The seventh edition of Art Cairo Fair, launched on 23 January at the Grand Egyptian Museum under the theme “Arab. Art. Here,” and will run through 26 January. The fair, which describes itself as the only art fair in the world dedicated exclusively to Arab artists, and the only fair of its kind currently held in Egypt, brings modern and contemporary art into dialogue with Egypt’s ancient heritage. Its theme, “Arab. Art. Here,” is drawn from the words of the pioneering Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, “This is my language, my miracle, my magic wand.” The quotation reflects a belief that the Arabic language is among the strongest forces uniting the region, and it serves as the guiding concept for this year’s edition. This year’s fair features nearly 220 artists, established and emerging, with 30 percent of participating artists being Egyptian. More than 1,400 works will be on view, including pieces by prominent figures like Lebanese artist and sculptor Salwa Zidan and Lebanese artist Mark Hashem. It also includes 35 galleries from across the Middle East and North Africa, from countries such as Syria, Iraq, Bahrain, Tunisia, Morocco, and Turkey. Several…
