Now on display in the Susan Hensel Window Gallery are fifteen paintings by Iraqi artists and are presented to you. By Iraqi American Reconciliation Project (IARP). A Minneapolis-based non-profit. This exhibition which features paintings on raw canvases tells a story about a group of artists who began sending their paintings to Minnesota. In the hopes of being heard and understood.

In 2005, a group of trained, professional artists in Najaf and Karbala. Iraq who were affiliated with IARP’s sister program, the Muslim Peace Maker’s team sent their artwork to IARP rolled in the suitcases of those participating in peacemaking exchanges between the U.S. and Iraq. IARP had the loose canvas paintings stretched and framed and then displayed them in coffee shops, churches and galleries. Over the years these paintings have been shown in over fifty galleries and public spaces in Minneapolis. IARP’s art program has greatly expanded to include a documentary video series, bookmaking program as well as several curated exhibits that have toured the country. As the ten-year anniversary of the Iraqi, Art Program approaches we believe that it is only appropriate to highlight some of these paintings and to take a look back at the messages of peace and understanding that they inspired.

To learn more about the artwork and Iraqi American Art Project please visit:

Iraqi American Reconciliation Project
Iraqi Art Project

Contact:
info@reconciliationproject.org
952-545-9981