Wael Shawky

Wael Shawky is an Egyptian contemporary artist, born in 1971 in Alexandria, known for his innovative and multidisciplinary practice that spans film, drawing, and performance. His work frequently delves into historical, cultural, and political narratives, offering reinterpretations of key moments in history from a non-Western perspective. Through his unique storytelling approach, Shawky explores the complexities of history, identity, and power, often questioning the way history is constructed and remembered. One of Shawky’s most renowned projects is his Cabaret Crusades trilogy (2010-2015), a series of films that retell the history of the Crusades from an Arab point of view using intricate marionettes. These films, based on Amin Maalouf’s book The Crusades Through Arab Eyes, subvert traditional Eurocentric narratives of the medieval wars between Europe and the Arab world. Shawky uses beautifully crafted puppets, made of materials like ceramic and wood, to create visually stunning yet deeply thought-provoking works that challenge the viewer's understanding of history and its biases.Shawky's work often examines the intersections of mythology, religion, and politics. In projects like Al Araba Al Madfuna (2012-2015), he explores oral storytelling traditions and the transmission of knowledge through generations. This two-part video series, set in rural Egypt, portrays children dressed as adults reenacting fables that blur the lines between reality and myth, reflecting on Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and the ways in which stories shape collective consciousness.Through his use of different mediums, Shawky creates immersive, layered experiences that encourage viewers to reflect on both past and present. His work frequently questions dominant historical narratives, offering alternative viewpoints and emphasizing the subjective nature of historical interpretation. By blending historical fact with fiction, Shawky’s art draws attention to the complexities of power, cultural memory, and the ways in which histories are written and passed down.Shawky has exhibited widely at major international venues, including MoMA PS1 in New York, the Serpentine Galleries in London, and the Venice Biennale, where his work has garnered significant critical acclaim. His ability to blend traditional storytelling methods with contemporary art practices has established him as one of the most innovative and important voices in global contemporary art. Through his reimagining of historical events and his engagement with cultural memory, Shawky continues to challenge and expand the way we think about history, identity, and art.