Journey of Light is a solo exhibition of recent works by London-based artist Özlem Sorlu Thompson whose vibrant paintings embody the Mediterranean sun of her native Turkey.
The centre piece in the show was directly inspired by a recent visit to Şeytan Sofrası, a volcanic hilltop on the Aegean coast known for a mythical lava pond that, according to legend, marks the spot where the devil left his footprint as he was expelled from heaven.
What started as a sketch on a small canvas grew into a polyptich and the artist’s largest painting to date. As each section blends into the next and layers of imaginary florals cover the dreamlike landscape, Thompson takes us on a visual journey that merges ancient folklore with hopes for the future.
Initially approaching flora and fauna, and exotic plants in particular, with scientific curiosity, Thompson’s art is led by intuition and an interest in the less tangible qualities to express her love for nature. Carrying the sun within them, her work has been exhibited internationally and is held in collections as far afield as Dubai and the Americas.
Journey of Light marks the tenth anniversary of Özlem Sorlu Thompson moving to North London and acts as a symbolic link between her motherland and her chosen home.