Moon Over Cubist Cityscape, 1998

Nazir Nabaa (نذير نبعة), born in Damascus, Syria in 1938 and passing away in 2016, was a prominent Syrian painter recognized for his significant contributions to modern Arab art. Nabaa studied at the Faculty of Fine Arts in Cairo, graduating in 1961, and later continued his studies at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Rome. His work is characterized by a distinctive blend of figurative and abstract elements, often drawing inspiration from Syrian folklore, daily life, and the country’s rich cultural heritage. Nabaa’s paintings are celebrated for their vibrant color palettes and expressive forms, reflecting both personal and collective narratives.

Throughout his career, Nazir Nabaa held numerous solo and group exhibitions in Syria and internationally, including notable shows at the National Museum of Damascus and participation in the Alexandria Biennale. His works have been acquired by major institutions such as the Barjeel Art Foundation and are part of several important private and public collections. In the secondary market, Nabaa’s paintings have appeared at reputable auction houses, including Christie’s Dubai, where his works have achieved strong results, underscoring his standing in the Arab art market. Nabaa’s legacy endures as a leading figure in Syrian modernism, influencing generations of artists in the region.