"I remember being
surprised, years ago, to find out Metin had become an artist. When I
knew him, he had his hands full being a daytime soccer coach and
nighttime and weekend actor ... and doing pretty well at both. It
doesn't surprise me he turned to painting, however. He had a flair for
drama and self-expression. Nor does it surprise me that he uses so much
of that talent on charitable work. He's one of those people who always
seem grateful for every day they're given, every breath they take,
every opportunity someone puts in their way. People like that, like
Metin, always give back more than their fair share."
Clifton Truman Daniel
"I am very grateful and I
wanted to applaud your generosity in donating past works to a number of
prominent charities. Thanks so much."
"You are greatly
talented and have chosen to use your art in an admirable and worthy
cause..."
Roy E. Barnes, Governor
State of Georgia
Spencer Abraham
U.S. Senate
"I wish to extend my thanks
and gratitude for the donation of your painting "Dancers." It is
obvious you are a very talented artist, and the City of Beverly Hills
wishes to thank you for the donation of such an excellent piece of art
work. It is admirable that you have given your time and talent with the
gift of this painting..."
Thomas S. Levyn
Mayor, City of Beverly Hills
"Combining his tremendous
artistic talent with his large humanitarian heart, Metin Bereketli is
one of those rare individuals destined to make a difference in the
world.
Metin and I first met when he volunteered
his time and talent for the Triumphs Awards honoring doctors and
researchers making significant contributions in the fight against
leukemia and related cancers. As I viewed his portfolio, I noticed a photograph of Metin with childhood leukemia
survivors. It was perfect for the Awards gala, but more than that, it
proved that this was a man who was comfortable with charity and
kindness towards others.
Metin and I continued with our friendship
even though I moved to another non-profit organization. As a volunteer
for Switzer Center
School, Metin has donated his art for the annual South Bay Women of
the Year Awards – for four years and counting. We’ve
enjoyed the color and symbolism of “Earth Family”, the
popularity of “Dancers”, the emotionalism of “God
Bless America” and the uplifting spirit of “Creation of
Love”. Switzer Center, a special education school, serves
children with learning, social or emotional challenges. We are blessed
to know this talented and generous man.
Shirley Tyler, Development Director
Special Educational and Psychological
Services for Those With Learning, Social and Emotional Difficulties.
Switzer Center School and Clinical Services
"We are delighted to have
these examples of your art work which have been done for such worthy
causes. You are thoughtful to think of us, and Barbara and I appreciate
your gesture of friendship."
George H. W. Bush
U.S. President
"Thank you for the good
hearted, inspirational art work you have provided us. Your talents and
hard work do not go unnoticed with us here in the Art Department... You
have a colorful yet thoughtfull style that promises to take you to
great places in this world..."
Matthew C. Jacobs,
Production Designer
ABC Television Network
"Just wanted to drop a
note and say thank you for helping my sets look terrific! Your artwork
has been very useful in both the "Friends" and "Veronica's Closet"
Television shows. It is not often that you meet an artist so dedicated
to his or her Craft and supporting good causes around the world."
Greg Grande, Set
Decorator
Friends
"Thank you for your work
in support of leukemia research and care. I am pleased to know of your
efforts and send my encouragement..."
Senator Bob Dole
"This is to acknowledge
that Metin Bereketli helped to benefit the American Diabetes
Association by exhibiting his art at two fund raising events held for
the Association.
The first event Mr. Bereketli
participated in was the Casino Caper which was held at the Los Angeles
Athletic Club in October, 1998.
In December 1997, Mr. Bereketli
exhibited several of his works at a Celebrity Waiters event which was
held in the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles.
At both functions, Mr. Bereketli
offered a percentage of the sales of his paintings to the American
Diabetes Association. On behalf of the Association, I wish to express
our gratitude to Mr. Bereketli for his support.
Linda Gledhill, Area
Executive Director
American Diabetes Association
"Thank you very much
for sharing a signed copy of the poster you created for the 1997
National Conference on Women & HIV. Your handsome
work of art arrived in perfect condition. On behalf of the 3.9 Million
American citizens who constitute the people of Puerto Rico, I
acknowledge with gratitude your thoughtfulness and solidarity..."
Pedro Rossello
Governor, Puerto Rico
"Thank you for the
lovely -- and uplifting -- poster you delivered to my WLA office. And
another thank you for calling me "art lover" -- the nicest thing anyone
has ever said about me..."
Cindy Miscikowski,
11th District
Councilwoman, City of Los Angeles
"I greatly appreciate the
contribution of your exceptional talent and the support it generated at
the recent Gold Star event. We are extremely fortunate to have
individuals like yourself allied with us in a collective effort to make
our world a better place."
Michael S. Carona,
Sheriff-Coroner
County of Orange, California
"Thank you for
sending me a copy of your excellent acrylic canvass "Forever Free." As
a student of Lincoln, I appreciate your concept."
Cecil H. Underwood
Governor
West Virginia
Metin
with talented actress Leelee
Sobieski, who
received an Emmy nomination for "Joan of Arc" and had roles in major
motion pictures like Eyes Wide Shut, Deep Impact and Here on Earth.