From Kurdistan to DC: The Artistic Journey of Falah Omar, a Kurdish Artist
Falah Omar’s journey as an artist, from his beginnings in middle school to his current status as an established professional, is truly inspiring. His dedication and commitment to the world of art, coupled with his love for his homeland and its people, are reflected in his stunning and evocative works.
Omar’s ability to convey the tragedies and events of his past through his art is a testament to his talent and creativity, as well as his desire to preserve the memory of his experiences. His success in exhibiting his work across the world, including in Arab countries, Asia and the United States, is a testament to the universal appeal of his art.
As an art teacher and academic professional, Omar continues to inspire others and contribute to the world of art. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of following one’s passion, and the impact that art can have on both individuals and society as a whole. Falah Omar’s early passion for art paved the way for his successful career as an artist. His interest in the world’s artistic works started during his middle school years and blossomed into a dedicated pursuit of the arts at the Institute of Fine Arts. During his time there, he honed his skills in portraits, models, and various styles that are considered academic work.
This allowed him to participate in all the institute’s exhibitions each year, showcasing his talent and creativity to a wider audience. In 1985, Falah Omar’s work was recognized when he held a special exhibition in the new art hall of Kirkuk city alongside fellow artists Ali Sadiq and Ghazi Muhammad. His participation in all the exhibitions of Kurdish artists in Sulaimaniyah, Erbil, and Dhok cities cemented his reputation as a talented artist in the region.
It was evident that his unique style and creative vision were gaining recognition. Falah Omar’s passion for art continued to thrive as he explored different forms and styles. His work reflects a deep understanding of the cultural and historical background of the places he grew up in, especially Kirkuk, Qala, Gourbaghi, and Rahim. Through his paintings, he captures the emotions, events, and disasters that occurred in those places with great attention to detail.
His use of cats, Zaqka, old men, and even scary land cruisers in his works adds a unique element that captivates the viewer’s attention. His talent and dedication to the arts allowed him to participate in various exhibitions and activities, including those in Erbil, Syria, and the United States of America.
As an art teacher and academic professional in the US, he continues to draw inspiration from the world around him, creating works that showcase his love for the Kurdish clement and the pain he sees daily in his canals. Falah Omar’s work is a testament to his artistic vision and ability to create pieces that inspire and capture the essence of his surroundings.
Falah Omar’s artistic journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a dedication to showcasing the richness of Kurdish culture through his works. His paintings are not just an expression of his creativity but also a reflection of his experiences and observations of the world around him. The subjects of his art are varied, ranging from the narrow streets of Kirkuk to the wider world of Kostav Klimet, but they all share a common thread of storytelling and a deep sense of emotion.
Omar’s ability to evoke such strong feelings in his audience is a testament to his skill as an artist. He uses a variety of mediums, including colored and acrylic materials, to create his works, which are always rich in detail and color. In many ways, his paintings are a tribute to the beauty of his homeland, but they also speak to the pain that he sees daily in his canals. Since moving to the United States of America, Omar has continued to create stunning works of art that showcase the best of Kurdish culture. As an art teacher and an academic professional, he has imparted his knowledge and skills to the next generation of artists, ensuring that his legacy will continue for many years to come.
The fact that his work has been exhibited in Arab countries, Asia, and the United States is a testament to its universal appeal. His paintings have taken a special place in the hearts of many people around the world, and it is easy to see why. With his unique style and a deep understanding of the human experience, Falah Omar has established himself as one of the most talented artists of his generation.
— With assistance from Kurdish language writer Ashti Shegani and translated by Davan Y Khalil
