Haidar Abbas

Haidar Abbas, born in 1966 in Babylon, Iraq, is a distinguished visual artist specializing in painting and sculpture. A graduate of the Institute of Fine Arts in Baghdad in 1988, Abbas has developed a unique artistic voice that intertwines abstraction and representation, often exploring themes of migration and human resilience. His works are characterized by a profound engagement with light, shadow, and the natural world, reflecting his deep connection to his homeland.

Abbas has held over ten solo exhibitions across the globe, including notable shows in Baghdad, Jordan, Austria, and Australia. In 2012, he showcased his work at the Sydney Opera House, one of Australia's most iconic venues. His art has been acquired by collectors worldwide, and he has received more than twenty awards for his contributions to painting. In recognition of his artistic achievements and commitment to peace, Abbas was appointed as a Peace Ambassador by an international organization.

Since relocating to Australia in 2005, Abbas has continued to enrich the art scene, participating in numerous group exhibitions and earning accolades for his work. In 2019, he and his daughter, Maryam, both received awards at the Liverpool Art Society exhibition in Sydney. His dedication to portraying the experiences of migrants and refugees has been a recurring theme, with works like his sculptural piece featuring a boat carrying human-like fish symbolizing the journey of displaced individuals. Abbas's art serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of identity and belonging in a globalized world.