable moments while cultivating meaningful connections. Herein lies a path to a more radiant future for all.
Hey there, friend! Welcome to my portfolio website. I'm Günel, your personal guide through this adventure.
I am an artist, experiential designer, conceptual designer, storyteller, and entrepreneur with a passion for connecting people to their senses, each other, and our greatest teacher: Nature.
I'm the proud founder of a sustainable wearable art brand that focuses on innovative fabrics inspired by biomimicry. Plus, I'm also the steward and creative director of the enchanting, ‘Makarorae Sanctuary,’ a retreat center just a stone's throw away from Boulder, CO. Here, my mission is to guide others in deepening their bond with nature and rethinking our living systems.
My adventure in designing experiences began over 10 years ago, when I merged my two professional loves: large-scale event production and immersive storytelling. This journey led me to thrilling experiences around the world – from envisioning future cities in the Middle East to coordinating exclusive events on remote islands.
My greatest joy comes from designing and facilitating spaces that encourage us to rethink how we spend time together. With a focus on connecting to participants' emotions, inner child-like wonder, or hidden desires, my creations prioritize integration. I strive to help people experience a sense of belonging by changing the way we connect, the way we understand ourselves and others, and the way we live.
Many of my projects are highly confidential and must remain mysterious (until they’re not). Please see below a partial list of former clients:
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SANDBOX
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Formula 1
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Eurovision
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Azulik
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Hedone
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El Ganzo hotel
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Topia
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Cirque du Soleil
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Leaders on Purpose
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Design Science Studio
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Gray Area
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Envision Festival
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Planet Home
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Buckminster Fuller Institue
• SANDBOX • Formula 1 • Eurovision • Azulik • Hedone • El Ganzo hotel • Topia • Cirque du Soleil • Leaders on Purpose • Design Science Studio • Gray Area • Envision Festival • Planet Home • Buckminster Fuller Institue
Clients
Projects
Azulik Hotel
During my tenure at Azulik hotel, I had the privilege to immerse myself in the world of luxury hotels and contribute to the redefinition of their narrative, as well as the enhancement of guest experience. I was responsible for various aspects of the hotel's operations, including culinary presentation, guest room design, music selection, wellness program development, and staff training. Additionally, I organized captivating dining experiences that created unforgettable moments and contributed to the hotel's expansion and appeal. This invaluable experience has refined my skills and expertise in the hospitality industry, enabling me to adapt to diverse environments and create memorable guest experiences.
Jardin de éden
Once upon a time in the jungle of Tulum, I orchestrated a magical event aimed at awakening people's sensual desires. I crafted a beautiful tale which revolved around the Garden of Eden. In this reimagined version, the story diverged from the biblical narrative in which Eve tempts humans into sin.Rather than playing a negative role, Eve joined forces with the serpent to help stir a long-lost passion deep within the hearts of mankind. This ancient desire deserved to be celebrated, encouraged and fully embraced as an integral part of our true selves.
The attendees found themselves interacting with a captivating live serpent, which presented them with apples adorned with unique symbols. Each symbol held the key to unlocking an exquisite experience, but to partake in it, the guests were required to seek out their counterparts sharing the same symbols.
Initially, we established male and female groups to foster safety and meaningful discussions surrounding consent and boundaries. Once this foundation had been laid out, an exhilarating night filled with unbridled desires and lighthearted play commenced, leaving all attendees transformed by this original tale turned reality.
Paraosia is an immersive company that facilitates psychedelic experiences and integration. In my role as the Head of Costume Design and Set Design, I played a crucial role in designing captivating characters and collaborating closely with performers to help them fully embody their roles. I led a team of talented artists, coordinating their efforts to bring the costumes and masks to life. I created 3D renders and technical drawings to ensure the successful realization of the costumes and masks. Throughout this process, I diligently worked under tight deadlines, successfully bringing pop-up experiences to various live and digital spaces, including Burning Man in 2022.
GUNEL
I have an unwavering passion for fashion. Our garments can empower us to transform into anything or anyone, for a time. This revelation drove me to create a wearable art brand, despite having no formal education in fashion. I opted to weave threads that unified wearers with nature. Throughout the process of creating a sustainable fashion brand, I’ve faced various challenges in the industry, striving to reform it by unearthing delicate, organic, and readily available / up cycled fabrics infused with natural dyes – all while adhering to ethical and cruelty-free principles.
