Crowded City Streets with Many Figures, 2023

Hayam AbdelBaky, born in 1972 in Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt, is a prominent contemporary artist known for her vibrant and expressive paintings. She earned her M.A. in Visual Arts with a focus on oil painting from Ain Shams University in 2002 and a Ph.D. in Art Theory from Cairo University in 2010. Her work often explores themes central to Egyptian culture, particularly the role and representation of women, employing a style that blends modern Egyptian aesthetics with a contemporary approach to figurative art.

AbdelBaky's paintings are characterized by bold, saturated colors—yellows, reds, oranges, and greens—that celebrate the vitality of her subjects. The female figure is central to her oeuvre, frequently depicted in forms that symbolize pride and resilience. Her works also incorporate elements from Egyptian vernacular culture, such as the bride-doll associated with Moulid El Nabawi celebrations, representing hope and the nation's rich heritage. Through her art, she captures vignettes of contemporary life, portraying scenes of women gathered over coffee or bustling marketplaces, thereby celebrating the humanity inherent in daily life.

Throughout her career, AbdelBaky has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions both in Egypt and internationally. Notable exhibitions include her 2018 show at Ubuntu Gallery in Zamalek, Cairo, which featured 70 artworks reflecting her unique style and thematic focus. Her works are part of several esteemed collections, such as the Egyptian Modern Art Museum, the National Visual Arts Center of Egypt, and the Egyptian Ministry of Culture. Additionally, her art is held in private collections across Morocco, Poland, Benin, France, Switzerland, the United States, Dubai, and Qatar.