Shadowy Figures with Rounded Caps, 2015

Rasmi Khafaji (رسمي الخفاجي), born in Iraq in 1945, is a prominent contemporary Iraqi artist known for his evocative paintings that often reflect the cultural and historical complexities of his homeland. Khafaji’s work spans painting and mixed media, characterized by expressive brushwork and a vivid color palette, frequently drawing on themes of memory, displacement, and the enduring spirit of Iraqi heritage. His style blends figurative elements with abstract motifs, creating compositions that resonate with both personal narrative and broader social commentary.

Khafaji has exhibited widely in the Middle East and internationally, with notable institutional exhibitions including shows at the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris and the British Museum in London, where his works have contributed to broader surveys of modern Iraqi art. His paintings have also appeared in significant group exhibitions highlighting the evolution of contemporary art from Iraq, further establishing his reputation within the global art community.

At auction, Rasmi Khafaji’s works have been featured at major houses such as Christie’s and Bonhams, where they have attracted attention from collectors interested in Middle Eastern modernism. His paintings have achieved strong results, reflecting both the quality of his artistic output and the growing appreciation for Iraqi artists in the international market. Khafaji continues to be recognized for his contributions to the preservation and evolution of Iraqi visual culture.