Vibrant Calligraphic and Floral Abstraction, 2018

Israa Hassanein is an Egyptian visual artist renowned for her innovative use of unconventional materials, particularly food items, to create intricate artworks. Born in 1994, she graduated from the Faculty of Education, specializing in Psychology. From a young age, Hassanein exhibited a passion for art, often repurposing leftover food and beverages like coffee, tea, and chocolate to craft detailed portraits and depictions of iconic landmarks. Her subjects range from renowned figures in sports and entertainment to significant religious and tourist sites, including the Great Pyramids and the Kaaba.

Hassanein's distinctive approach has garnered attention, leading to her participation in several prominent art exhibitions. She showcased her work at the "Lamasat" exhibition, where she presented pieces like "World Towers" rendered in coffee and a Valentine's-themed artwork. At the "Lamsa Fan" exhibition held at the Al-Ahram Art Gallery, her rendition of the "Mona Lisa" using nescafé earned her an Oscar and a certificate of appreciation. Additionally, her piece "Egyptian Landmarks," which intricately combines 30 sites painted with tea, coffee, and nescafé, was displayed at the Cairo Tower exhibition, receiving widespread acclaim.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Hassanein is committed to promoting art accessibility. She initiated the "Draw on Everything" campaign, encouraging the use of coffee to paint on diverse surfaces, from bags to wooden frames and embroidery. Her ambition is to share her art globally, aiming to establish galleries worldwide and support emerging talents in unconventional art forms.