Different groups of Iraqi artists and craftsmen are using their skills to boost the mood in a main protest site in the heart of the capital Baghdad.

Protesters are getting a makeover at the hands of barbers camping at Tahrir Square while members of a band are regaling them with local music.

Anti-government rallies have been going on in Iraq for several weeks. This is the most widespread protest since the end of Hussein"s rule in Baghdad. County police repeatedly tried to disperse demonstrations with tear gas and rubber bullets. Over 250 people were killed in clashes in October.