I’ve developed innovative fabrics using orange pulp fiber and crafted customized pieces for individuals across the globe.
From wedding gowns and engagement jewelry, to hotel uniforms and secret society capes, my brand narrates captivating tales, crafts unforgettable experiences, and bestows earthbound-Jedi-warriors with the strength needed to protect our planet.
Hedoné
Hedoné - an artistic movement rooted in ethical hedonism - aimed to unite people of all ages, identities, and orientations through a singular, enchanting experience. As the experiential designer for Hedoné's Tulum event, I collaborated with talented artists and musicians to create an unforgettable seven-day adventure.
This immersive journey offered guests a unique blend of stories and performances while ensuring a safe and inclusive space. With workshops led by renowned healers, teachers, and international artists, the event culminated in a night of vibrant celebration accompanied by musical explorations that continued into the early hours.
Through meticulous attention to detail and adherence to Hedoné's aesthetic principles, I orchestrated seamless transitions between experiences, making sure that both knowledge and celebration remained at the heart of this unforgettable gathering.
Inanna
Inanna, the Babylonian goddess of pleasure, sparked the creation of a mystical event held in an ancient hacienda just outside of Mexico City. This secret society, crafted by women to celebrate femininity, weaves together enchanting tales, games, and adventures for all who enter, though only women possess the keys. Inanna's annual occurrence holds a special place in my heart; while months of planning are required, it never fails to leave participants yearning for more.
Dutch Government
In 2019, I found myself entrusted by the Dutch Government with a unique project – orchestrating the PHX Unconference on a secluded Amsterdam island. A melting pot of brilliant minds, from scientists and tech enthusiasts to investors, creatives, and artists, all gathered to make a lasting impact on the world's trajectory. My mission: to create serene sanctuaries for introverts seeking refuge from the island's sensory overload. As the maestro behind the scenes, I also synchronized with musicians and artists, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.
“The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time...”
BFI
BFI is dedicated to the realization of R. Buckminster Fuller’s vision of a world that works for 100% of humanity without ecological offense or disadvantage of anyone, by means of a design science revolution. At a BFI online conference, I unveiled my digital art collages, envisioning a sustainable future to inspire change. In collaboration with eminent speakers such as Deepak Chopra, we shared our insights for a regenerative tomorrow, alongside other pioneers shaping the world's future.
Planet Home
In September 2019, the Palace of the Fine Arts in San Francisco buzzed with excitement as thousands assembled for a weekend dedicated to creating a sustainable future. Planet Home 2019 showcased innovative exhibitions, eco-minded businesses, and immersive experiences, all woven together with music, delectable organic food, and eco-friendly products.
During this unforgettable event, I unveiled my wearable art and led workshops on sustainable fibers, transforming participants into Earth Jedi who would carry their newfound knowledge into the world on their missions to protect our planet.
Neverland
At a secluded 5-day retreat, 35 individuals embarked on a wondrous 5-day retreat. Here, grown-up conversations ceased to exist, and embracing one's inner child became the mission. Like jubilant 6-year-olds, they climbed trees, played with their food, danced in whimsical costumes, and embarked on enchanting journeys of self-healing. In this magical haven, they rekindled their relationship with the child within.
Topia
Amidst the pandemic, I feared that my event-driven and people-centric career would crumble, but fortune smiled upon me when Topia invited me to craft digital experiences. Suddenly, I was designing events and illustrating worlds with a team of skilled creatives. Together, we constructed a digital Burning Man, hosted retreats for over 1,300 attendees, and organized live concerts. At the pinnacle of my journey was my collaboration with East Forest to create a mesmerizing guided mushroom experience for his latest album, Spore. In this experience, I brought the enchanted forest to life with my watercolors and invited participants to explore this vibrant world.
Mindful Dinners
We embarked on a journey, exploring the power of our senses to forge deeper connections with ourselves and others. Teaming up with renowned chefs, musicians, artists, and performers, we showcased this multisensory experience across the globe. Through artful storytelling and immersive dinners, our audience transcended into different realms. From edible canvas paintings to blindfolded feasts and seven-course symphony-accompanied meals, we captured the essence of connectivity through sensory delight.
Say hello.
Want to team up for an amazing project, snag me as your go-to consultant, build fairytale castles, or become besties? Don't be timid – just say hi! I'd be thrilled to hear from you.