About

Originally born in Iraq and raised in Dubai, Zak moved to New York City in the summer of 2018 in search of personal freedom and creative self-expression. Trained as a mechanical engineer, he spent nearly two decades in a successful but unfulfilling career. Following the sudden and tragic loss of his mother, and after years of suppressing his identity in a region where self-expression was limited, Zak made the life-altering decision to begin again.

New York became a turning point. After settling into the city and working in retail roles to connect with people and refine his English, the global pause of the COVID-19 pandemic opened space for something unexpected. With a simple set of watercolors, paper, and brushes, Zak began painting instinctively—figures, emotions, and moments of beauty that reflected both memory and hope.

As a concept-driven artist, all Zak Pop Art works are created using only the six colors of the LGBTQ+ flag. This intentional limitation serves as both a visual signature and a powerful symbol. Each painting embodies visibility, resilience, and pride, transforming personal history into vibrant narratives of survival and self-acceptance.

Zak’s practice is deeply rooted in storytelling. His figures reflect vulnerability and strength, joy and longing—echoing a journey that spans continents, cultures, and identities. What began as a personal act of healing has grown into an artistic platform that speaks to universal themes of belonging and liberation.

Today, Zak Pop Art shares his work with a global audience through exhibitions, art fairs, and digital platforms, continuing to advocate for LGBTQ+ voices—especially those from the Middle East—through color, movement, and watercolor.

More to come.