ABBAS RAAD JAKRA

In this interview, we delve into the world of Abbas Raad Jakra, who share his inspirations and unique perspectives.

courtesy of Abbas Raad Jakra

1. Introduce Yourself to the Casawi Community: What drives you? What's your artistic vision, and what sets you apart from the crowd?

My name is Abbas Raad Jakra I was born in Iraq on 04/22/1998. after I left my studies due to the difficult circumstances I was living in, which led to some psychological isolation, and the only treatment was the camera.

I went out to photograph in my popular, social city in southern Iraq, where my first motivation was to get out of the psychological suffering that I experienced due to leaving my studies.

What is your artistic vision? My artistic vision is to highlight the environment in which I live Informing the world about what this city contains and working to address some of the problems that occur, such as climate change, for example.

I agree with my camera. There is an equation consisting of... Light, time and things Note that time in a person's life is an irreplaceable capital And all things that the eye sees, whether fixed or moving And some light sources. Everything in the equation is available to everyone, but we have no control over it What distinguishes me here is my diligence and accumulated experience in stopping time at the moment when light falls on those objects at the appropriate time.

2. City Inspirations: How has your city influenced your artistic path? Share how its streets, culture, and energy have molded your work.

Because what exists in my city, Dhi Qar, is the origin of life and (water) is what formed the first civilization in the world, which was (Ur). It has clearly and effectively contributed to my life because its streets are still vibrant despite the political and historical conflicts that occurred in the past As long as there is life here, that is, there is matter... then there is energy... energy can be transformed into matter and vice versa. Every day I grow more here in my city... with this kind and amount of energy and matter.

3. Creative Process: What fuels your creativity? Whether it's a ritual, a muse, or a moment of clarity, we're keen to learn.

All scenes that signify life and humanity Land, water, light, palm trees, poverty, a person’s contemplation of what he believes in, sadness, a woman working, a ceremony of joy or sadness

4. City Lifestyle and Art: What characterizes clubbing and lifestyle in your city? How does your environment intersect with your art?

What distinguishes my city is the combination of the ancient land, the geography of its location, and the modernity of the present.

I learned something from the Euphrates River, which goes to infinity for the object of creativity, and even if it dries up, it draws lines on the ground for me symbolizing absurdity, so that I can get out of the usual framework.

I still see the palm trees here standing steadfast like a soldier whose weapon is the dove that he carries on his lofty head I don't talk to you much about the faces of the people here, they are the ones talking in my pictures.

5. Latest or Upcoming Projects: Give us a glimpse into your current endeavors and what lies ahead on your creative journey.

Documenting the impact of the Euphrates River on my community and people’s relationship with this great river and its composition, as it is an integral part of this community that forms the nucleus of the city.