As part of #20CC, last year we joined forces with Fine Acts to spark a global dialogue on what better sharing looks like in action. Our #BetterSharing collection of illustrations was the result — we gathered insights from 12 prominent open advocates around the world and tasked 12 renowned artists who embrace openness with transforming these perspectives into captivating visual pieces available under a CC license.

“Open Palms, Not Clutching Fists” by Burcu Köleli for Creative Commons & Fine Acts is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Each month throughout 2023, we will be spotlighting a different CC-licensed illustration from the collection on our social media headers and the CC blog. For January, we’re excited to showcase “Open Palms, Not Clutching Fists” by illustrator and visual artist, Burcu Köleli. The piece, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, was inspired by a quote from Maria Popova, founder and editor of The Marginalian (formerly Brain Pickings): 

“Never forget that an open palm is a greater platform of power than a clutching fist.” 

Meet the artist:

Photo courtesy of Burcu Köleli

Burcu Köleli is a passionate intersectional environmentalist and feminist. Her work, which includes digital illustrations and gouache paintings, is driven by activism, human relationships, and daily life. Believing in the power of art to create change, Burcu uses her talents to communicate social and environmental issues. She aims to create inclusive artwork that celebrates nature and women, while spreading joy.

Follow Burcu on Instagram: @burcukoleli
Follow Burcu on Twitter: @burcukoleli

The full #BetterSharing collection is available on TheGreats.co to be enjoyed, used and adapted, and then shared again, by anyone, forever. View the full collection >>