“Art gives me peace, comfort, and strength”
KirkukNow in Diyala
“Art gives me peace, comfort, and strength”
KirkukNow in Diyala
Rather than surrendering to cancer, Suad Michael transformed art into a source of healing and emotional strength, emerging as what many describe as a “successful warrior.”
Despite the pain of illness, she never allowed cancer to dim the vibrant atmosphere of her studio. She continued painting whenever she could, using art as a way to confront and overcome the disease. Now 54 years old, Suad has spent nearly three decades working as an artist and craftswoman.
Art: From Passion to Healing
A graduate of the Design Department at the College of Fine Arts, University of Baghdad, in 1993, Suad says her connection with colors and handicrafts began in childhood.
“I grew up surrounded by colors and handmade art, and this talent developed with me until it became an essential part of my life,” Suad told KirkukNow.
She dedicated one room of her home to painting, handmade crafts, and decorative artwork. Studying fine arts opened the door to a long artistic journey. “For 30 years, I have continued creating art, holding 11 solo exhibitions and participating in dozens of group exhibitions,” she added.
When she was diagnosed with cancer, fear overwhelmed her at first, but she chose not to give up. “My family and my art gave me the strength to fight the illness.”
During the early stages of treatment, doctors advised her to stay away from painting materials because of the strong chemical odors. However, she soon returned to her artwork.
“With one hand I took my medication, and with the other I painted hope and success,” she said.
Creativity During Hardship
Economic difficulties and salary delays did not discourage Suad. Instead, they pushed her to create new opportunities. She launched an online page to sell her handmade crafts and artwork, helping her cover living expenses and medical costs while also introducing her art to a wider audience.
Suad, who works at the College of Languages and Humanities at the University of Garmian in Khanaqin, explained that financial hardship, illness, and salary issues motivated her to market her artwork online.
“Cancer Warrior”
Doctors often refer to her as a “warrior,” a title Suad proudly embraces after surviving the most difficult stages of her illness.
“There was a time when I thought everything was over,” she recalled. “Life felt dark. I lost my hair, my body became weak, my appearance changed, and my days were filled with pain.”
Today, however, she says she has regained her health and strength. “I am doing very well now and have overcome the disease. Art became my treatment,” she said, adding that creativity gives her peace, comfort, and energy.
Suad also shared a message for women and cancer patients: “Never give up. Hold on to the things you love because they can save you. No matter how hard life becomes, there is always a chance to begin again.”
