MEHRABAN SALAM

Halabja — Women and art give meaning to life; women constantly seek to develop themselves in the field of art to beautify life. There are many women who enter the world of art with will and determination, always finding a way to continue and never stop in their artistic journey.

For women, the art of painting is not merely creating a painting but a means of expressing their pains, suffering, strength, and abilities. Through painting, they also support the causes of society, homeland, environment, and children, contributing joy to their surroundings and presenting beautiful scenes to art lovers.

Lana Aziz is a graduate of the Institute of Fine Arts in Halabja, Kurdistan Region. She completed her studies in the Visual Arts Department in 2018, began practicing painting, continued developing her artistic experience, and achieved great success. She currently works at the "Khormal Child Protection Center."

She says: "I have been teaching visual arts to children at the center for about a year. The children here receive academic education at a very good level and learn daily how to use colors and draw lines. The art-related lessons include handicrafts, calligraphy, and painting." She affirmed that "in the future, we will seek to involve them in international exhibitions."

She explained that working with children was very difficult for her at first, but with extra effort, "we managed to reach a good level." At present, as she says, "most of the works we display to visitors are by the children, and the children themselves are satisfied with their work. Their level has developed significantly."

She affirms that "the art room itself must have a very calm atmosphere, so that children's minds and hearts are in the best condition and the environment is suitable for them to develop their levels. Children have a pure world, so we must be kind and calm with them, and encourage them to practice everything they love for their progress and development."

She said: "My message to parents is to hold their children's hands, support and encourage them, so that they know where the child sees themselves and what field they love, and to stand by their side so that they can achieve their dreams."