Indulgence in summer nostalgia by the sea

Summer is always a source of joy and happiness as many flock to the sun-kissed beaches with which the country is blessed. The sea air, the waves lapping the shore, sticky pink little faces streaked with ice cream, sand between your toes and in your sandwiches remind you of those priceless moments of childhood.

For anyone over the age of 30, beach holidays have changed. No one under 30 cares, but the recent symposium ‘Art By The Sea’ at Masyaf Beach in Ras el-Hekma on the north coast might have changed a few minds.

The symposium features eight sculptures on the beach by Ahmed Hafez, Mohamed Banawi, Ali Mostafa and Taha Nasr.

The symposium was organised by Art d’Egypte, a company that aims to bridge the gap between Egyptian artists and the world. Art d’Egypte also produces documentaries on modern Egyptian art.

Nadine Abdel Ghaffar, founder of Art d’Egypte, told The Egyptian Mail that the symposium is a unique celebration of art and nature, demonstrating the spiritual uplift of art in open spaces.

“Contemporary art is a part of our lives that must be taken care of at all times and in all places. We are always keen in every exhibition or symposium to present a new and different idea,” added Abdel Ghaffar, who was awarded title of Chevalier de L’Ordre des Arts by the French embassy here.

Artist Ali Mustafa told this newspaper that he loved the idea that Art d’Egypte makes people see art everywhere, even on the coast. Mustafa has participated in many exhibitions and biennials, and won many awards.

As for his sculpture for the symposium, Mustafa said riding bicycles is a summer memory that inspired his Time in Motion in the form of three bikes.

Delight on the Beach depicts a father carrying his child on his shoulders and flying a kite.

“It is an image that is repeated often on the beach and becomes present here in front of us,” artist Taha Nasr said.

Clear Waves by Ahmed Hafez shows a colourful sailboat that brings happiness and tranquility.

Art d’Egypte has also recently staged the 1st Alamein Art Festival featuring nine massive sculptures made of factory waste. The month-long exhibition was held as Egypt is gearing up for COP27 due to be held this November in the Red Sea Resort City of Sharm el-Sheikh.