The Gouna Image Week is set to return for its second edition from December 3-12, 2026, in the Egyptian city of Gouna. This year's event promises to be an exciting one, with a range of photographic exhibitions that showcase the best of Egyptian and international photography. The event is organized by Fotopia, a company that aims to promote photography as a tool for preserving cultural memory and documenting artistic and human transformations.

One of the highlights of this year's Gouna Image Week is the exhibition "Umm Kulthum in Paris," which celebrates the life and career of the legendary Egyptian singer. The exhibition features photographs of Umm Kulthum's concerts in Paris, showcasing her performances on stage and her interactions with the audience. The photos, taken by several photographers, offer a unique glimpse into the singer's career and her impact on Arabic music.

Another exhibition that is sure to attract attention is the one showcasing the work of Studio Mohamed Bakar, which has been documenting Egyptian cinema for over 70 years. The exhibition features photographs of Egyptian movie stars and behind-the-scenes shots of film productions, offering a fascinating look at the history of Egyptian cinema. The exhibition includes works by Mohamed Bakar and his father, the late photographer Hussein Bakar.

According to Mervat Abou Lila, Executive Director of Gouna Image Week and co-founder of Fotopia, the event aims to promote photography as a tool for preserving cultural memory and documenting artistic and human transformations. She notes that photography has the power to preserve details that may be forgotten over time and to present history in a new and interesting way.

The Gouna Image Week also aims to bring together photographers, artists, and enthusiasts from Egypt and around the world to share their work and exchange ideas. The event will feature a range of activities, including workshops, lectures, and exhibitions, and will provide opportunities for emerging photographers to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals.

The second edition of the Gouna Image Week takes place four years after the first edition, which was held in 2022. This year's event promises to be just as exciting, with a range of exhibitions and activities that celebrate the art of photography. The event will feature participants from Egypt, France, Italy, England, and Saudi Arabia, among other countries.

Overall, the Gouna Image Week is an important event that promotes photography and cultural exchange. With its range of exhibitions and activities, it offers something for everyone, from photography enthusiasts to artists and historians. The event is a testament to the power of photography to preserve cultural memory and promote understanding between different cultures.

Key points

  • The Gouna Image Week will feature exhibitions on Umm Kulthum's concerts in Paris and the history of Egyptian cinema.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.