The second exhibition in the “Mozaik Euro- Mediterranean Art Hub” series opens on July 23, 2024, at the historic Károlyi Palace in Fehérvárcsurgó, presenting the remarkable outcomes of a month-long filmed art residency nestled in the heart of nature.
This engaging exhibition features the works of two exceptionally gifted visual artists: Mohab Abdelghaffar and Michael Gerber Touma.
Hosted by the Joseph Károlyi Foundation, the joint exhibition revolves around the theme “Identities: A Visual Dialogue.” It delves into the intricate aspects of identity through the artists’ creations, prompting viewers to consider the interconnectedness of personal and collective stories within the broader Mediterranean context.
The International Art Colony, an endeavour by the Interkulti Association for the Promotion of Intercultural Dialogue, welcomed these artists to Csókakő, a peaceful and picturesque rural village in West Hungary. This serene environment, free from modern life’s distractions, was crucial in nurturing creativity and inspiring artistic expression.
Driven by the mission to highlight contemporary art in the complementary shores of the Mediterranean, this exhibition underscores the power of art in building bridges, fostering dialogue, and promoting intercultural understanding. By presenting the finest contemporary art from this region, the exhibition seeks to create meaningful connections among diverse cultures.
As Pablo Picasso once said, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” This sentiment embodies the spirit of our initiative, emphasizing the transformative role of art in bringing people closer together.
MOHAB ABDELGHAFFAR
Born in 1959 in Alexandria, Egypt, Mohab Abdelghaffar has had a profound artistic journey intertwined with philosophical reflections on the relationship between art and nature.
A graduate of Alexandria University’s Faculty of Fine Arts, Abdelghaffar’s early exploration of the dichotomy between objective reality and subjective expression led him toward abstraction and non-objective art. His work uniquely blends modern abstract techniques with the symbolism of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Abdelghaffar’s evolution continued through postmodernism, resulting in a diverse body of prints and paintings that capture moments of human consciousness in the context of modern media and communication. His educational journey includes graphic studies at Humber College and a diploma in printmaking from OCAD University in Toronto. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Helwan University in Cairo.
Professionally, Abdelghaffar has held various roles, including supervising the printing press at United Arab Emirates University and working at the Toronto Star newspaper. He now thrives as a freelance visual artist, contributing significantly to the artistic landscape. Additionally, he is a published poet and a translator of visual art research papers, reflecting his multifaceted engagement with artistic expression. As the founder and administrator of the “From Image to Text” art critique group on Facebook, Abdelghaffar actively contributes to the dialogue surrounding visual arts in the Middle East. His extensive solo and group exhibition history attests to his exceptional talent and dedication.
Mohab Abdelghaffar lives both in Alexandrian, Egypt and Toronto, Canada.
Michael Gerber Touma
Born in 1956, is a multifaceted visual artist, writer, and poet whose work is profoundly influenced by his diverse cultural background.
His mother, Chaya Touma, a Jewish ceramic artist, and his father, Emile Touma, a Palestinian political historian and journalist, provided him with a unique and diverse perspective from an early age.
For Touma, painting is more than an artistic endeavour—it’s a vital means of navigating life’s complexities. His work, which often defies easy classification, represents a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and moral reflection. In his “Worlds” series, he uses collage techniques to connect the various cultural worlds he inhabits, from Jewish-Israeli to Palestinian, Russian, and English.
Touma’s educational path includes studies at the Art Academy in Dresden, the Berlin-Weißensee School of Art, and art history at the University of Haifa. He completed a master’s degree at Leipzig’s College of Graphics and Book Design under Professor Bernhard Heisig.
As a freelance artist, Touma has an extensive exhibition history, including solo and group shows in Haifa, Jerusalem, Leipzig, Havana, Los Angeles, Berlin, and Bonn. His artistic pursuits extend beyond traditional media, encompassing poetry, prose, storytelling, and video performances. He is actively involved in theater, readings, concerts, and video lectures, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape through collaborations, exhibitions, and scholarly engagements.
Touma’s work embodies a commitment to artistic exploration and dialogue, making him a significant figure in the contemporary art scene.
Michael Gerber Touma currently resides and works in Leipizig, Germany.
EXHIBITION OPENING
JULY 23, TUESDAY, 17:30
Venue: Károlyi Palace, Fehérvárcsurgó
Open Until 31 July
Daily between 10.00 – 18:00 Address:
8052 Fehérvárcsurgó Petőfi u.2, Hungary