We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Paul Batou a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Paul, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

since high school

Paul, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am originally from Iraq and belong to indigenous people of that land, Assyrian we speak Aramaic or modern Assyrian, we live like refugee in our homeland which ravaged by war and ethnic cleansing of our people. i was rejected from art school because it was closed to government ruled party members, but i managed to learn art and how to produce pieces and that journey was through struggle, in my art i reflect and celebrate my people and culture. also i celebrate humanity searching for love, peace and harmony. i have collectors from all around the world who are interested in Mesopotamia and art of Assyria which was the first civilization on earth. I am a pharmacy graduate and work as a pharmacist here in Los Angeles in addition i create art and had many successful shows.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

that i can share my story and struggle through colors to a people who loves art

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

the goal is to be discovered in order to share my story and a story my people.

Contact Info:

• Website: paulbatou.com
• Instagram: @paulbatou
• Facebook: @paulbatou