However, in the 1930s and 40s, a group of talented local artists was sent to study in Europe by the Ministry of Culture.
They also consciously searched for a visual language that would integrate contemporary abstract art with Iraqi traditions and themes.
These artists formed the nucleus of the group that founded the College of Fine Arts and became its first Faculty members.
In 1940 the range of subjects studied was expanded to include acting, directing, painting and sculpture.
[2] Then in 1958 it became the Academy of Fine Arts and premises were found in Bab Al-Moatham near the Medical City Teaching Hospital.