Exhibition in Kalar honors late young artist, with proceeds going to charity

SULAYMANIYAH — An art exhibition in Kalar, the central city of the Garmian autonomous administration, is commemorating the life and creative work of Payam, a young girl with special needs who died last month. Her jewelry, accessories, and paintings are on display, with all proceeds to be donated to a family without a guardian, her father told 964media.

Payam lived with chronic heart disease and oxygen deficiency for 15 years before her death on April 19, 2025, following a sudden decline in health. “Payam was very passionate about making handmade items,” said her father, Hassan Mohammed. “She spent a lot of time on them and found real comfort in creating.”

The one-day exhibition includes a collection of her work, much of it designed for women — including bracelets, accessories, and paintings. All pieces are available for purchase by donation. “She had made so many things,” Mohammed said. “We wanted her work to go on helping others.”

He recalled that just days before she passed, Payam had begun painting a piece for her doctor but was unable to complete it. “She also started another piece where she wanted to collect her dreams and goals, but didn’t get the chance to finish it either,” he said.

The family plans to review any unsold items after the event to decide on next steps.