Nadia Flaih - Artist Bio
Nadia Flaih, the esteemed artist, radiating the essence of a visionary Iraqi artist with her determined gaze, capturing her commitment to artistic excellence
In a Few Words
Born In: Baghdad, Iraq (1967)
Lives In: Baghdad, Iraq
Background: Nadia Flaih, an Iraqi artist born in Baghdad in 1967, showcases a profound resistance to tyranny through her art. Flaih's work embodies a silent protest against the injustices endured by the Iraqi population, transforming crushing psychological experiences into beauty on her canvases. Flaih invites viewers to engage in a dialogue that bridges divides and illuminates humanity.
Style & Media: Nadia Flaih's artistic style is characterized by a poignant blend of graphic design and fine art techniques, showcasing a mastery of form and composition. Her utilization of varied materials, encompassing palm leaves, fibres, threads, and acrylic colours, mirrors a profoundly personal journey of self-discovery and fortitude amidst the framework of modern Iraqi society. Her exhibitions, ranging from solo showcases like "I" at the Bronze Art Gallery in Baghdad to collaborative displays at the "Contemporary Artists from Iraq" art exhibition, held at the Ras Al-Ain Gallery in Amman, showcase a consistent dedication to delving into the intricate tapestry of human experience. Her artistic narrative seamlessly navigates between local and international contexts, offering a nuanced exploration of the complexities that shape our lives.
Themes: Nadia Flaih's art encapsulates themes of identity, resilience, and societal struggle, reflecting her personal experiences and observations within Iraq. Through her work, she navigates the complexities of psychological and societal pressures, offering an evoking commentary on the human condition and the enduring quest for self-expression amidst adversity.
In a Few More Words
Nadia Flaih, a native of Baghdad, embodies a quiet resistance to tyranny in her art, resonating with the unvoiced struggles endured by her people. Born in 1967, Flaih's artistic journey exemplifies tenacity and creativity amidst difficult circumstances. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from the University of Baghdad and a Master of Fine Arts from Alexandria University in Egypt, Flaih has earned acclaim for her artistic prowess on both local and international stages. Her artistic path is marked by solo exhibitions held in various locations, ranging from the lively streets of Beirut to the cultural centers of London and Jordan. Each exhibition unveils layers of Flaih's artistic vision intertwined with the tangible echoes of her life experiences. From her first solo showcase at Madarat Gallery to her online exhibition, Flaih's work narrates a poignant tale of personal and collective struggles.
In her showcase titled "I," Flaih delves into the realms of identity and injustice, drawing inspiration from her personal encounters with arbitrary scrutiny. Through her canvases, she communicates silent protests, each brushstroke defiantly resisting oppression. The palm prints on her canvases hint at a shared consciousness, initiating a quiet conversation between the self and the perpetual other, while the fingerprints symbolize uniqueness. These artistic elements serve as symbols of resistance against the backdrop of surveillance and control. Through a deliberate choice of chromatic austerity, Flaih explores the dynamic interplay between black and white, injecting her pieces with the vibrancy of a third colour. Renowned for her bold and audacious installations, such as the provocative 'Saviour,' featuring fire hoses connected to blood bags set against a crater-like void, Flaih pushes boundaries and challenges perceptions. Critics, including Rahim Yusuf, laud's Flaih's work as a beacon of artistic excellence and social commentary, recognizing its power to provoke thought and inspire change.
In a world defined by injustice and oppression, Nadia Flaih's art emerges as a testament to endurance and originality. Through her canvases, she prompts us to witness the silent struggles of the marginalized, and discover solace in the beauty that flourishes amidst chaos.
Key Exhibitions
SOLO EXHIBITIONS
Second Solo Exhibition: Lebanese Artists Association, Beirut, Lebanon (2011)
Third Solo Exhibition: Al Nakheel Hall, Baghdad, Iraq, (2012)
Fourth Solo Exhibition: Hawar Gallery, Baghdad, Iraq (2014)
Fifth Solo Exhibition: Ruins, AlQarya Hall, Baghdad, Iraq (2018)
Sixth Solo Exhibition: Harvest, Jordanian Plastic Artists Association, Amman, Jordan (2019)
Online Solo Exhibition: Isolation Diaries, Ministry of Culture, Baghdad, Iraq (2020)
Eighth Solo Exhibition: (I), Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery, Amman, Jordan (2022)
Ninth Solo Exhibition (I), Bronze Art Gallery, Baghdad, Iraq (2022)
GROUP EXHIBITIONS
Baghdad Art Gallery, Ministry of Culture, Baghdad, Iraq (1991)Visual Scenes from Baghdad: Collaboration with two artists, Athar Hall, Baghdad, Iraq (2004)
Iraqi Papers: French Institute of Iraq, Baghdad, Iraq (2006)
12+1: Collaboration with two artists, Iraqi Plastic Artists Association, Baghdad, Iraq (2015)
Maps and Remnants: Collaboration with Aqeel Khareef, Iraqi Cultural Center, London, UK (2015)
