"Since creation, the lord created the sun to breakdown darkness. Sunshine that reaches the earth and gives a call for humans to rise and start a new day. Humans, animals, and nature all follow the light emerging from the shadow. A new day, pure like a newborn, is when we open our eyes to see the dawn. A cycle for us to rise and express our emotions of love as we react to our surroundings. Through colors I display the elements of life and light in my painting."
Paul Batou, a native to Iraq, received a degree in pharmaceutical studies in 1982 from the University of Baghdad. While in school, Batou was inspired by many teachers and artists at the University. In 1980, he participated in his first art show in Baghdad. After graduating, he was forced to serve in the Iraq-Iran war as a medic. He left Iraq in 1989 and moved to Los Angeles, where he has continued to create art that celebrates Assyrian heritage and inspires many.