STROKES WITH A STATEMENT
OMAR GABR
Omar Gabr by Ämr Ezzeldin
Omar Gabr, an Egyptian visual artist whose work spans painting, sculpture, and carpet design, always seeks to express himself through his art. A deeply personal experience reshaped his artistic journey, making his creative process unique. DIVAZ sat down with Gabr to delve into his artistic perspective.
What type of art do you create?
I’m a visual artist. Most of my work consists of paintings, though I occasionally explore other mediums like sculpture or even carpet design. But I always come back to painting.
How did your relationship with painting begin?
I didn’t enjoy school, but painting made me stand out, so I spent a lot of time drawing. Later, I endured a long hospital stay, and painting became my way to cope. Afterward, I joined a group called El La’ta El Wahda (One Shot), which gathered every Friday to paint together. That experience helped me grow significantly and added a lot to my skillset.
Does your Egyptian and Arab identity influence your work?
Certainly. Artists are inevitably influenced by the environment they grow up and live in. This influence doesn’t have to manifest directly, like painting farmers or fields. Personal experiences also play a significant role.
How did you discover your unique style in composition and color?
It happened naturally at first—I didn’t even realize I was good at it. But Dr. Shady Al-Nashwati frequently comment on how my composition and use of color were distinctive. That awareness helped me focus on honing those aspects.
Who's an individual that had an influence on your artistic journey?
Mohamed Khader, a visual artist who has been like a mentor to me. I’ve learned so much from him, and even now, I turn to him whenever I need guidance.
What themes drive your work?
I’m inspired by the events around me and the challenges my generation faces. Curiosity also fuels my creativity and drives me to work.
Which of your works is closest to your heart?
My painting “Colonel of Catterinburg,” featured in my last exhibition, holds a special place in my heart. It portrays two individuals restrained by handcuffs, holding thorny flowers, with a sunset in the background. I used a combination of airbrushing and a palette knife technique to create a contrast in details.
Why do sunsets frequently appear in your paintings?
Sunsets are a constant presence around me because I live in open spaces. They evoke a mix of sadness and tranquility, so they naturally find their way into the backgrounds of most of my paintings.
Do you wish you had learned anything earlier in life?
Not at all. I believe in divine timing—everything I’ve experienced happened at the right moment. Art and creativity are primarily driven by emotions, and altering any element in the equation would change everything. I didn’t study art academically, which pushed me to immerse myself in diverse artistic schools and follow many artists. This way, I learned in a manner that suited me and helped me form a perspective I rely on in my work.
Was achieving success in the art world easy for you?
While my start was smooth, and many galleries welcomed me early on, the journey as a whole was full of challenges. Success doesn’t come easily, and that’s a lesson my journey has taught me.
Who is your Diva?
My life itself is my diva. The continuous drama in it serves as my main source of inspiration.
