Moe Elhossieny
Author
In their own words
Bringing these images into focus is imperative if we want to trace the emergence of distinct aesthetic qualities currently permeating the Egyptian cultural landscape across graphic design, music, fashion photography, and film.
Egyptian creative practitioners seem to always circle back to these subjects and themes, perhaps as part of an ongoing quest for a yet unrealised post-colonial identity.
Articles & interviews3
- Minimalism Is Stifling Authentic Arab Design
Written by Cairo correspondent Moe Elhossieny, this opinion piece critiques how minimalist aesthetics and Western design standards dominate Arab design discourse. Using the Grand Egyptian Museum branding as a case study, it argues that outsourcing major cultural projects to Western studios like Atelier Brückner and Studio Atrissi perpetuates a colonial hierarchy and stifles authentic regional expression. The article calls for stronger local design criticism to reclaim cultural authority and redefine what constitutes 'good design' in the Arab world.
- Egypt's Creatives Revive Calligraphy Amid Modern Challenges
The article explores Egypt’s renewed fascination with Arabic calligraphy, tracing its historical evolution and current resurgence among contemporary designers. It highlights the event Hadath Alkhatt, which unites calligraphers and designers, and features a new identity by Cairo-based studio Serious Play. The piece situates this revival within a broader cultural movement toward reclaiming visual authenticity and postcolonial identity.
- Exploring the Rise of the 'Made in Egypt' Aesthetic
Written by Cairo correspondent Moe Elhossieny, this article explores the rise of the 'Made in Egypt' aesthetic — a movement blending local street culture, traditional crafts, and post-internet visual experimentation. It contextualizes this aesthetic within Egypt’s colonial history and the ongoing negotiation between authenticity and Western influence. The piece highlights designers, studios, and photographers shaping Egypt’s contemporary visual identity.