Turkish Delight

Turkey, a bridge between the East and the West, is a country of fabulous art, architecture, history and culture. And now, art and travel enthusiasts can see the nation through the works of Turkish artist Devrim Erbil. In association with The Turkish Consulate, gallery Percept presents the artist’s works in Mumbai for the very first time. The colours, compositions and technique of each artwork bring out Erbil’s talent as a painter, and each one is a ‘Turkish delight’.

Says the artist in the press note for the show, ‘Art is the kind of thing that allows people to get a sense of both beauty and happiness. Rather than painting a picture depicting happiness, I want to see my viewers’ eyes reflected in my works.’

5 Questions with the artist, Devrim Erbil

1. Artistic Motivations “The fundamental element of my art is human happiness and joy in life. In my country (Turkey) I am recognized as the poet of painting. I’d like my paintings to give happiness to people. My goal is exploring the boundaries and secrets of creativity.”
2. Inspirations “The nature is at the forefront of my inspiration. I would like to create passion and enthusiasm.  I’m more concerned with human sensitivity rather than human image. That is what I try to get across in my art.”
3. On the wall at home “I am affected not by a single artist by but great civilizations; Egyptian, Indian, Islamic, Chinese civilization and their works. Not only paintings. Carpets, rugs, calligraphy, stained glass, wood, stone carving and so on.”
4. Concerns that find a place in your art “I think that living through great pain is part of the fate of the world – wars, earthquakes, famine, poverty, oppression, violence, screams and tears. Peace remains just a dream. Even if it is a small one, maybe art is the only hope for peace. It’s the source of tolerance. These thoughts naturally affect my art. And I make pictures of happiness.”
5. If not an artist you would be…“When I do not work, days seem empty and meaningless. If I were not a painter, I would still look for a way to become an artist and believe me I would have found it.”

The exhibition is on display at Percept Art, Mumbai (11/12, Raghuvanshi Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel West) until May 29, 2015.