Kurdish Sculptor Preserves Culture Through Interactive Statues

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — In a fusion of timeless artistry and modern innovation, Kurdish sculptor Chenar Nizar is pioneering a new method for documenting and sharing the region's cultural heritage, ensuring the stories behind his statues are as enduring as the stone and metal from which they are forged. By integrating digital technology into his work, Nizar is not only immortalizing historical figures but also creating a dynamic, interactive bridge for a global audience to connect with Kurdish history.

Born in the Sarshaqam neighborhood of Sulaimani in 1986, Chenar Nizar's artistic journey began in his earliest years. 

In an interview with Kurdistan24, Nizar recounted his formative experiences, tracing his passion back to a primary school classroom. "I discovered my talent for sculpting during my childhood," he said. "Although the art class didn't receive much attention in primary school, I had special support from my late teacher, Mohammed Abdul Karim. He would encourage me to continue and would publish my drawings, which gave me a great deal of happiness and moral support." 

This early encouragement set the foundation for a career that would see him become one of the most significant young sculptors in Kurdistan today. His dedication continued as he balanced work and studies, an experience he considers his true entry into the art world, before honing his craft academically at the Institute of Fine Arts in Sulaimani.

Nizar’s body of work is driven by a dual purpose. 

He described his creations as falling into two distinct categories: one inspired by his own personal ideas and profound reflections on themes of nature, life, and poverty, and another that is dedicated to serving Kurdish history. This second category focuses on immortalizing the literary and artistic figures and symbolic leaders who have championed the Kurdish cause, creating a tangible record of their contributions for future generations.

His commitment to this historical mission is evident in his current endeavors.

Nizar explained to Kurdistan24 that he is now completing a statue of the great Kurdish poet Haji Qadir Koyi, which is set to be erected soon in the city of Koisanjaq. He reflected on the profound role that public art plays in shaping a society's identity and perception, noting how civilizations are often judged by their creative expressions.

"When any guest visits Sulaimani, the first thing that catches their eye is the architecture and the statues, as they reflect the city's interest in art and civilization," Nizar observed.

In what he described as a recent step that reflects the evolution of his craft, Nizar announced a groundbreaking integration of QR code technology into his new projects. By simply scanning a code placed at the base of a statue with a mobile device, visitors will be transported into a rich digital archive.

This feature provides comprehensive project details, including information about the figure depicted, the purpose of the artwork, the project's sponsor, and the sculptor's own biography. The QR code will also link to a gallery of photos and videos documenting the entire creative process. 

Crucially, this content will be accompanied by professional literary translations into several languages, a feature designed specifically with the aim of spreading Kurdish culture and enhancing its artistic presence on the global stage.