At the Carrousel du Louvre, contemporary egypt comes to light with a joint dialogue by Mahmoud Ahmed Hawary and Mohamed Kamal.
In Paris, the Carrousel du Louvre is hosting an exhibition by Egyptian photographer Mahmoud Ahmed Hawary, dedicated to issues of identity, cultural transmission, and the social realities of Upper Egypt. Through this series, the artist offers an immersion into a region marked by a history spanning thousands of years yet still largely overlooked in contemporary international photography. His work highlights scenes of daily life and underscores the enduring role of traditions in shaping contemporary identities.
For more than fifteen years, Mahmoud Ahmed Hawary has been developing a body of documentary work dedicated to the people, landscapes, and cultural practices of Upper Egypt. His approach stands in contrast to the sensationalist portrayals often associated with these regions, instead focusing on the dignity of the people, the continuity of their ways of life, and the richness of local cultures. This Paris exhibition also marks a new phase for his initiative Humans of Upper Egypt, a platform he founded to highlight the human stories of the region through photography, publishing, and various cultural projects.
Momahed Kamal also sheds light on daily life in Egypt. “Through my photographs, I strive to capture authentic moments that reflect the rhythm of daily life and the diversity of Egyptian society. The images presented in the exhibition come from several locations, including South Sinai, Port Said, Cairo, and Luxor, each offering its own unique atmosphere, culture, and human stories.”
Their images invite viewers to take a different look at Egypt, moving beyond representations focused solely on heritage or tourism. They offer a thoughtful exploration of contemporary human and social realities, emphasizing the cultural diversity and vibrant life of these regions. The artist thus underscores his desire to showcase a modern Upper Egypt, shaped by the people who live there, beyond its historical legacy alone.
This exhibition is part of a dynamic of international cultural exchange aimed at enhancing the visibility of contemporary Egyptian photography in Europe. By taking place in an iconic site of the Parisian cultural scene, the project helps broaden perspectives on Egyptian identity, offering an approach centered on human experiences and the social transformations taking place today.
More information
