How did Saddam Hussein’s former personal physician (above) end up talking to Gone Dishin’ in a Westville gallery? And how did Cain’s name end up in boldface type? Read on to find out.
It is never surprising to see world renowned authors, scientists, or politicians on the Yale campus or elsewhere in New Haven. The opportunities to attend lectures and participate in lifelong learning abound. There is an extraordinary visitor in our city who may become a regular visitor and provides an international dimension to our vibrant arts community.
Our gratitude must be extended to Lesley Roy (at right in picture) for introducing us to one of the most fascinating people of our time.
Last Thursday night was not only the celebration of the opening of Lesley’s New Corvus Gallery, located in her totally renovated space on Whalley Avenue in the Westville section; it was a celebration of a great talent and the triumph of the human spirit. The gallery is dedicated to the haunting and magnificent work of Ala Bashir. Dr. Bashir is a multi-talented University of Baghdad and Fine Art School graduate and an Edinburgh-trained plastic surgeon who served as the personal physician and confidante to Saddam Hussein until his final days in power. It was, as they say, “an offer that he could not refuse.” He lived under constant surveillance and in fear. Although summoned to Saddam’s side on the day after the Americans took the airport, he was able to escape the country. He and his family reside in Nottingham, England. Dr. Bashir has authored In The Name of Terror and The Insider and is the recipient of many international awards for his art; his work is represented in museums worldwide.
Since leaving his country, Ala (pictured) has abandoned his medical career for his art, which is as extraordinary as his life’s journey. He is an eminent painter and sculptor. Most of his work is haunting; some early work reminds us of Salvador Dali. One collection is entitled “Mask,” a reflection of his belief that every human being since the biblical Cain, has hidden behind a mask. Crows predominate in another frightening series. The work must be seen by art lovers, historians and others. He has replicated some of the large pieces that were destroyed and looted at the National Museum. He has been the subject of numerous articles and the subject of a documentary on the History Channel.
So, I started just to Dish at a great party and got understandably distracted from the usual “skin and grin” of such an event ; it was an education and an experience. Lesley will have over 3,000 pieces of Ala’s illustrious and prolific artwork. Each of them gives us insight into the man, his culture, and his abiding hope of peace for his country and our world. He, too, is hoping for — ¬¶..The Greater Good!