Saadi Al-Lubban realizes lifelong dream with private gallery in Babil

BABIL — Artist Saadi Al-Lubban has inaugurated a private gallery in Babil showcasing over 150 pieces of art he has created since graduating from the Institute of Fine Arts in 1962. The event marked the realization of a lifelong dream and brought back memories of a pivotal moment in his career.

Al-Lubban, who credits his artistic development to the mentorship of his professors Faeq Hassan and Jawad Salim, invested around $50,000 to establish the gallery.

The gallery houses his entire artistic journey, featuring works he has preserved since his student days. Reflecting on his long-standing ambition, Al-Lubban remarked that financial constraints had delayed the project for decades.

The gallery encapsulates Al-Lubban’s dedication to his craft, displaying pieces that range from his earliest student works to his most recent creations.

“All my works are dear to my heart, and I cannot favor one painting over another. That’s why I have kept both the first painting I ever created and the most recent one I completed,” he shared with 964media.

Despite receiving offers, Al-Lubban has steadfastly refused to sell his works and encourages young artists to retain their art and establish personal galleries to document their journeys.

Local artists have praised Al-Lubban’s gallery as a landmark in Iraq’s art scene. Fellow artist Samir Youssef described him as one of the pioneers of the modern art movement in the country. “His love for his work is profound, treating each piece as a part of his family.”

“This gallery is a treasure for the art community, showcasing works of immense artistic value.”

He urged institutions, including the College of Fine Arts, the Artists Syndicate, and the Association of Visual Artists, to provide greater support for Al-Lubban’s initiative, recognizing its importance in preserving Iraq’s artistic heritage.