Art Cairo, the Middle East and North Africa’s premier contemporary art fair, returns for its highly anticipated sixth edition from February 8 to 11, 2025, at the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Art Cairo serves as a powerful platform that unites artists, galleries, collectors, and art enthusiasts from across the world. The event provides a unique opportunity to experience and celebrate Arab art, culture, and history through immersive exhibitions and engaging conversations.
A Theme of Unity and Peace
This year, Art Cairo embraces the theme “Peace to All Nations,” celebrating art’s ability to serve as a universal language of harmony and dialogue. The theme underscores art’s role in transcending borders and fostering cultural connections in an ever-evolving world. Curated exhibitions and insightful discussions will explore how art plays a pivotal role in promoting unity and peace.
Nizar Sabour’s ‘Egyptian Sarcophagi’
One of the major highlights of Art Cairo 2025 is the work of renowned Syrian artist Nizar Sabour, who presents his latest collection, “Egyptian Sarcophagi.” This body of work is a tribute to iconic Arab and Egyptian cultural figures. Sabour masterfully blends traditional Eastern Christian iconography with Egyptian and Coptic influences, creating a visual narrative that honors legends such as Umm Kulthum, Naguib Mahfouz, and Fairuz.
At the core of Sabour’s pieces is the olive tree—a symbol of resilience and harmony—capturing the very spirit of Art Cairo 2025.
Panels and Discussions
Art Cairo 2025 offers a dynamic schedule of talks and panels that will feature prominent voices in the art world. The discussions will cover a range of important topics, including:
- Contemporary Arab Art: A Global Narrative – Examining the influence of Arab heritage on modern artistic expression.
- Women in Arab Art: Breaking Boundaries – Spotlighting female artists who challenge societal norms and push the boundaries of artistic convention.
- Art and Technology: The Digital Shift – Delving into how artificial intelligence, NFTs, and virtual galleries are transforming the art scene.
A Diverse Artistic Showcase
With over 3,000 pieces of art on display, Art Cairo 2025 offers visitors the chance to explore the work of some of the region’s most celebrated artists. Featured artists include the likes of Adam Henein, Helmy El-Touni, and Souad Mardam Bey, alongside galleries representing ten countries—creating an exciting dialogue between contemporary and historical art influences.
Art Critique Workshop
A standout feature of Art Cairo 2025 is its Visual Arts Criticism Workshop, offering attendees a chance to engage deeply with the world of art critique. Led by renowned art critics, the workshop covers a range of topics—from the essentials of approaching an artist to the science of artistic appreciation and the role of criticism in cultural journalism.
This workshop provides a unique educational platform for cultivating a new generation of informed critics, deepening their understanding of visual arts in all its forms.
Honoring Samir Rafi
Art Cairo 2025 will also pay tribute to Samir Rafi, the guest of honor at this year’s edition. A pioneering figure in modern Egyptian art, Rafi reimagined surrealism through an Egyptian lens, seamlessly blending mythology, memory, and heritage into his striking visual language.
Rafi’s work, shaped by his rich multicultural background, continues to inspire artists and collectors alike, bridging tradition and modernity with timeless depth.
