2017 International Art Competition, 1st Place

A portrait of an Assyrian woman dressed in traditional Assyrian folk costume. The piece captures the spirit of Assyrian culture and heritage.

John Malk is an Assyrian artist known for his realistic sketches and portraits. Using graphite pencils and charcoal, Malk has been drawing powerful pieces for years. A native to Syria, Malk’s work is inspired by people from ancient Assyria to modern Syria. He studied art in Damascus, later continuing his education in Poland. In 1992, he resettled in Chicago where continues to create magnificent pieces, capturing the Assyrian spirit in many of his works. His attention to detail brings his portraits to life. Malk believes that art is one of the most effective ways to both document Assyrian history and share Assyrian heritage with the world