We are delighted to share that our 2026 opening exhibition will be a solo show of new works by emerging Egyptian artist Abdelwahab Hawam (b. 1988), marking his debut exhibit in the UAE.
Hawam studied graphic arts at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Helwan University. His influences include pioneering Egyptian modernists Ragheb Ayad and Mahmoud Saeed, as well as Pablo Picasso, Egon Schiele, and Amedeo Modigliani.
Since 2010 he has exhibited in group shows, including Art Corner Gallery, Cairo (2014; 2015), Dai Gallery, Cairo (2018), and held his first solo exhibition in Lebanon at Art Scene Gallery, Beirut (2018). Later, he presented solo exhibitions and participated in art fairs, namely Mashrabia Gallery, Cairo (2023; 2025), and Art Cairo with Mashrabia Gallery (2025; 2026).
Hawam draws inspiration from his hometown of El Mahalla El Kubra in Gharbeya Governorate—its countryside, colours, and the facial features of people who shaped his early life. He often reflects on the warmth and closeness of the relationships within this community as a central influence on his work.
Working in oil on canvas, Hawam places women at the center of the universe through surreal, playful narrative compositions and colors. The exaggerated feminine form emerges as a force of energy and imagination. He reimagines human experiences with an uplifting, optimistic vision that invites viewers into his vibrant, magical world.
We would like to thank curator and advisor Nadine Ayoub (@The Space Between) for her collaboration on this exhibition.