Dark Veil Over Colorful Bands

Salim Al Dabbagh (سليم الدباغ), born in Mosul, Iraq in 1941, is a prominent Iraqi artist recognized for his significant contributions to modern art in the Arab world. Al Dabbagh is best known for his abstract and geometric compositions, often rendered in painting and mixed media. His work draws inspiration from Mesopotamian heritage and Islamic art, exploring themes of identity, memory, and the interplay between tradition and modernity. Al Dabbagh’s minimalist aesthetic is characterized by bold forms and a restrained color palette, reflecting a deep engagement with both local and universal artistic languages.

Al Dabbagh has exhibited widely, with notable institutional exhibitions including shows at the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Doha and the Sharjah Art Museum. His works have also been featured in major group exhibitions highlighting Iraqi and Arab modernism. In the auction market, Al Dabbagh’s paintings have appeared at leading houses such as Christie’s and Bonhams, underscoring his status among collectors of Middle Eastern art. His enduring influence is evident in both his artistic output and his role as an educator, having taught at the Institute of Fine Arts in Baghdad for several decades. Salim Al Dabbagh remains a vital figure in the narrative of Iraqi and Arab contemporary art.