The Iraqi Children's Art Exchange invites Iraqi and American children and youth to participate in art-inspired projects. Feeling the urgency of the situation created by twenty plus years of political and cultural struggle, war, sanctions, occupation and violence in Iraq, we reach out to children and youth on both sides of the conflict, using art as a vehicle to engage them in the struggle for a better, more sustainable and just world. Transcending the barriers of language, culture and politics, projects are defined and guided by an alternative view, one of international cooperation, respect and goodwill between people and institutions.

ICAE encourages and supports drawing, painting and sculpting for the sheer pleasure of it. Beyond that we recognize art as an important language of childhood, one that offers children and youth an opportunity to speak - to each other and to the wider community - and to have their views taken seriously.

The Iraqi Children's Art Exchange creates exhibits. All of the art and photographs from our projects is available for writers and teachers as well as for community, national and international forums and events. Our goal is to bring the ideas, views, concerns, hopes and dreams of children and youth into the critical discussions and decisions of our day.