Ali Mahmood
All the way from Baghdad to Berlin
Interview with Ali Mahmood
Ali Mahmood
An Iraqi-German visual artist whose journey began at the age of four, when a simple pencil awakened a lifelong passion for art. From the vivid colors of nature to the pages of comic books, early inspirations shaped his fascination with storytelling through lines, light, and emotion. Now based in Berlin, Ali has developed a versatile practice that bridges traditional and contemporary art. His works range from realistic paintings and expressive ink drawings to conceptual projects exploring the human connection to nature and technology. He is the author and illustrator of The Heart of Art, the creator of the ATE (Art, Technology & Entertainment) event series, and the founder of creative workshops that bring together artists and beginners to explore drawing as a path toward mindfulness and self-expression. Ali’s art celebrates diversity, heritage, and the courage to create reminding us that perfection is not the goal, but expression itself.
“Waukee” A Short Film By Ali Mahmood
Feb 2016 Heidenheim,
“Waukee” is a short film created by artists from Iraq and Germany people who, like me, met in 2016 at a refugee shelter in Bruchsal. What began as a simple idea became a creative collaboration that turned shared uncertainty into art, laughter, and hope. For me, it was more than a film it was a reminder that art connects us beyond language and circumstance. With the support of Praktisches Miteinander e.V., we found light through creativity and friendship. “Waukee” is a small story far from politics made simply to bring people together and share a smile. Make art, not war.
What is Ankedoo?
I chose this name for my brand because this character is a central character in the world-famous epic of Gilgamesh, which comes from the Mesopotamian civilization (currently Iraq). In the epic, Ankedoo appears as a man of the wilds who loves animals and is against civilization. Although he is equal to king Gilgamesh in power and influence, in the beginning he performs some actions that contradict with the actions of the cultured king and civilized warrior.Read More
Interview
Interview with
Dr. Saif Al hadede
Part 1
Interview
Interview with
Dr. Saif Al hadede
Part 2
INTERVIEW with DW
The Role of Women in Art, as Seen by Artist Ali Mahmood A Special Interview with DW
In an exclusive interview with DW, artist Ali Mahmoud emphasized that women are not merely an aesthetic object in artworks, but rather a fundamental creative force reshaping the Iraqi art scene.
Ali explained that women’s presence in art should be understood as creators of beauty and meaning, not as secondary elements. They contribute to shaping the visual identity and human message conveyed by art.
He pointed out that the ATE event he is organizing in Baghdad embodies this trend, allowing women artists to give lectures and workshops and showcase their productions as part of a cultural exchange.
He concluded by saying:
“Women today are not only partners in the art scene, but are a fundamental pillar in building Iraq’s creative future.”
INTERVIEWS
spreading art words in public
When I start talking about art, I feel that I am in my favorite environment. I find words quickly and describe colors accurately. I am happy to always encourage young people to do art, and I never skimp on sharing my information with those who deserve it.
I can also tell you that
I am an Iraqi artist based in Berlin
-Date of Birth: October 30, 1993
-Place of Birth: Baghdad
-Artist at K&L wall-art GmbH (currently employed)
-founder of: Ink Drawing community and ATE event
-Ali graduated from an intensive course at the Berlin Art Institute 2024, to study Texts and writing on many forms, and the relationship with art and Artificial Intelligence and how we can use for beneficial interests for companies and on a personal level.
-Participant in an Exhibition with various artists at MotionLab Berlin 2023
-Part of an Exhibition with various artists at Creative Sessions Berlin 2023
– Solo Exhibition (books off) 2022 Berlin
-Portrait Painter at the Fahar Al-Salih Exhibition 2017
-Short Film “Waukee”: Concept, Execution, and Acting Sponsored by Praktisches Miteinander e.V. 2016
-Member and Participating Artist at the Music and Art School Bruchsal 2016
– Photo Exhibition with Praktisches Miteinander e.V. 2015
-Art Courses with the Sada “Echo” To develop creative talents and how to make art from difficult environmental life experiences. 2013-2014 Baghdad
-Instructor for Drawing and Photography Courses for Artists of Assembly Iraq 2013-2014
Coordinator in the Art Department for the television channel “Beladi” 2012-2014
-A painter at TEDX Baghdad 2014 Baghdad
