HALIM AL-KARIM (IRAQI / DUTCH B. 1963)
Hidden Theme 2/3
1995
inscribed Hidden Theme 2/3 1995 / Halim AlKarim (on the reverse)
lambda print on board
138 x 100 cm (54 1/4 x 39 1/3 in) (each)
(3)

PROVENANCE
Collection of Jason Lee
Saatchi collection
Acquired from the above by the present owner in 2008

EXHIBITION HISTORY
XVA gallery, Dubai, 2022
Unveiled: New Art from the Middle East, Saatchi Gallery, London, 30 January - 9 May 2009
Halim has also exhibited in the USA, Dubai, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Holland, France, Italy, England, Switzerland, Morrocco and China

LITERATURE
Unveiled: New Art From The Middle East, Saatchi Gallery, London, 2009, n.p. catalogue no. 07 (illustrated in colour)

An internationally established artist, Halim Al-Karim's practice has been influenced by his time spent hiding in the desert for three years, during the first Gulf War, to avoid the compulsory military service. He was looked after by Bedouin women who gave him food and taught him about their culture.

The Hidden series comprises of triptychs, featuring distorted faces, and artifacts. The Sumerian artifacts, which can be found in sitting behind glass in European museums, far from home, reminded the artist of visiting friends and family, imprisoned during Saddam’s regime.

Al-Karim has recently returned from the US to live in Dubai and is currently exhibiting at XVA Gallery, Dubai.