© 2006 Suad al-Attar

 

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Word into art

Suad al-Attar (Iraq-UK), Inspiration from a poem, hand coloured soft-ground etching and aquatint artist's proof

This blue-tinted etching by Suad al-Attar is typical of her work. The dreamy figural imagery includes two figures, the upright one wearing an elaborate headdress, and a bird in the centre. A verse from a poem by the early Arab poet Layla bint Lukayz, is inscribed at the base of the painting:

'Sorrow alighted in my heart, and I melted
Even as lead melts when engulfed by flame.
Wherefore, O eyes, pour forth thy tears,
Nor stint your flow...
Nor tire, O heart
At being tried with sorrow.'
(Translated by Suheil Bushrui, Attar 2004: 130, Al Madad Foundation)

Suad al-Attar has had a prolific career. Throughout she has been inspired by her Arab Iraqi heritage: stories such as The Epic of Gilgamesh and ancient and contemporary poetry. As well as mystical figures she has created fantastical landscapes and city views.