Clay Transforms into Vibrant and Funky ‘Habibti’ Sculptures by Maryam Yousif

Iraqi-American ceramic artist Maryam Yousif draws inspiration from the 20th-century funk art movement and the visual language of her birth country, Iraq. Born in Baghdad and now residing in San Francisco, Yousif creates her signature Habibti figures, which depict the Arabic term for "sweetheart" or "darling." These sculptures are adorned with floral dresses, landscapes, and other shapes, showcasing a playful and vibrant style.

Many of her works were featured in her solo exhibition, Above Earth, Under The Rays of the Sun, at The Pit, whose title was derived from a curse tablet found in the tombs of Assyrian queens in the ancient city of Nimrud.

Clay, as a medium, has been used for pottery and other objects throughout history, connecting artists and viewers to the past. Yousif's interest in clay began as she explored historical research, delving into ancient objects and their symbolic meanings. Her curiosity led her to study supernatural beings, queens and their grave sites, and the nature of objects as representations of places. By studying these ancient objects, Yousif feels a metaphysical connection to her home country of Iraq.

Yousif's research often takes place around Mesopotamia, a region linked to her heritage. She is currently preparing another solo exhibition with Rebecca Camacho Presents in San Francisco, with a planned January opening. Additionally, a commissioned work titled "Midrib" will be exhibited at the Getty Villa in February as part of the Ancient Queenship: Art, Power, and Presence exhibition.