Bulgarian artist incorporates Istanbul in sculpture

By Mehmet Kara

ISTANBUL (AA) - A Bulgarian artist has created a sculpture incorporating Istanbul and its landmarks.

Maria Kiliclioglu has lived in Istanbul for 41 years. Her sculpture represents her love for the iconic city with miniature models of the Maiden’s Tower, Hagia Sophia, and Galata Tower spread across the intricate folds of her work of art; a life-sized woman with long tresses.

“I am a lucky artist as I came to Istanbul very early on,” Kiliclioglu said in an interview with Anadolu Agency.

"I grew up here, studied here, existed here," she said.

Kiliclioglu says her sculpture represents life.

"This city is full of secrets and myths. It is a rich city and symbolic," she said.

Turkish poet Orhan Veli inspired her the most, Kiliclioglu said.

"I'm listening to Istanbul with my eyes closed,” she said, reciting a verse from Veli’s famous poem.

“There is a maternal side to the city,” Kiliclioglu said.

“It hugs people and animals. But it also takes revenge,” she said.

*Writing by Erdogan Cagatay Zontur