From the ancient Babylonian society to today, artists have been an important and integral part of the societies in the part of the world that is currently called Iraq. As one of the oldest civilizations on earth, some of the most ancient images of human civilization have come from this land. Iraqi artists have historically viewed themselves as bearers of culture, and many currently view themselves as a voice for their people.

As an Iraqi refugee artist said, “What inspires me as an artist is my love for the Iraqi people. From that love affair, I’ve learned to love what is human…….The artist takes upon themselves the responsibility of giving an identity to the human race as a whole. Every artist, including myself, takes the role of shaping the experiences of the human race and serving them in a way that nobody else can…..”

Although the Palestinian people and the artists in their society have continually been made refugees, these artists continue to search for a sense of home and permanency through their art.

Throughout all of these transgressions there are many ways that the people of Palestine keep their souls alive. From the most simple signs of resistance like children flying kites during curfew, filling the sky with the colors of Palestine, to the artists of Palestine keeping their artwork growing, their colors reflecting the land, the people, and the resistance, Palestine and her people stay alive.