Abstract Figure with Symbols on Dark Ground, 1987

Rafa Nasiri (1940–2013) was a prominent Iraqi painter and printmaker, widely recognized for his pioneering role in modern Arab art. Born in Tikrit, Iraq, Nasiri studied painting at the Institute of Fine Arts in Baghdad before furthering his education at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, where he specialized in printmaking. His work is distinguished by a synthesis of Arabic calligraphy, abstract expressionism, and influences from both Eastern and Western artistic traditions. Nasiri’s innovative approach to printmaking and painting often explored themes of cultural identity, memory, and the written word, establishing him as a leading figure in the development of contemporary art in Iraq and the broader Arab world.

Nasiri’s art has been exhibited in major institutions, including the British Museum in London and the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, reflecting his international stature. He participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, and his works are held in significant public and private collections. At auction, his paintings and prints have appeared at major houses such as Christie’s and Bonhams, achieving notable results that underscore his enduring market appeal and the growing recognition of modern Iraqi art. Throughout his career, Nasiri also contributed as an educator and writer, influencing generations of artists in Iraq and beyond.