(1954 – 2015)
Born in Baghdad, Iraq, in 1954, the esteemed artist Wasma Al-Agha graced the world with her creative spirit. As the wife of fellow artist Mahoud Ahmed, she embarked on a lifelong journey that left an indelible mark on the realm of Iraqi art.
Her early years were devoted to education; in Baghdad, she studied for her elementary, middle, and high school diplomas in the 1960s and 1970s. Wasma showcased her early talent at her first solo exhibition at the age of fourteen, and the Director of Education in Al-Karkh District recognized her for it by awarding her the first school medal.
In 1975, Wasmaa pursued design studies at a London institute in the United Kingdom, earning accolades for planning and colors during her high school studies in the vibrant city. Her artistic journey continued as she participated in the exhibition of the National Museum of Modern Art in Baghdad in 1976, displaying her evolving prowess.
She worked for Baghdad Television from 1976 to 1980 as an illustrator and interior designer, combining her artistic vision with practicality. She continued her formal studies at the University of Baghdad’s Academy of Fine Arts, where she received a Bachelor’s degree in 1981, not content to stop at practical experience alone. Her position as a Professor at the Institute of Fine Arts in Baghdad from 1981 to 1990 was made possible by this academic success.
Wasma returned to school in 1985, this time concentrating on the Philosophy of Islamic Photography Art for her master’s degree. Her dedication to delving into the more profound aspects of her craft was evident in her scholarly pursuit.
Her participation in the Baghdad International Biennale in 1988 showcased her art on an international stage, solidifying her presence in the global artistic community. Wasmaa’s thirst for knowledge persisted, leading her to attain a Ph.D. in Philosophy of Art History from the Academy of Fine Arts at the University of Baghdad in 1996.
A prolific writer, she authored several books, including “Genesis and its Plastic and Aesthetic Elements in Al-Wasiti’s Miniatures” in 2000, offering insights into the intricate world of miniature art. In 2007, she penned “Abstract Realism,” demonstrating not only her artistic prowess but also her ability to articulate the philosophical underpinnings of her craft.
Wasmaa Al-Agha’s impact extended beyond Iraq; she held a solo exhibition titled “Oasis of Love” at Broadway Gallery in Amman, Jordan, in 2008. Her literary contributions continued with books such as “The Structure of Genesis in the Miniatures of the Hariri Maqamat by Al-Mazouq Al-Wasiti” and “Wasmaa Al-Agha: Artist from the Rasheed Era,” both published in 2012 by Dar Al-Adeeb in Amman.
On May 9, 2015, the world bid farewell to this visionary artist, who left behind a legacy of artistic brilliance, intellectual exploration, and a profound impact on the cultural landscape of Iraq.
Source: Ibrahimi Collection
Images source: Iraqi Art