Barbara Walters chats with Forward Syria
Swaying between art and seduction
Discussing monetary policy with the man in charge
Where the earth screams in horror
12/02/2010 - Issue 46
Iraqi artist Saadi Al-Kaabi exhibits at Rafia Gallery
by Hamzeh Abu-Fakher
With over 50 years experience in the arts and the recipient of many international biennale awards (Belgium, Dacca, Kuwait, and France), Al-Kaabi’s works pay homage to Iraq’s heritage.
The artist merges elements of different ancient Iraqi civilizations into his pieces by layering components on canvas, such as the background calligraphy that looks sculpted, empty figures staring aimlessly, and a palette of ethereal natural autumn watercolors (different shades of teal, indigo, autumn brown, and lilac). Al-Kaabi researched his Mesopotamian artistic roots, creating artworks that are distinctly Iraqi.
“Iraq has seven cultures: Sumerian, Babylonian, Assyrian, Acadian, Hadari, Islamic and the current global one. This prevails in the lives of any person living in Iraq; you cannot close your eyes and block your ears when you walk down the streets,” said Al-Kaabi.
He added, “The Sumerian culture inspires emotions, the Assyrians are renowned for their complex techniques, calligraphy comes from Islam, diversity from this modern era, and magic from the Babylonians. Looking at a Babylonian god, we see big eyes looking towards the horizon; even if you look at them they will not look at you. This is magic. In my artworks, I reflect the reverse of that by removing the eyes, wherever you go you find their eyes chasing you.”
The surfaces of Al-Kaabi’s paintings are seamless, a refreshingly new style of painting appearing as if colored with ‘magic dust,’ a feeling accentuated by the semi-chromatic color palettes. On the other hand, his technique reflects elements of other forms of arts, like sculpting, which is evident by the calligraphy in the background of many of his artworks.
“Sculpting is an Assyrian theme, it is what distinguishes their best artworks, and that inspired me to incorporate it in my works,” commented Al-Kaabi.
Al-Kaabi has contributed greatly to the progress of the contemporary art movement in Iraq by gaining international exposure and leading development efforts.
Currently retired and able to devote his time to his artworks, his pace of development seems to transcend the pace of his initial decades.
According to Al-Kaabi, “Development stems from diversity of knowledge; the more artworks you’ve seen, and the more styles you’ve generally experienced, the more your overall experience improves. For instance, being a jury member in numerous art competitions and biennales have affected me more than I ever thought was possible.”
