The origins of the institute can be traced back to the
Baghdad Conservatory, founded in 1936 by
Assyrian composer and scholar
Hanna Petros. Until the early 20th century there was little development in the
visual arts. However, in the 1930s and 40s, a group of talented local artists was sent to study in Europe by the Ministry of Culture. On their return, these artists introduced modern styles such as impressionism to the local scene. They shared their experiences and knowledge of art by opening studios, providing art tuition, organising artists' collectives and exhibitions. Most of these artists taught in the modern style. 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. In the same year, the name was changed to the Institute of Fine Arts. Then in 1958 it became the Academy of Fine Arts and premises were found in
Bab Al-Moatham near the
Medical City Teaching Hospital. There was an expansion of courses available with a Department of Film and Theatre, and Department of Painting and Sculpture. ==Brief timeline==