Ayad Fadel

Lives and works in Houston, TX, USA

Artist statement

Ayad Fadel Local Artist and Art Instructor Born in Baghdad, Iraq, Ayad Fadel demonstrated artistic talent early in life. With the encouragement of his uncle, a renowned artist, Fadel began studying painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Baghdad. Recognizing the difficulty in making a living that is inherent to the career of an artist, he also studied and completed his diploma of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. For Fadel, painting is an ideal means to express the small truths of life as well as deeper aspects of the human experience. His creative process is based on an authentic engagement with others and so in Iraq he continuously sought public spaces to paint portraits as well as express the daily life and traditions of his community through his art. The war in Iraq, however, disrupted this life and the economy for many, making normal existence and artistic expression near impossible. As was the case for many Iraqis, Fadel and his immediate family were forced to leave Iraq. They sought refuge in Jordan in 2004 where he was honored with an exhibition through the Jordanian Ministry of Culture. A few years later, they were granted refugee status in the United States and they have lived in Houston, Texas since 2008. Fadel has also furthered his artistic and professional education in the United States. He has continued his studies at Houston Community College as well as the Glassell School of Art in Houston. Ayad Fadel’s work, both abstract and figurative, uncovers...

Artwork