Haydar Alward (b.1986, Baghdad, Iraq) lives and works in Malmö, Sweden. He is trained as an architect, and received his masters degree in architecture from Lund’s University in 2010. In his art practice, Alward uses digital design tools to explore and deconstruct Arabic calligraphy. He has exhibited at Malmö Konsthall, in conjunction with Michael Rakowitz’ exhibition The Invisible Enemy Should not Exist.
Having practiced as an architect for 10 years, Haydar began exploring paintings during a parental leave with his first born in 2016. Arabic calligraphy was a recurring theme, and the digital design tools he used as an architect seemed to offer new ways to shape and explore the geometries of Arabic letters.
Haydar’s explorations are informed by elements of Nordic design, Arabic calligraphy and of the diaspora experience – of only ever seeing Arabic words advertising fast food and convenience stores. Calligraphy has been a way for Haydar to process and reevaluate a dual heritage – both artistic and familial.
From his artwork:
