The Artist Had this to say about his art

The Iraq Revolution Exhibition, held at the Adhamiya Olympic Club in Baghdad in 1958, served as my induction to the world of art. The exhibition opened on 20 September, 1958, merely two months after the 14 July Revolution, which resulted in the overthrow of the Iraqi monarchy.
The artistic rendition of the violent bloodshed of that day laid bare for me the capacity for evil and vengeance rooted deeply within the human soul. This experience helped me, in turn, to formulate my personal concept of the purpose of art: that art is not for entertainment; that art instead ought to provoke the mind, stir thought, on the meaning and purpose of our human existence.
The paintings and sketches exhibited reflect my personal concept of the purpose of art.

Source:Evensi Website   link: https://www.evensi.com/shade-of-convolution/287205652

Ala Bashir’s art exhibition explores power of ‘eyes’ on memory

Article by Ailyn Agonia Published in Qatar Tribune website January 24,2019

Link: http://qatar-tribune.com/news-details/id/153160
DOHA
ART can transform society, so it has to be taken seriously, said renowned Iraqi sculptor and painter Ala Bashir at the opening of his exhibition titled ‘Shade of Convolution’ at the Al Markhiya Gallery of Doha Fire Station on Tuesday.
The artist noted for his portrayals of the human condition, unveiled more than 30 paintings in his latest art event in Doha. It is a continuation of his exhibition of 100 sketches titled ‘Salient Times’ which was opened at the Al Markhiya Gallery of Katara Cultural Village recently.
Speaking to the local media on the sidelines of the event, Bashir said that the prominence of eyes in many of his featured paintings has something to do with memories. The works, he added, reflects immediate reactions to an event.
“The eyes in the paintings are a metaphor for memory. And just like memory, when you see things again and again, you remember,” Bashir said.
Aside from exhibiting his works in different countries across the world, Bashir is also celebrated for his accomplishments as a plastic surgeon. He is not only a recipient of 2003 State Award for Fine Art, Iraq’s highest award, but has also been awarded the State Award for Medical Science, Iraq’s highest medical award, in 2002.
Such medical exposure, the artist said, has a huge impact on his art. He said, “Medicine has expanded my horizon. It helped me get closer to the physical existence of human beings.”
He also passionately talked about his views on art and the thriving art scene in Qatar. According to him, “Art is not easy. It is a very important instrument and tool for education. That’s why I said art is not for entertainment, it’s not a pastime. Art is something serious just like science.”