Dramatizes a pivotal historical event in Edinburgh's setting, as depicted by Wael Shawky
In the world of contemporary art, Egyptian artist Wael Shawky continues to make waves with his unique blend of history, myth, and fiction. Known for his meticulous research and metaphorical approach, Shawky's works have been showcased at prestigious venues worldwide, including the Venice Biennale, MoMA PS1, Tate Modern, and Serpentine Galleries.
This summer, Shawky's work is taking centre stage at two significant events: the Edinburgh International Festival and LUMA Arles.
At the Talbot Rice Gallery in Edinburgh, Shawky's third film in the trilogy, The Secrets of Karbala, will be presented until 28 September 2025. The film, which features muted colours and exaggerated, almost cuddly caricatures of puppets, traces the history leading up to the Venetian attack on Constantinople in 1204. The glass puppets from The Secrets of Karbala are also on display in Edinburgh, suspended from their strings, adding an enchanting element to the exhibition.
This exhibition in Edinburgh not only showcases Shawky's work but also questions the status quo of the institution it sits in. The gallery presents drawings and mixed-media works, lesser-seen aspects of Shawky's practice, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of his artistic journey.
Meanwhile, at LUMA Arles, Shawky's latest exhibition, titled I Am Hymns of the New Temples, features sculpture and objects from the film. This exhibition follows the goddess Gaia through Pompeii under the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, offering a thought-provoking exploration of ancient figures and myths.
Shawky's work in LUMA Arles is part of a larger eight-part opera and film work, Drama 1882 (2024), which was one of the most popular works at the Venice Biennale 2024. The opera, performed in classical Arabic, blends film, music, drawing, puppetry, and performance to depict the 'Urabi revolt in Egypt.
In addition to his artistic practice, Shawky is also making strides in art education. He founded MASS Alexandria, an independent art school for emerging artists, in 2015. Since 2024, he serves as Artistic Director of Doha’s Fire Station and was appointed Artistic Director for the inaugural edition of Art Basel Qatar in 2026, focusing on regional narrative and artistic dialogue.
The Edinburgh International Festival will take place from 1-24 August, providing art enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Shawky's thought-provoking works. Don't miss this chance to experience the fusion of history, myth, and contemporary art that is signature to Wael Shawky's work.
References:
- Wael Shawky
- Tate Modern
- The Art Newspaper
- The Guardian
- Visitors to the Talbot Rice Gallery in Edinburgh this summer can enjoy not only Wael Shawky's film, The Secrets of Karbala, but also his innovative blend of music and puppetry, which is a captivating aspect of his work.
- Furthermore, the exhibition at LUMA Arles, I Am Hymns of the New Temples, showcases Wael Shawky's sculpture and objects, and it is an extension of his opera, Drama 1882 (2024), where music plays a significant role in narrating the 'Urabi revolt in Egypt.
