Devrim Erbil
If there is one artist that is fascinated with Istanbul, that is Devrim Erbil. As an artist originally trained as a painter at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, he had the chance to be a student of the masters of painting in Turkey such as Bedri Rahmi Eyupoglu and Halil Dikmen in the 1950s. He continued his studies in Madrid, Barcelona, London and Paris. He became an associate professor in 1970 and a professor in 1981.
Bedri Rahmi Eyupoglu in his Studio in 1950s
He specialised in serigraphy and engraving at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University Graphics Department along with prominent Turkish artists such as Ali Teoman Germaner and Suleyman Sait Tekcan,
His works have become part of the permanent collections of many museums across the globe from Portugal to US.
Today, he uses a range of techniques from oil paints to mosaics.
But his fascination with Istanbul has led him to produce a wide range of serigraphy with the theme of Istanbul. Especially the range of colours he depicts Istanbul is a must see. The light and dark blues, vibrant reds, subtle greens, accentuated purples depict the different faces of the city we call our home. One can feel the chaos, grief, joy, nostalgia, melancholia and the paradoxes of the city through his accentuated colours and stylised drawings.
If you ever come across an original print by Devrim Erbil, consider purchasing one as it will be a reminder of this eternal city. Choose wisely as there is a wide range of options depicting different corners of the city from Galata tower to Haydarpasa Train Station and many ‘faces’ of the city from ‘chaos’ to ‘ecstasy’.
I am especially fascinated with the reds as I associate the vibrancy of the colour with Istanbul that is constantly recreating itself. But it is up to you decide which colour your Istanbul is.
Visit his website at https://www.devrimerbil.com/home-en/
