MINISTER of Culture, Ahmed Fouad Hanno, opened the 60th edition of the Cairo Salon last week under the slogan “100 Years of Creativity.” The event, which will run until October 10, is organized by the Society of Fine Arts Lovers and takes place at the Opera House in downtown Cairo.**
The Cairo Salon is one of Egypt’s oldest and most prestigious artistic events, having held its first edition in 1921. The Society of Fine Arts Lovers, which was founded in 1922 by Prince Youssef Kamal, originally organized the Spring Exhibition, a precursor to the Cairo Salon. Over the years, the Salon has evolved into a cornerstone of the Egyptian and Arab art world, celebrating creativity and artistic excellence.
After the formal opening, Minister Hanno toured the art exhibition held on the margins of the event. The exhibition features 175 artistic works by distinguished artists like el-Desouki Fahmy and Helmy el-Touni, both of whom are set to be honored during the salon for their contributions to the artistic movement in Egypt and the Arab region.
Minister Hanno described the Cairo Salon as a vital artistic event that occupies a fundamental place among Egypt’s artistic forums. “Interest in the arts reflects the progress societies have reached, and it enhances societies’ cultural identity,” the minister said. He praised the Salon’s successes over the years, noting that it has become a key platform for creativity and artistic innovation. “It has brought many artistic talents up to the light and significantly enriched and strengthened the artistic movement in our country and our region,” he added.**
This year’s edition coincides with the centenary of the Society of Fine Arts Lovers. Society President Ahmed Nawar proposed celebrating both milestones simultaneously. The new edition of the salon will feature several exhibitions showcasing the works of leading local artists, including Mahmoud Saeed, Bikar, Ahmed Sabry, and others. Nawar also proposed connecting artists of different generations by inviting past award winners from the Youth Salon, which has been running since 1989.
Visitors to the Cairo Salon can expect a rich array of artistic displays that span various styles and mediums, reflecting the evolving art landscape of Egypt and the Arab world. The event aims to provide a platform for both emerging and established artists, offering them opportunities to showcase their work, gain exposure, and exchange ideas.
The Cairo Salon has a storied history, with its roots tracing back to the first art event organized by the Society of Fine Arts Lovers in 1922. The Society itself is the oldest non-governmental organization specializing in the artistic field in Egypt. The Cairo Salon’s inaugural exhibition was held on March 7, 1924, marking the beginning of a long series of exhibitions that have significantly impacted the art community in Egypt.
Prince Youssef Kamal, the founder of the Egyptian School of Fine Arts, played a crucial role in establishing the Society and the Salon. Over the years, the Salon has succeeded in providing emerging artists with tangible experiences that have honed their artistic skills and sharpened their talents. The Society of Fine Arts Lovers continues to preserve the Salon’s original values, ensuring that it remains a vital platform for artistic expression and innovation.
As the Cairo Salon celebrates its 60th edition and the centenary of the Society of Fine Arts Lovers, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to reflect cultural identity and societal progress. The event continues to be a beacon of creativity, bringing together artists from different generations and offering them a platform to showcase their talents. Visitors can look forward to an inspiring exhibition that celebrates the rich artistic heritage of Egypt and the Arab world.
