Until my first novel was released in 2004, I was not aware of the diverse Iraqi artists who were part of my community. I had mostly lived and worked with non-Iraqi Americans. Yet in the process of promoting the book, I was introduced to a wonderful group of creative and intellectual men and women of Iraqi descent. Their work inspired me to join in the founding of the Iraqi Artists Association (IAA), a nonprofit organization. We wanted to broaden appreciation for Iraq’s rich history and culture and foster understanding between East and West. With so many social, political, and religious issues regarding Iraq and Iraqis in the news, we felt it had become absolutely essential to address the neglected though highly compelling issues of art and education.

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MCR -FEATURES - Iraqi Artists (Cover & PP 34-40).PDF