Louay Kayali | Syrian 1938-1978
An eminent Syrian artist hailing from Aleppo, seamlessly blended realism, expressionism, and social commentary in his work. Mastering oil on wood and pencil on paper, Kayali's art is a testament to simplicity in form and color.
Recipient of a scholarship from the Ministry of Education, Kayali furthered his artistic prowess at the Accademia de Belle Arti in Rome. His camaraderie with fellow artist Fateh Modarres flourished, culminating in joint exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale in 1960.
Returning to Syria, Kayali contributed to the Faculty of Fine Arts at Damascus University and earned acclaim in the mid-1960s. However, ominous signs of depression surfaced, manifesting in his poignant charcoal paintings. In a quest for solace, he sought refuge in Rome in 1977, briefly reigniting his artistic fervor before returning to the UK.
Kayali's lifetime exhibitions spanned Rome, Milan, Montreal, Damascus, and Beirut. Posthumously, his works found homes in esteemed institutions like the British Museum, Barjeel Art Foundation in Sharjah, and the National Museums of Aleppo and Damascus. His legacy endures in the global art landscape, a poignant narrative of a brilliant artist's journey.
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