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international
international international
of my work. Privacy is a crucial aspect of my Additionally, I’ve recently finished a large
artistic endeavors, as each painting I create is painting measuring 2 meters by 2 meters,
unique and never replicated. Notably, my name which the Iraqi government and the Ministry
A rising star in the art world and one of my artworks have become part of the of Culture plan to present as a gift to a United
cultural heritage of the Swiss city of Lausanne, a Nations office in Geneva.
Interview with place that holds deep significance for me. Your country of origin, Iraq, has experienced
Faik Al-Aboudi When we look at your art, we see a mix of numerous challenges in the last 40 years.
modernity and ancient times. What role does What role do you think art can play in the
painter and designer the historical Babylonian/Mesopotamian “new Iraq”?
heritage play in your art? Through my art and exhibitions, I aim to initiate
Hailing from a country with a civilization meaningful dialogues with audiences about the
He was born in Baghdad, and has lived in that I make appear ancient to help create the spanning millennia, I take pride in the ancient nature of my work and Iraq’s ancient history.
Switzerland since 1999. Faik is a talented image of a long-forgotten time”. culture that has contributed to humanity’s This inevitably leads to discussions about the
artist who has received several international knowledge of writing, music, art and law. The challenges and wars that Iraq has faced, as well
distinctions for his art work, among them the Could you tell us a little about your background rich history of these civilizations serves as an as the current political landscape. As an artist, I
Italian Arts Academy’s silver medal and as an Iraqi-Swiss artist? endless source of inspiration, influencing my see myself as an ambassador of love and peace
multiple appreciation certificates. I am an Iraqi-Swiss artist, specializing in art by seamlessly blending ancient themes for Iraq, tasked with clarifying perspectives
painting and design. In 1999, I sought refuge with a contemporary touch. It’s a beautiful and dispelling misconceptions perpetuated
As he often says himself, “I’m from the country in Switzerland, escaping the oppressive fusion of the old and the new, connecting the by biased or malicious media. I am optimistic
of the east, the country of sun, light, colors, regime of Saddam Hussein. Switzerland not past with the present. about Iraq’s recovery and its swift progress.
history and the stories of a thousand and one only provided a safe haven for me but also
nights. With a burning passion for exploration, welcomed my three children, Laith, Loubna, You obviously have a very busy life with several Finally, what are your future plans beyond the
I love paint and its smell. I love colors and and Louai. I am deeply grateful to this country, exhibits a year. Could you tell us a little more new projects you just mentioned?
I enjoy playing with it on the fabric of my and today, I proudly hold Swiss nationality. about your new projects? My wife and I have been discussing an exciting
paintings. Sometimes it’s a canvas, other times Indeed, I have successfully completed 32 idea, and I am eager to bring it to fruition—
paper and even wood. In my childhood I What in your long and impressive international solo art exhibitions held across various venturing into the world of fashion. Perhaps
stood tall in front of clay and stone sculptures career, with its multitude of shows, has countries, with Switzerland being a prominent in the near future, we will introduce this as
that were made by my Sumerian ancestors provided you with a huge particular and host. Currently, I am immersed in preparations another form of art that can enrich our lives.
which today provide me with the treasure of personal satisfaction? for a new exhibition scheduled for the sixth Thank you for this engaging conversation and
inspiration, ancient symbols of an extinct The global reach of my artistic paintings to month of 2024 at the Egyptian Opera House. the wonderful opportunity to share my story.
world still living today. I use layers of paint various countries attests to the profound impact
w w w. d i va i n t e r n at i o n a l . c h w w w. d i va i n t e r n at i o n a l . c h
