When artist Richard Bartle discovered the drawings of Siyah Kalem, or Black Pen, 15 years ago, it began an enduring fascination. He became captivated by these 14th century images which had traversed the borders of Iran, Turkey, China and Mongolia. 

The drawings, depicting demons, nomadic lifestyles and ancient cultures, inspired Bartle to spend long periods living and working in Istanbul. In this exhibition, Bartle, like many storytellers before him, explores the power of myth to span cultural boundaries, reframing the images through the visual symbolism he observed in the contemporary city.

Icki Cen Calgi Calan Demon © Richard Bartle 

Man Taken by Demon © Richard Bartle