Azza Haidar

Azza Haidar is a Syrian painter and fashion designer who was born in Damascus, where she still lives today. She studied there at the Esmod International Fashion University and the Russian Cultural Centre.

Haidar’s art is inspired by nature, taking the form of delicate, fragile examples of the natural world, brought to life in watercolours, from a single, delicately crafted flower in a vase to blossom caught on a breeze and silhouetted trees swaying in the wind. Often understated, in muted hues, her pieces sometimes incorporate a flash of colour, perhaps vibrant yellow petals or, more ominously, splashes of red, blood like, reminding us that she has sought solace in nature, as well as finding it a source of inspiration, in times of conflict.

Commenting on her practice, Haidar has said: “Peace in nature, where to go for a safer and peaceful world. My paintings, inspired by nature, represent a kind of meditation, of forgetfulness and escape from reality into a calmer and more peaceful world. Nature becomes like a humanitarian case to go to discover what’s beyond. The transparent watercolours serve as a balance between spontaneity and thinking.”

Haidar has exhibited her work in several solo exhibitions, including, most recently, events at: Ishtar Gallery, Damascus (2021); George Kamel Gallery, Damascus (2019); 392rmeil393 Gallery, Beirut (2018); and Albal Gallery, Damascus (2006).

She has also participated in a number of group shows, most recently events at: Aida Cherfan Gallery, Beirut (2024); Zahira Hospital Red Crescent Project (2024); Artscoops Relief Auction (2023); Artscoops Auction (2022); International Art Show, German Cultural Centre, Jounieh, Lebanon (2017); SOS Art Liban, Unesco Palace, Beirut (2016); JABAL (Jeunes Artistes des Beaux-Arts du Liban) Exhibition, Saint Georges Hotel, Beirut (2016); Beirut International Art Show, St Joseph la Crypte, Beirut (2016); Jabal Exhibition, St Georges Hotel, Beirut (2016); Erguvan Exhibition, Marmara Museum, Istanbul (2015); Al Markhiya Gallery Summer Collection, Katara Cultural Village, Qatar (2014); Al Rewak Gallery, Syria - Second Prize, Youth Competition (2013); and Petro-Canada Youth Competition (2009).