Paul Batou, Mesopotamian Artist.

Although a 1982 pharmaceutical graduate from the University of Baghdad, his most enduring interests remained in the world of art. Paul did not bother applying for an art degree while in Baghdad since the art school was reserved only for Baathist party members with allegiances to Saddam’s government. While in pharmacy school, he joined the local University Gallery and start studying art under the instruction of various famous Iraqi artis for 4 years. Gaining inspiration and wisdom from his mentors, Paul held his first art show in Baghdad in 1980. This opened a door that would have his work featured in several local galleries. Later in 1982, Paul was forced to work as a pharmacist and a medic during the Iran-Iraq war for five years in the army front lines. When the war ended in 1989, he left Iraq with his family and moved to Athens as a refugee, eventually settling in Los Angeles. In the United States, he continues to paint, write poems, and eventually published his first book in 2007 called “My Last Thoughts About Iraq.” This book was a collection of reflections and throughs while enduring his time in Iraq. A country long encumbered with many years at war, heavy international sanctions, and home to the fall of the great Mesopotamian civilizations. His work has been featured in many galleries across the United States and the world.

In addition to solo shows, his works have been published in newspapers, magazines, and museum like the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA). Paul has published much of his art pieces in 2 volumes called “My Art, My People” in 2018 and 2021.

“My colors are united in one art piece reflecting the tone of the Earth, the language of the universe, and painful cries of those who are oppressed. On my canvas, the black, red, and white are in harmony just like my soul. I would love all people to achieve that kind of unity. Celebrate the art!”  ~Paul Batou

Paulbatou.com

Los Angeles, California