Artist’s Statement

Ali Alassadi is a self-taught Iraqi-American artist based in Seattle, whose work combines Arabic calligraphy with evocative, modern narratives that bridge cultural and personal themes. Ali’s journey began in Iraq, where art became a private, vital outlet for his imagination, allowing him to explore his world and himself freely. Moving to the U.S. at 24 marked a profound shift in his life, blending the challenges of reinvention with his unwavering devotion to creative expression.

Seattle’s natural beauty and inclusive artistic community reignited Ali’s commitment to art, and in 2020, he returned to painting as a refuge during difficult times. Self-taught in Arabic calligraphy, he embraced it as a connection to his heritage and an expression of identity that resists convention. Through his work, Ali explores the beauty of duality—light and shadow, history and the present, strength and vulnerability. Each piece invites viewers to enter a space where cultural tradition meets personal authenticity and courage.

In addition to his paintings, Ali conducts Arabic calligraphy workshops, encouraging others to explore their own unique stories and perspectives. His art is more than visual; it’s a bridge that fosters connection and understanding, celebrating resilience and the courage to live one’s truth.