In a renewed celebration of Egypt’s ancient cultural identity, the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir opened the international art exhibition “From Green Papyrus to Eternal Art”, a major global event organized by the International Art Forum for Development in collaboration with UNESCO. The exhibition runs from December 1 to 6, 2025, and carries the official patronage of Egypt’s Ministries of Tourism and Antiquities, Culture, Social Solidarity, and Environment, along with strong support from the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Authority and principal sponsorship by the Commercial International Bank (CIB).
According to Dr. Ali Abdel Halim, Director-General of the Egyptian Museum, the exhibition aims to spotlight the papyrus plant as one of the oldest and most enduring symbols of Egyptian civilization. Once the primary medium for writing and knowledge, papyrus has evolved into a modern source of artistic inspiration for creators around the world. The exhibition, he noted, underscores Egypt’s ongoing role as a center of creativity, culture, and global influence.
The opening ceremony drew a distinguished audience of high-level officials, public figures, artists, and cultural leaders, reflecting the event’s significance and its resonance within Egypt’s cultural landscape. Dr. Abdel Halim welcomed attendees, expressing pride in hosting an event that merges art with heritage inside one of the world’s most historic museums. He also commended the participating artists for their contemporary interpretations of ancient Egyptian symbolism.
UNESCO Regional Office Director Dr. Nuria Sanz emphasized the organization’s interest in Egyptian papyrus as an integral component of world heritage. She highlighted UNESCO’s ongoing support for documenting and safeguarding intangible cultural elements linked to papyrus traditions.
Randa Raouf, founder of the initiative, outlined the exhibition’s philosophy, which aims to reconnect past and present by exploring genuine sustainability through heritage, nature, and art. Actress and initiative ambassador Dalia El Beheiry addressed the audience as well, stressing the exhibition’s role in reinforcing Egyptian identity through artistic expression and noting the importance of the museum as a historic home for events that bring audiences closer to their ancient roots.
Featuring a curated selection of international artworks inspired by the rich legacy of papyrus, the exhibition offers a unique experience for visitors, researchers, and artists alike. It reflects the shared mission of UNESCO and the International Art Forum to use art as a tool for sustainable development, deepen awareness of intangible heritage, and strengthen cultural dialogue across nations.
By hosting this exhibition within the Egyptian Museum, organizers bring together Egypt’s millennia-old history and contemporary artistic innovation, reinforcing the country’s status as a global hub for art, culture, and heritage.
