Artist breathes life into walls in Syria’s Raqqa
Painting on walls in the city of Raqqa, northern Syria – North Press
RAQQA, Syria (North press) – Hasan Kadro, 35, wakes up early in the morning and puts on his clothes, marked with vibrant oil colors that he frequently uses in his artwork. He then makes his way towards his studio in the city of Raqqa, northern Syria.
The artist recalls his early days with art in his childhood when he started creating small pencil drawings in his village of al-Akirshi, 20 km east of Raqqa.
He told North Press that his parents’ support started early when they saw his outstanding talent in his drawings.
After years, Kadro participated in several art and cultural exhibitions and events with his paintings, including the ‘Furat and Color Exhibition’ in its first season and the ‘Here is Raqqa Exhibition’.
He also volunteered in charity initiatives, notably the ‘Ray of Hope Exhibition’, which supports children with cancer.
Recently, his passion for art inspired him to paint murals on his village schools and voluntarily on the walls of Raqqa.
Kadro derives immense joy from painting murals, which have transformed neglected streets into captivating works of art. Through his murals, he adds a special charm to these places, breathing new life into them.
He expresses that he views a blank wall as a source of motivation. Instead of perceiving it as a dull surface, he sees it as an opportunity to make a positive impact on the surrounding area.
In October, the artist made the decision to establish his drawing room, seeking a calm place where he could bask in privacy and find an environment conducive to his art.
The Syrian painter feels that his drawing room, in a narrow alley, provides him with a launching pad towards new horizons, in addition to serving as a source of livelihood.
Kadro employs pencils, charcoal, and oil colors in his paintings. In addition to traditional canvases, he uses unconventional surfaces such as wood and shells. Furthermore, he utilizes his skills in decorative art.
Kadro’s talent and reputation have spread, capturing the attention of shop and restaurant owners, and even residents. As a result, people frequently visit his studio, which he named ‘Painter of Raqqa’, seeking his artwork to adorn their establishments.
Despite the growing demand for his art, Kadro remains committed to making a positive impact by willingly volunteering his time to make murals.
Recognizing the potential in producing artists, he has taken the initiative to organize training courses specifically designed for children, with the aim of nurturing their talents.
Kadro aspires to create more murals, hoping to leave his mark on every street in the city. His wish for Raqqa is to forever pulsate with beauty.