Fouad Abu Assaf was a visionary Syrian sculptor whose life and work were inextricably
linked to the volcanic stone of his homeland. Born in the village of Saleem in
Suwayda, Abu Assaf graduated from the Faculty of Fine Arts at Damascus
University (1991) and went on to become one of the most prolific and
influential sculptors of his generation.
Affectionately known as the "Friend of Basalt,"
Abu Assaf possessed a rare ability to transform the stubborn,
"stubborn" volcanic rock into fluid, emotive forms. His work was a
profound dialogue between ancient Syrian mythology and modern existential
struggle. He often drew upon Mesopotamian symbols, folklore, and local legends,
reimagining them through a contemporary lens that spoke to the resilience and
suffering of the Syrian people.
With a legacy of over 5,000 works, his impact is visible across
the Syrian landscape. He was the creator of major public monuments, most
notably the "Student Martyr" monument at Damascus University.
Beyond his own creations, he was a dedicated educator, serving as a professor
at the Institute of Applied Arts and mentoring countless young artists in his
studio in Suwayda, which became a cultural hub for thinkers and creators.
Abu Assaf’s art was characterized by what he called a "search
for the beautiful." Whether sculpting a monumental public piece or an
intimate studio work, he sought to give the cold stone a "soul,"
creating a permanent record of Syrian identity and human grace.
