Baghdad Studio

Local women artists and professionals in Baghdad will volunteer their time to teach practical visual art techniques using donated art materials, supplies and equipment provided by the IWAE. The IWAE, in association with Iraqi women's art organizations, will arrange and conduct classes and workshops encompassing drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpting, cloth embroidering, metal works, wood carving, and other art forms. Participants will learn general art principles in a relaxed atmosphere studio environment, conducive to artistic experimentation, discussion, and individual creative efforts. The Kahramana Art Association and Jamil Malak have been instrumental in establishing a studio in Baghdad for local women to gather, share ideas, and develop their creativity and freedom of expression through art.

The passion and commitment of artists, both amateur and professional, should not be underestimated. Memberships and linkages among art associations in the US, Iraq, and other countries will afford opportunities for Iraqi women to expand their freedom of thought and expression. The IWAE has initially established such linkagages amongthe Iraqi Women's Plastic Art Association (IWPAA), the Kahramana Art Association (KAA), and the Atlanta Artists Association (ACC). Through workshops, mentoring, Internet communication, and the IWAE "Virtual Gallery", US women artists, Iraqi women artists, and beneficiaries will share their trials and tribulations.