Dia Al Azzawi: Preserving Arab Heritage Through Art While in Exile
Almost fifty years after leaving Iraq, Dia Al Azzawi begins his day in London with Arabic newspapers, keeping connected to events in the Arab world, a habit that deeply influences his artwork. “I read them all. It’s a vital part of my routine,” he shares. “Some focus on politics, others on culture. Staying informed helps me feel connected, not like a visitor, when I return to the region.”
Insha’Allah, Al Azzawi will be conducting a masterclass in Dubai at the Museum of the Future, sharing insights on Arab art history while weaving in his personal journey. His creations offer a unique record of Arab identity, language, and history, alongside explorations of color and form.
His artistic style draws heavily from his background in archaeology, studied at Baghdad’s College of Arts, and his leadership at Iraq’s Antiquities Department. “Studying archaeology gave me a strong foundation in our culture and history,” he says. “It helped me find my own voice among peers.” Alongside this, he studied European art history, balancing both fields to enrich his perspective.
This combined knowledge rooted him in Mesopotamian legends and materials while fostering an understanding of composition and abstraction from European masters. The Epic of Gilgamesh, in particular, inspired over 30 of his works.
Al Azzawi’s early involvement in Baghdad’s art scene during the 1960s was marked by a desire to expand the dialogue beyond Iraqi identity to embrace Arab unity, especially in the face of political struggles like the Palestinian cause. His art from that time reflects this commitment, with pieces honoring Iraqi and Arab narratives.
He left Baghdad in 1976 against his family’s wishes, seeking broader horizons. Soon after, war and unrest made his return impossible. Living in London, he continued to engage deeply with regional events through his art, addressing tragedies such as the Sabra and Shatila massacre and later the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
Al Azzawi believes art is a way to express pain and take a stand rather than remain silent. His works invite viewers into a dialogue, emphasizing honesty in sharing one’s feelings.
In recent years, his art has continued to respond to current regional challenges, from conflicts affecting Mosul and Aleppo to protests in Iraq and the Gaza war.
He concludes, “I am convinced that all I create is part of our Arab culture and art.”
May Allah bless his efforts to keep our rich heritage alive through his creative vision.
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