History
The Ebru craft is believed to date back to the 10th century, with roots in Uzbekistan. Over the next few hundred years, the Silk Road brought it to Turkey, where it evolved into a popular practice by the 16th century.
Photo: By Encyclopaedia Britannica (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 1842 edition) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Contemporary Ebru
Many modern-day artists continue to work in the marbling style, both to preserve the centuries-old art form and garner contemporary appreciation for it.
James Mouland
James Mouland is an English artist who learned the art of Ebru in Istanbul. Ranging from stunning works on paper to high-quality luxury items, his beautiful body of work mixes conventional patterns and marbled motifs with contemporary materials and objects.
Garip Ay
Turkish artist Garip Ay produces classic Ebru paintings with a twist. In addition to crafting traditional pieces, he also creates compositions that feature painted figures in the foreground and architectural elements in the background. By employing Ebru's marbled designs as backdrops, he creatively breathes new life into the age-old craft.
Watch Garip Ay use ebru art techniques to create a Vincent van Gogh-inspired painting:
My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by James Mouland and Garip Ay.
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