Born in 1987 in Baghdad, Reda Alyasari is an Iraqi illustrator, calligrapher, and visual artist who now resides in Finland. Though passionate about the arts from a young age, Alyasari was unable to attend a Fine Arts college. Instead, he devoted himself to practicing and refining his craft independently, driven by his interest to continue to pursue this path.

 

In 2016, Reda Alyasari showcased his work in his first exhibition at the Taideruukki Gallery in Finland, marking the beginning of a successful career. This was followed by a series of solo and group exhibitions, including notable shows in Kouvola and Helsinki. His art also gained international recognition through a collective exhibition in Kingston, London, where he joined a diverse group of Iraqi and Arab artists from around the globe.

 

Reda Alyasari’s work is deeply rooted in portraying the Middle East through a distinctive lens. Wanting to expand the notions of culture and identity, he merges Arabic calligraphy with Western artistic influences, creating a style that is both unique and speaks of two opposing forces. Central to his work are human figures and traditional calligraphy, which he uses to explore and narrate complex relationships between male and female figures. His use of contrasted colors and detailed illustrations brings these narratives to life, revealing layers of nationality and cultural richness.

 

In addition to his artistic endeavors, Reda Alyasari is committed to humanitarian causes. His work often speaks upon various social issues. He combines politics with his illustrations, highlighting various injustices that happen on the daily with no voices to uplift them. Not only does he express his activism through his art, but has also actively volunteered with organizations such as the Red Cross and Saaga Culture, where he has contributed to efforts aimed at supporting refugees and addressing their needs. His dual focus on art and humanitarian work reflects his dedication to both his cultural heritage and global community.