THE AGE OF DECADENCE
Series (2018-2019) # Baghdad, Iraq
ARTIST STATEMENT
IN A SOCIETY THAT DICTATES WHAT IS ALLOWED AND WHAT IS NOT, FORBIDDEN FRUIT BECOMES A CLOSELY HELD SECRET
“Decadence” refers to the era in which I created this series of paintings. Not to the figures depicted. It was a time when the mafia controlled the political system, embezzlement was common, and the government generally neglected the state of society.
These paintings tell the tale of desires and thoughts I have never shared with anyone.
Canvases of both fear and joy, they try to express a life lived during wartime, and the coalition-led invasion and occupation of my country. They tell the story of my unconscious being. My self-deceptions. Deep thoughts that have settled in my soul.
Such daydreaming is an escape from a harsh life.
Where words fail, color takes over. Allowing me to express society’s taboos. Beautiful women I wish I could have touched. Lovers and desired ones. Memorable events.
With magic, I try to give my heroes—these beautiful women—life. Their strong character and inner strength are obvious. They are more powerful than men, who have virtually vanished. Even the angels are women.
I feel my spirit cleansed. My very being.
Karim Khalil • Photo by: Khdeir Al-Zaiedy
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Acrylic & charcoal on linen canvas, 83”x70”
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Acrylic & charcoal on linen canvas, 69”x83”
THE AGE OF DECADENCE
Women dominate this series of paintings by Iraqi artist Karim Khalil. Beautiful, strong (almost ferocious) women who defy cultural taboos. Their gaze is direct, sexualized, confrontational. They are Karim’s self-declared heroes. The series reflects his very personal reaction to the widespread corruption that followed the U.S. invasion and occupation of his country. And to the trauma of the earlier Iran-Iraq War. Karim’s comments on individual paintings provide insight into Iraqi culture. What he has to say about dogs, bulls, and fish may surprise you. ‘Cathartic’ is how Karim describes creating this series. I wish to thank Salam Al-Rawi, a Brooklyn friend from years gone by, for introducing me to Karim’s amazing artwork, and acting as the cultural go-between.
–Walter L. Meyer