Iraqi art shines as the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities hosted a series of vibrant art exhibitions during the Arab Summit in Baghdad. Sponsored by Minister Ahmed Fakak Al-Badrani, these events brought together leading Iraqi visual artists to celebrate creativity and cultural pride.
Organized by the Department of Fine Arts, the exhibitions featured more than 150 works. The showcased art spanned painting, sculpture, ceramics, and caricature. Artists from various schools and styles contributed, highlighting the richness and diversity of Iraqi art.
General Director of the Fine Arts Department, artist Qasim Mohsen Hassan, explained that the exhibitions aligned with the summit’s spirit. They aimed to reflect the cultural identity of Iraq and its artistic legacy. Several commemorative exhibits honored legendary Iraqi artists, ensuring their legacies remain alive.
One notable exhibition paid tribute to artist Ibrahim Al-Abdali. He presented 25 paintings that portrayed historic and literary figures, including poet Badr Shakir Al-Sayyab, poetess Lami’a Abbas Amara, and King Faisal I. Sculptor Ittihad Karim was also honored posthumously through a collection of bronze statues representing his symbolic and influential work.
Iraqi art shines even beyond national borders. Artist Moatassem Al-Kubaisi, based in the UAE, held a solo exhibition expressing his personal artistic vision. Meanwhile, caricature artist Jabbar Saber Qader contributed a gallery filled with satirical and expressive pieces.
Ibrahim Al-Abdali expressed deep appreciation for his participation. He noted that the event reconnected him with his audience and fueled his hope for global recognition of Iraqi art. He praised young Iraqi talents and emphasized the importance of their role in pushing the artistic movement forward.
In another heartfelt moment, Haidar Karim, son of the late sculptor Ittihad Karim, viewed the exhibition as a tribute to his father’s lifelong artistic mission. He announced plans for a larger solo exhibition of his father’s work at the Iraqi Artists’ Syndicate.
Adding a contemporary flair, artist Raya Shanshal unveiled a 3D painting inspired by the Arab Summit. Created with acrylics, oils, and gold leaf, her piece contrasted a fragmented red map—symbolizing regional conflicts—with a radiant golden map of Iraq, symbolizing unity and determination.
Iraqi art shines in these exhibitions by celebrating resilience, history, and innovation. Through powerful expressions and bold techniques, artists showcased their commitment to unity and peace. The Ministry of Culture continues to support platforms like this to present Iraq’s artistic excellence on both regional and global stages.
