Teen draws graphic novel recording Devon life

Aaban Aslam sketched ideas for chapters of his graphic novel after being inspired by the photographs at the Beaford Arts archive

A 17-year-old from Barnstaple has had a graphic novel commissioned by a Devon arts organisation.

Aaban Aslam was doing work experience in Beaford Arts' photographic archive when staff realised he had a talent for drawing.

Beaford has paid him to create the first chapter of The Widening Gyre as a pilot, and has published it on its website.

The adventure story is inspired by the North Devon landscape and folklore, in addition to the photographic work of James Ravillious and the Oscar-winning cinematographer Sir Roger Deakins, whose early works are in Beaford's collection.

The cover of The Widening Gyre by Aaban and text layout by Tom Brayley

Aaban said: "I was thrilled. As soon as I got home, I started sketching ideas and came up with a story."

Beaford Arts has a history of commissioning young artists who go on to have successful careers.

Taking photos of rural North Devon life for their archive was how both James Ravillious and Roger Deakins started out.

Ravilious undertook a 17-year project documenting rural life for the organisation.

Photographs in the archive helped Aaban develop the details for his own characters, from their faces and expressions to the clothes they wear.

Jo Curzon and Her Flock - Dolton, 1982. This documentary photograph was taken by James Ravilious for the Beaford Archive, Beaford Arts

When asked how he felt about following the same path as his heroes, Aaban said: "I'm honoured, intimidated and slightly terrified all at the same time.

"Roger Deakins is my favourite cinematographer of all time."

When Aaban started his work experience in Year 10, he was not doing GCSE art.

The education team at Beaford spoke to the art teacher at his college and he submitted his work for the graphic novel as coursework and completed the course in just four months, gaining top marks.

Beaford Arts director Mark Wallace said when people came for work experience staff asked them what they wanted to be after school.

Aaban was very clear he wanted to work for Marvel Comics.

After looking at his portfolio, Mr Wallace said: "It's astonishing work... His sketches really capture North Devon in graphic novel form.

"We realised there was an opportunity there."

Aaban still needs to finish his A-Levels.

He has been continuing to work on the graphic novel along with his studies.

His father Mohammad Aslam Razzaq said: "We are very proud of him... It's great he takes inspiration from such giants of the art world."

Aaban's finished sketches for the book.

Staff at Beaford Arts are looking for a publisher to work with them on the book when it is complete.

People can read the first chapter Beaford's website for free.

The organisation also plans to hold an exhibition of his work next year, once a new cultural hub it is developing with other partners in Barnstaple opens to the public.