Iraqi sculptor and painter Saad Nayif dies, artists' union announces

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi sculptor and painter Saad Nayif has died, the Iraqi Artists Syndicate announced on Tuesday in a condolence statement. The syndicate offered its condolences to the artist's family, loved ones and colleagues. Nayif was a recognized figure in contemporary Iraqi plastic arts and sculpture, and took part in various art events and exhibitions across the country, including the annual Iraq Sculpture Exhibition and the Wasiti Plastic Arts Festival. Over a long career, he worked closely with Iraq's plastic arts scene and the Iraqi Plastic Artists Association. The syndicate said Nayif's legacy would be preserved within Iraq's art community. No further details about the circumstances of his death were immediately available.