Egyptian artist Hossam Dirar has opened up a new exhibition centered around Queen Nefertiti in Zamalek, aiming to honor not just the historical figure but modern Egyptian women as well.
“After living in Barcelona for three years now, I’ve become more appreciative towards Egyptian history, thus, I portrayed the pride I feel for it in my “Nefertiti” series,” Dirar told Egypt Independent.
‘Nefertiti’ is a series of 25 oil paintings, viewed by Dirar as a modern take on the ancient Egyptian queen who has been seen as icon of female empowerment. Queen Nefertiti is embodied in Dirar’s repertoire of paintings through modern poses, accessories and daring colors.
Dirar’s exhibitions are usually themed around concepts that arouse questions that delve into cultural identity, gender roles, political ideas and more. Dirar relies on the colorful brushstrokes mess to give his art a wild impression, yet with a well-defined look creating his own sensational technique; organized chaos.
Treading the line between a victorious grasp of the ancient Egyptian history with the rosiness of the Egyptian women’s future, Dirar’s Nefertiti is painted with dignity and pride.
The aritst explained to us where the name “Nefertiti” comes from, saying that it translates as “the beautiful one has come”, while the part “nefer” specifically means more than just beauty.
When asked about Nefertiti’s role in this series, Dirar explained that the character of the mysterious beautiful queen is powerful enough to push Egyptian women out of the shadow, enforcing her significant philosophy that was fueled by the women’s unlimited strength despite all the surrounding stereotypical traditions.
He referred to Nefertiti’s brilliance in merging prosperous leadership and motherhood at the same time.
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Dirar has been always greatly passionate towards female freedom and rights, and so he couldn’t find a better model to signify this passion than Queen Nefertiti.
The artist trusts art to display women’s personalities on canvas in a way that credits their contributions to civilization.
This article has been adapted from its original source.
