| The new gallery in Zamalek aims to provide a platform for any artistic talent, regardless of age, experience or genre. |
| By Nadine El Sayed |
| Although Zamalek has recently become a hub for the arts, the newest addition to its gallery scene promises to bring a breath of fresh air through.Cala Art Gallery , which opened on March 30, aims to provide a platform for fresh talents who wouldn’t be welcomed in most galleries hosting established artists only to showcase their works. Founders and artists Sherwet Shaheen and Sandy Abel Gawad know first hand the struggle young artists go through trying to get their portfolio displayed in galleries that only want to deal with “known artists.” Abdel Gawad and Shaheen studied art at the American University in Cairo (AUC) and realized that many young artists had the talent but weren’t given the chance. “So, by establishing this place, there wouldn't be as much differentiation and segregation between the well established artists and the younger artists,” the founders say. “However, the gallery will not solely work with younger artists, because [we] believes in art and all it's forms, and respect the well established artists as well.” “Cala will give an opportunity for younger artists to exhibit their work without being antagonized as harshly as other galleries do,” says Abdel Gawad. “It will show artists of all ages, all styles, all backgrounds, as long as there is a talent, there is a chance.” Although most galleries would have exclusive contracts with their artists, Cala prefers not to nail their artists down with contracts. They believe this will allow an opportunity for new talents as well as give young and well-established artists the chance to diversify their platforms. The opening featured the works of 20 artists, with fresh graduates displaying their talents alongside established artists. The exhibition included artworks from Mustafa el Razzaz, Mohamed Abla, Britt Botros Ghali, Wael Darwish, and Sabri Mansour, among others. When asked whether more established artists were unwilling to display their work alongside newer artists, Shaheen says they didn’t face this issue yet. “As a matter of fact [the opening reception] was a great opportunity for younger artists to actually get to know their idols,” she explains. “Also, [it was an opportunity] for the other artists to see the fresh new talents.” Featuring paintings, sculpture, mixed media and photography, the gallery is open to all kinds of arts, including installations and more modern genres. “Cala Art Gallery wants to give the freedom to each artist in showcasing their artwork, regardless of what media they are using,” says Shaheen. “It is after all a freedom of expression.” Stemming from a belief in the important role art plays in building cultures and writing histories, Cala is hoping to be a vibrant and diversified platform for different artists and art forms. The Nuevo Group Exhibition, is on until April 21, open everyday except Fridays from 10 to 8pm. Cala Art Gallery : 140 July 26th street, next to Sawy Cultrual Wheel, Zamalek. |
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