KARIM KHALIL, Baghdad, Iraq

In a society that dictates what is allowed and what is not, forbidden fruit becomes a closely held secret.

“Decadence” refers to the era in which I created this series of paintings. Not to the figures depicted. It was a time when the mafia controlled the political system, embezzlement was common, and the government generally neglected the state of society.

These paintings tell the tale of desires and thoughts I have never shared with anyone.

Canvases of both fear and joy, they try to express a life lived during wartime, and the coalition-led invasion and occupation of my country. They tell the story of my unconscious being. My self-deceptions. Deep thoughts that have settled in my soul.

Such daydreaming is an escape from a harsh life.

Where words fail, color takes over. Allowing me to express society’s taboos. Beautiful women I wish I could have touched. Lovers and desired ones. Memorable events.

With magic, I try to give my heroes—these beautiful women—life. Their strong character and inner strength are obvious. They are more powerful than men, who have virtually vanished. Even the angels are women.

I feel my spirit cleansed. My very being.