IRAQ: Art in troubled times, IV

Iraqi painter Hadi Mahood's works took a somber turn shortly after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion. At first he was hopeful about the future of his country. But as the violence increased, his abstract paintings took on a gloomy and sullen feel. The form of a fish often appears woven into his studies of mood, color, light and texture, as in this oil on canvas.

— Borzou Daragahi in Baghdad

Artist: Hadi Mahood / Courtesy: Afnan Gallery