The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

From the Cairo/Alex Desert
Road to the winding alleyways of Downtown, various
independent and institutionalized art spaces in Cairo provide us with numerous ways to both
experience and enjoy our city’s contemporary art scene.

While concepts and programs differ from one gallery to another, knowing
which venues to visit for what can be a bit tricky. Below is a list that
will help you manage a day of gallery hopping around this adventurous city.

Zamalek: Located behind Maison Thomas off of 26th of July Street,
Al Masar Gallery is known for their exhibits by prominent
artists such as Hany Rashed and Georges Baghory. The space is expansive and
makes for a great break from daytime errands in the neighbourhood. Safar Khan is situated
on Brazil Street, providing an intimate viewing experience with its tiny two-floor
space. Down the road, Zamalek Art
Gallery boasts a homey yet well-established atmosphere, where the artwork is
sometimes displayed in a harried and disorganised way. Located on the first
floor of a residential building across from Hana and Moon Flower, Picasso Gallery is hit-and-miss
but makes for a quick run through when you’re on Hassan Assem Street.

Downtown/Garden City: Providing a more alternative cultural experience
as opposed to the mainstream refinement of the Zamalek galleries, the Downtown art
scene continues to flourish from the streets to the interior spaces. The
independence of the well-established Townhouse Gallery
of Contemporary Art makes it a
successful venue for both accessibility and experience. Not only does the
gallery continuously manage projects; but they’ve also got a great library
space to peruse at your disposal. The surrounding neighbourhood also includes the Mashrabia Gallery, which is a
smaller space with less of a following. A visit to Espace Karim Francis Gallery on El Sherifein Street
is great to pair with a shisha and fresh juice from the open-air ahwa below. Contemporary Image
Collective (CIC) has been re-opened for almost a year now and is
continuing to present many exciting opportunities for involvement, including
workshops and darkroom access. If you’re looking to invest in an affordable
piece of art, head to Duroub Gallery in Garden City.

Dokki/Mohandiseen/Giza: El Kahila Art Gallery is simply
designed and tucked away on El Batal Ahmed Street. The outdoor
gardens provide a peaceful setting while the staff give you your space but are
always available to answer any questions. Small display cabinets showcase
jewellery pieces by local designers.

Coptic Cairo:
Surrounded
by historical beauty is the ever-growing Darb 17 18.   As the home to workshops and performances and a big
patron of the local community through artistic endeavours; Darb 17 18 also
hosts art exhibits on a regular basis. The area of El Fustat makes for a great trip,
where you can expand your horizon of art in Cairo while soaking in some deep history
while you’re at it.

Maadi: Easel and Camera
Gallery on Nasr Street
provides the perfect opportunity to catch a little art and coffee. Surrounded by local and international coffee chains, Easel and Camera
often goes under the radar, and its exhibits aren’t as regular as other galleries
around.

Cairo/Alex Desert Road: For
those up for a little consumption, head to Designopolis on the Cairo/Alex Desert Road
where you can enjoy some art while shopping from the upscale home design shops in the mall. Tache Gallery is a newly opened space; its first exhibit
showcased twenty years of work by acclaimed local artist Huda Lutfi. With big ambitions,
who knows what this gallery is up to next.