Interview
Sherine Helal
Sherine Helal , born in 1986, is an Egyption artist and fashion designer.
She graduated from The American University in Cairo with a Bachelor degree in Journalism, with a concentration in Marketing and Art.
Sherine is the owner of the Sherine Helal Boutique, and was named as ‘One of the most influential people to look out for in 2021’ by the NYC Journal.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I studied Journalism and Art at The American University in Cairo. I knew I was talented in painting, drawing, and in arts and crafts since I was in high school - I started entering exhibitions at the age of 18.”
“I would describe my work as having a vintage, primal aesthetic.”
What inspires you most?
“I’m inspired by the expressionist and the impressionist era. The moment I saw Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’ is when I decided that my style of painting would inspire me to paint like it; to use the palette knife.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“All my paintings hold a pharaonic or ancient history theme.
My message is to create paintings out of an historic era, like that of the ancient Egyptians in an artistic manner.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Monet and Van Gogh are my biggest inspirations.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist's role is to spread positivity through art; maybe even street art if they can!
Fashion designers are now also inspired by art and use art throughout their designs.”
“I look at bits and pieces of Ancient Egyptian history, study them, and then let the information inspire me to create my own representations of this grand history.”
Please tell us about any previous exhibitions you found noteworthy and wish to share.
“My latest exhibition was at Lamasatt Gallery. The theme was ‘Art Figure’, which had us paint a figure of our choice.”
Instagram: @sherinehelalboutique
