TRABZON

A large depiction (not a portrait, although this is based on a real person) of a young woman from Trabzon. Trabzon, located in north-eastern Turkey, has a rich historical and cultural heritage. In ancient times, it was a Greek colony known as Trapezus. Over the centuries, it witnessed the influence of various civilizations, including Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Trabzon's language history is diverse, with Greek and Turkish being the dominant languages. Regarding religion, Trabzon was historically a centre of Christianity and later converted to Islam under Ottoman rule. Today, it is known for its stunning architecture, including the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia of Trabzon, and its vibrant cultural traditions. It is the movement of people and the great changes that the region has experienced that motivated me to capture this fascinating likeness.