DolmusXpress, aka Ayrancı-Neukölln Dolmusu, is a bilingual multimedia platform and an online magazine designed to act as an aesthetic-intellectual bridge between the cities of Ankara and Berlin.
It presents all kinds of artistic, intellectual productions and initiatives with a social aspect to its followers. It believes diversity brings along an aesthetic and intellectual abundance and endeavors to maintain its publication policy in this direction.
This creative project that connects artists and communities from Ankara (Ayrancı) and Berlin (Neukölln), using the metaphor of the “dolmuş” (a shared minibus) to bring together different cultural and artistic expressions. Dolmusch aims to foster collaboration, exchange, and a sense of shared space across borders, drawing inspiration from both cities’ vibrant cultures.
First thing’s first, we need a dolmuş. So let’s start with the illustration!
The illustration above marks the first-ever visual representation of Dolmusch. Although it’s still in its early stages, it captures the essence of what the final design will embody. It gives a powerful preview of how the colors will interact, the tone it will set, and, most importantly, the kind of vibe Dolmusch will exude to its readers. This initial concept speaks to the heart of the project—its blend of creativity, energy, and connection—and hints at the immersive, dynamic experience that awaits those who engage with it. As the vision comes to life, this early sketch is a window into the exciting possibilities ahead.
welcoming, nostalgic, laid back yet energetic!
This is the color palette inspired by the very first illustration of Dolmusch.
It begins with //deep charcoal, a shade reminiscent of the Ankara winter and the color of our tires—solid, enduring, and grounding.
This rich base is beautifully balanced with the contrast of //pure white, which helps create a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere, inviting calm and reflection.
Adding a touch of //terra cotta and //gold brings an energetic nostalgic quality to the palette, complementing each other and evoking the familiar sight of traffic lights and infusing the design with vibrancy and creativity. These warm, earthy tones infuse a sense of movement and energy, while still holding onto something familiar.
Finally, the cool, refreshing //sky blue introduces a sense of openness and a readiness to embrace new perspectives. It symbolizes the boundless possibilities that lie ahead, making room for fresh ideas and connections.
Together, these colors reflect Dolmusch as an initiative that bridges the familiar with the new, blending nostalgia with innovation to create something both welcoming and forward-thinking.
Dolmusch in context:
