Art, Identity & the Power of Pan-Arab Expression
MOATAZ NASR
Moataz Nasr by Ämr Ezzeldinn
Raised in an inspiring environment rich with art and creativity, Moataz Nasr, founder of Darb 1718, was profoundly influenced by his mother and aunt, who played pivotal roles in nurturing his love for art from an early age. From Alexandria to Italy and back to Cairo, his journey has been filled with experiences that brought him closer to the world of art. In an exclusive interview with DIVAZ, he reflects on his artistic beginnings, his connection to Alexandria and Italy and his vision for the future.
How did your relationship with art begin?
My relationship with art began with my late mother. She was a talented artist who painted, danced and played the piano. I would sit behind her as she painted with oil colors, inhaling the scent of the paints and watching her transform a blank canvas into a finished masterpiece. This world was utterly enchanting to me. My aunt was also an artist, skilled in precise ink drawings and rapid sketches, which inspired me greatly. In school, I was the class artist. Drawing connected me to others, helping me make friends. During art class, the teacher would often ask me to assist my classmates, which boosted my confidence. Art became my way of connecting with others, even before I realized its significance in my life.
Did you expect art to become your career?
I never imagined art would become my profession. For me, it was just a hobby and passion. Over time, though, I realized this childhood love was becoming my primary means of communication with people.
Was art your initial direction from the start?
No, I had initially planned to work in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. But by chance, I participated in a competition at a youth art salon and won an award. I felt it was a sign that I had to follow.
How do you perceive the role of an artist?
An artist’s primary role, in my view, is to act as a magnifying lens, focusing on the small things people encounter daily but don’t notice. The artist magnifies these elements, shedding light on them so people can either appreciate their beauty or strive to change their ugliness. Similarly, a cultural intellectual plays the role Aristotle described as the fly that hovers around a horse’s head to keep it awake. Society is the horse, and the intellectual is the fly, persistently nudging it to stay alert to what’s happening.
Courtesy of Moataz Nasr
What are some of the most impactful moments in your career?
There are many, such as winning the Grand Prize at the Cairo Biennale, which was a huge surprise for me as someone coming from abroad. Other moments include receiving messages from people expressing admiration for my work or strangers stopping me at airports to say they follow and love my art. These interactions deeply motivate me to keep going. For instance, once at an airport, a man and his wife expressed their appreciation for my work. Such moments reaffirm the value of what I do. One of the highlights of my career was also when a shopkeeper in a neighborhood I was photographing recognized my work and mentioned seeing one of my pieces at the Opera House 17 years earlier. His recognition and appreciation of my art were profound moments of success for me.
How did you develop your latest concept for the Louvre Abu Dhabi?
My concept was inspired by a simple yet historically and culturally significant element: “sky dolls” adorning castles, mosques and old homes. These stone figures, resembling people lined up together, caught my attention as they evolved over time. I decided to delve into their history. The origins of these figures trace back to the Roman era when they served as protective barriers for soldiers standing on castle walls. Soldiers could hide behind them for protection from arrows while simultaneously firing their own. Over time, these barriers took on different shapes and designs, becoming cultural symbols that reflect the art and history of each era.
How were you selected for the Louvre Abu Dhabi project?
There was an open call for 380 artists from the Arab world to submit their work, and only five were chosen. I was thrilled to be one of them. My work focused on reviving and illustrating these historical elements, which, although small, are vital parts of our heritage that often go unnoticed.
What is your philosophy for giving back to art and society?
Since 2002, I’ve dreamt of creating a cultural center because, at that time, cultural centers were the primary venues for contemporary art. In 2007, I founded Darb 1718.
What has Darb 1718 offered to artists?
We’ve worked with over 3,000 artists and introduced many talents across all fields. Numerous artists began their journeys with us, including rappers Afroto and Wegz. Offering these opportunities to emerging artists makes me feel the value of what I contribute.
How do you handle artistic inspiration when it strikes?
When inspiration comes, it’s nearly impossible to stop. The artwork feels like a living entity communicating with me, compelling me to keep going. Even when I have to take a break, I constantly think about it and can’t wait to return. This intense relationship with my art allows me to live fully in the moment.
How do you spend an ordinary day outside of painting?
My regular day varies between reading, exercising at the club, walking around Cairo to discover new things or meeting friends. Sometimes I visit Al-Jazira Club, which is near my home in downtown Cairo. Travel is also a significant part of my life. Recently, I’ve had artistic engagements in the Louvre Abu Dhabi, China, Paris, Havana, and now I’m working on a project in Chicago.
How do you manage your current art project in Chicago remotely?
The project is a large outdoor installation spanning 50 square meters. I oversee the work remotely using drones and daily updates from the team on-site, correcting details step by step.
Courtesy of the Artist
When do you find true joy?
My happiest moments are when I’m alone. Whether I’m painting, reading or simply doing nothing, this time represents a state of harmony for me. I love the quiet and deeply enjoy reflecting during these personal moments.
Who's you Diva?
Every person who has entered my life and taught me something is a 'diva' to me, even those who call themselves my enemies—I have learned a lot from them.
