Revolution in a Spray Can
Ammar Abo Bakr
DIVAZ x ELYANNA
Ammar Abo Bakr, famously known as “Dibbanah,” is an Egyptian visual artist renowned for his
wall paintings and innovative works in mixed media. His unique style reflects his creativity in using various materials and drawing inspiration from daily life on the streets. Throughout his artistic journey, Dibbanah has participated in numerous popular celebrations, which form an integral part of his artistic identity. His works emerge from the interaction of people in public spaces, markets and everyday moments, blending local culture with contemporary art. DIVAZ sat down with the artist to hear all about his journey and different endeavors.
Tell us about your background. How have your cultural experiences shaped your identity, not just as a designer/artist but as a person?
I was born in Minya and finished high school there. After that, I moved to study Fine Arts in Luxor in 1999, and graduated in 2000-2001. I lived in Luxor and the surrounding areas for about 16 years of my life, until I decided in 2012 to move to Cairo. My time in a place like Luxor had a profound
impact on me, and the experiences there continue to influence the elements I draw inspiration from to this day. I also gained a lot from my time in Cairo after moving there, which broadened my cultural and artistic perspective.
Why did you choose this artistic path and style? What are the key influences that contributed to shaping your aesthetic taste?
I always try to draw inspiration from the streets and from people’s daily lives. I believe that the creativity exhibited by ordinary people in the streets, markets, and during public celebrations is more important than anything an artist could try to do. For example, I get inspired by how street vendors display their products or by other daily behaviors, as long as they involve some form of composition or distinctive style. I consider these spontaneous actions to be the real artistic value from which I derive my ideas and try to present them in different places.
Tell us about your studies and how they have influenced your creative approach?
I didn’t enjoy education in general, but I was fortunate that my high school grades allowed me to enter the Faculty of Fine Arts, which was the only field I was truly convinced about. Additionally, the opportunity to work as a teaching assistant in the college helped me continue because my five years at the university were not enough. That opportunity gave me more time to break away from traditional approaches and discover new places, including the southern region, which had a significant impact on shaping my artistic style.
When working, is there a specific place or experience you mentally return to for inspiration?
Sometimes, when I’m drawing in the street, surrounded by thousands of people, whether in a protest or in a moment of joy, I feel that these moments are my true source of inspiration. These moments are full of energy and interaction, and I feel sad because some of my colleagues or friends, who could have shared this experience with me, choose to stay at home. It’s this interaction with people that gives me a strong feeling of doing something genuine.
Can you describe a day in your creative process
No two days are alike for me. I work on projects that have deadlines, but I don’t draw much anymore. I used to sketch a lot, but eventually I got bored with that. Now, I am more interested in materials and I want to work on different kinds of art using various media, not just drawing.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your journey?
The biggest challenge for me is that I have to follow a specific path to be accepted as an artist. This is my struggle — I don’t want to follow the path that everyone else takes. I always try to create works that are unique and different, something that no one else presents in the same way I do.
What is the next chapter in your professional journey?
In the next three years, I have big ambitions. My goal is to display my works in museum-quality showcases, ensuring that each piece is presented in a way that honors its history, presence and impact on people.
Who's your 'Diva'?
My late friend Assem Abdel Hamid, may he rest in peace, was the person who influenced me the most. Our friendship lasted for over 20 years. He impacted me on many levels, and his passing deeply affected me.
