Ahmad Nabaz has made history as the first Kurdish artist invited to the fourth international “Artiade” exhibition, known as the “Art Olympiad.” The event will take place in November 2026 in Valencia, Spain. Nabaz will present three video artworks at the global exhibition.
Nabaz said that organizers first informed him about the acceptance of his three video pieces. Later, he received an official invitation to join the exhibition. This marks a major step in his artistic career.
He chose video art for his participation because it offers a simple and flexible format. It also reduces transport costs and allows faster global distribution of his message. Nabaz said he wants to reach international audiences more effectively. He stressed that Kurdish artists must present their work beyond the region. He also said his goal focuses on promoting contemporary Kurdish art worldwide.
Nabaz described his three selected works as distinct pieces with separate stories. Each video explores real-life themes through artistic storytelling. He said he will present Kurdish identity through his participation. He also aims to highlight Kurdistan on an international cultural stage.
The “Artiad” exhibition began in 1996. It brings together artists based on the quality of their work. A professional international jury selects all participants. The organizers keep artists’ identities hidden until the final stage. Previous editions took place in Atlanta, Athens, and New York.
Ahmad Nabaz was born in 1986 in Erbil. He holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. He works across painting, installation, video, photography, and digital art. His art often examines violence, conflict, and human conditions. In 2015, he gained international attention through his digital series “The Destroyers.”
