Issam Kourbaj

Issam Kourbaj was born and grew up in Syria before settling in Cambridge in 1990. Following the uprising in Syria in 2011, Kourbaj has been a constant creative witness to the continuing conflict in his home country, his art increasingly addressing the endemic pain and suffering that accompanies displacement and forced migration everywhere. Published to accompany two substantial solo exhibitions at Kettle’s Yard, University of Cambridge and The Heong Gallery, Downing College, Cambridge, this new book explores the life and work of an artist characterised by collaboration and endless curiosity. Kourbaj’s art is expressive and alive, suggesting even in the darkest hours the potential for change and renewal.

Edited by Guy Haywood, with texts by Åsmund Asdal; Brian Dillon; Bonnie Greer; Rana Haddad; Guy Haywood; and Prerona Prasad.

“How can we grasp the remarkable artistic breadth of Issam Kourbaj? Here is an art
so full of invention and purpose that its images and ideas reverberate well beyond the
walls of any gallery. Kourbaj’s achievement is to make us look, pause and imagine.
Engaging with his acute and powerful work makes us consider our responsibility for
the conditions of others on our shared planet” Andrew Nairne, Director of Kettle’s Yard

Paperback
112 pages
ISBN: 9781904561729
Dimensions: 260 x 212mm