Omar El Nagdi

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Omar El Nagdi (b. 1931 - d. 2019), often referred to as the "Egyptian Picasso", was a prolific artist whose work spanned over six decades. Born in Cairo, he studied at the Faculty of Fine Arts before refining his craft in Russia and Italy. El Nagdi's work is characterised by its bold experimentation with forms and styles, from Cubism and Expressionism to the Sufi-inspired Hurufiyya movement, in which he explored the mystical significance of Arabic calligraphy. A founding member of the Egyptian Mosaics Group alongside renowned writer Taha Hussein, El Nagdi's art captures the vibrant spirit of Egyptian life while addressing profound social and political themes. He was deeply influenced by the diverse cultures of rural Egypt and Cairo's Bab Al She’reya district, which imbued his work with a unique authenticity. El Nagdi’s work has been showcased at major venues such as the Venice Biennale and the Institut du Monde Arabe. His legacy is firmly preserved in prominent collections including The Museum of Modern Art in Venice, the Museum of Modern Art in South Korea, the Library of Congress, the White House, and the National Library in Paris. His art continues to be highly sought after, reflecting his lasting impact on the global art scene.