In the Sinjar region, a young Yazidi artist named Salem Suleiman expresses his hopes and those of his community through his paintings. He began his artistic journey in childhood and has since established himself as a prominent figure in his community. Salem stated, “For me, painting is akin to hope, as most of my works are oil paintings that I create as artistic expressions.” This highlights that he is not just an ordinary painter, but an accomplished artist with significant skills.
Each day, Salem dedicates 5-6 hours to his craft, demonstrating his commitment and strong interest in honing his abilities. Notably, the central theme of his artwork focuses on the Yazidi genocide, which positions him not only as a talented artist but also as an individual dedicated to sharing his people’s story with a global audience.
He further remarked, “At times, I paint individuals directly to witness their joy, and I present these paintings as gifts.” This underscores that his artistic efforts also serve to bring happiness to others. He also noted a substantial demand for his artwork, which has become a reliable source of income for him.
In conclusion, Salem emphasized the importance of supporting young and gifted Yazidis, stating that such support is crucial for them to pursue and achieve their future goals.