Since the fall of Mubarak’s regime, Egypt’s art world is anticipating somewhat of a crisis. Issues formerly regarded as taboo, such as corruption, sexuality and poverty, have been given a new canvas upon which to develop, and are now openly presented in Cairo’s art galleries. There is, however, deep uncertainty as to how long it will last.
Over the last few months as Egypt held elections for the Lower House of Parliament, Islamists, represented by the Muslim Brotherhood and the Salafis, have won 70 percent of the vote. Both groups view much contemporary Egyptian art as an assault on religion, and in direct conflict with their and society’s interests.
Fiery artist Weaam El-Masry, whose nudes are risqué by almost any standards, says she is worried about the prospect of an Islamist-dominated government. “They don’t think. They don’t use logic,” she says. “They think art is forbidden.” At look at some of her work.
—Kristian Jebsen
