In the heart of the historic Erbil Citadel, one man has become a living symbol of street art. Azad Rashid Hawez, widely known as Azad Tanya, has spent decades capturing the faces of locals and tourists alike with a pencil, a sketchpad, and a remarkable talent for speed.
Since 1984, Azad has dedicated his life to drawing. Every day, he can be found sitting near the Citadel, drawing portraits in just 10 minutes — a feat that has amazed passersby and earned him admiration across generations. His quick yet detailed sketches have become a unique attraction in the area, drawing crowds eager to see their likeness take shape before their eyes.
Azad doesn’t limit his work to street portraits. Beyond fulfilling personal requests, he also sketches famous personalities and global artists, often choosing to work in black and white — a stylistic choice he says brings “spirit” to the artwork. Many of these portraits reflect both his technical skill and deep appreciation for cultural figures.
In addition to his work as an artist, Azad offers private lessons to students and anyone interested in learning the art of portraiture. His influence continues to grow, not just through the art he creates, but also through the inspiration he provides to young artists in Erbil.
With a career spanning over four decades, Azad Tanya has become more than just a street artist — he is a cultural fixture, blending efficiency with artistry in every 10-minute portrait.
