Shayma KAMEL شيماء كامل
Illuminating the Paradoxes of Society
In the labyrinthine streets of Giza City, Egypt, Shayma Kamel emerged as a luminary in the world of painting, her brushstrokes capturing the essence of the Egyptian persona with haunting allure. Born in 1980, Shayma's artistic journey defies convention, transcending borders and boundaries as she splits her time between the bustling metropolises of Cairo and Beirut.
While pursuing a BA in Psychology at Ain Shams University, Shayma's passion for art ignited, guiding her towards the canvas as a medium of expression. Her debut solo exhibition in 2004 delved into personal and familial realms, but quickly evolved to confront political and societal issues head-on.
From Bahrain to Switzerland, and from Saudi Arabia to Lebanon, Shayma's art has traversed continents, resonating with audiences worldwide. Yet, it is her raw, unfiltered exploration of women's challenges in Arab societies that forms the heart of her oeuvre.
Despite lacking formal art education, Shayma's large-scale paintings possess a captivating allure, simultaneously haunting and enchanting. It is within this duality that the conceptual backbone of Shayma Kamel's work lies—a potent exploration of the contradictions inherent in contemporary society.
Juxtaposing reality with fantasy, Shayma peels back the layers of societal norms, revealing the stark tension between imported images and the harsh realities of conservative societies. Through her art, she invites viewers to confront these contradictions, challenging perceptions and sparking conversations that transcend borders and cultures.
stability – 2019 – 90cm x 70cm - mixed media on canvas
the spider mother - 2019 - 150 x 200 cm - mixed media on canvas
the golden spirit - 2019 - 150 x 200 cm - acrylic on canvas