Iskander Aziz: An Icon of Syrian and Syriac Art

Iskander Aziz Qoulanj stands as one of the most prominent figures in Syrian art, carrying the rich Syriac heritage and an exceptional artistic talent that has made him a symbol of creativity and dedication. Born in 1937 in Zalin (Qamishli), Hasakah Governorate, Aziz grew up in a culturally diverse environment that shaped his artistic identity. From an early age, he displayed a remarkable passion for theater, embarking on a journey that would see him become a cornerstone of Syrian and Syriac cultural history.

Early Beginnings: Artistic Roots in Qamishli 

Iskander Aziz was raised in Zalin (Qamishli), a vibrant cultural hub in northeastern Syria. In an era where community interactions were central to daily life, theater served as a powerful medium for expressing hopes and struggles. As a child, Aziz and his friends organized simple theatrical performances in their neighborhoods, writing scripts, designing sets, and acting themselves. These early experiences, which he later likened to a “traveling theater,” ignited his love for the arts and gave him the confidence to pursue his passion. 

During his teenage years, Aziz delved deeper into theater, participating in local performances that showcased his budding talent. His commanding stage presence and ability to connect with audiences caught the attention of those around him. This period served as his first school, shaping his artistic style and teaching him how to blend local spontaneity with theatrical techniques.

Moving to Damascus: A Step Toward Professionalism 

In the early 1950s, Aziz made a bold decision to move to Damascus, the epicenter of Syrian art and culture. There, he collaborated with prominent artists like Salim Hanna and Hamdi Ibrahim, pioneers of Syrian theater at the time. This experience opened new doors, allowing him to refine his acting and directing skills and gain a deeper understanding of professional theater. 

During this phase, Aziz briefly worked at the Cultural Center in Zalin, where he directed eight plays inspired by global literary masterpieces, such as works by Shakespeare and Molière, while infusing them with a local flavor that resonated with Syrian audiences. These productions were not merely performances but efforts to present sophisticated art that addressed universal human issues while respecting cultural nuances.

The National Theater: A Pinnacle of Success 

In 1964, Iskander Aziz joined the National Theater in Daramsuq (Damascus), a milestone that solidified his status as a professional artist. Over the years, he performed in over fifty theatrical productions, ranging from tragedy and comedy to social drama. His ability to embody complex characters—whether historical figures or everyday people—earned him widespread acclaim from both audiences and critics. 

Among his notable works during this period were adaptations of Albert Camus’ The Stranger and Shakespeare’s King Lear, as well as comedic plays that highlighted his wit and ability to entertain without compromising artistic integrity. These performances helped cement the National Theater’s reputation as a platform for meaningful art.

Television and Radio: The Voice of the People 

Aziz’s creativity extended beyond the stage to television and radio, where he left an indelible mark on Syrian drama. He starred in numerous TV series that reflected Syrian social realities, such as stories of rural life and family dynamics. His authentic portrayal of characters ensured his roles remained etched in viewers’ memories. 

On the radio, Aziz contributed to programs and dramas that preserved Syrian cultural heritage. His radio archive includes hundreds of hours of content, ranging from folk tales to historical dramas, reinforcing his role as a guardian of Syrian identity. Additionally, his work in dubbing added a distinctive local touch to foreign productions, further showcasing his versatility.

Global Cinema: Darbo d’hubo and Syriac Identity 

In recent years, Aziz achieved a significant cinematic milestone with his starring role in Darbo d’Hubo (The Path of Love), the first film produced in the Syriac language by Germany’s Darbo Media Production. Filmed in Germany and Turkey, the movie tells a poignant love story rooted in Syriac heritage. Aziz’s heartfelt performance brought the struggles and dreams of the Syriac people to a global audience, using an authentic artistic language. 

More than just a film, Darbo d’Hubo was a cultural project aimed at preserving the Syriac language and promoting it internationally. Through his role, Aziz revitalized interest in Syriac heritage and sent a powerful message about cultural identity as a bridge between communities.

Tributes: Honoring a Storied Career 

In December 2023, the Syriac Theater Festival celebrated Iskander Aziz’s remarkable contributions to Syrian and Syriac art. Held from December 14 to 16, the festival drew a large crowd of artists and admirers who praised his dedication and creativity. This tribute was not just a moment of recognition but a testament to Aziz’s integral role in Syria’s cultural memory. 

Over the years, Aziz has received numerous awards and honors from local and regional institutions. However, he has always maintained that his greatest reward is the love of his audience and the positive impact he has had on their lives.

Cultural Impact: Champion of the Syriac Cause 

Iskander Aziz is more than an actor; he is a torchbearer for Syriac identity at a time when it faces existential challenges. Through his work, he has preserved and promoted the Syriac language, whether in plays performed in local dialects or in a film spoken entirely in Syriac. His efforts have inspired younger generations of Syriacs to embrace their roots with pride. 

Aziz has also fostered dialogue between Syria’s diverse cultures and those beyond its borders. His works, blending local and universal elements, served as a call for coexistence and mutual respect. During Syria’s challenging times, Aziz remained a voice of hope and humanity, believing that art could heal and unite.

Legacy and the Future 

With over seven decades of artistic contributions, Iskander Aziz remains a symbol of enduring creativity. His vast archive of theatrical, television, and radio works is a cultural treasure worthy of preservation and study. His legacy extends beyond his productions to the spirit he instilled in his students, colleagues, and audiences. 

Today, Aziz continues to inspire new generations of artists, whether through his involvement in new projects or the stories of his success that circulate in artistic circles. He is a living example that art, when offered with sincerity and passion, can transcend borders and leave a lasting impact.

Conclusion 

Iskander Aziz Qoulanj is more than an artist; he is the voice of Syriac identity, the conscience of Syrian art, and a symbol of creativity that defies time. From the humble streets of Zalin (Qamishli) to the prestigious stages of Daramsuq (Damascus) and onto global screens, Aziz has remained true to his mission: to tell human stories, preserve his people’s heritage, and inspire hope. His storied career deserves to be celebrated as an essential part of Syria’s cultural legacy, a tale to be passed down to future generations as a testament to dedication and artistry.

In this series

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