Stone Archway in Old City Alley, 2018

Mohammed Desouki, born on April 25, 1967, in Qalyubia, Egypt, is a distinguished visual artist renowned for his dedication to documenting Egypt's architectural heritage. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy (1990) and a Diploma from the High Institute of Folk Arts (2004), Desouki has devoted over three decades to capturing the essence of traditional Egyptian villages through his paintings. His work predominantly focuses on the mud-brick and adobe structures characteristic of rural Egypt, emphasizing the environmental architecture that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.

Desouki's artistic journey has been marked by numerous solo exhibitions, including "South Inspiration" at the Cairo Atelier in 1991 and "Egyptian Nature Inspiration" at the Egyptian Center of the International Cultural Cooperation in 1995. His deep connection with the village of Qurna in Luxor led him to produce a series of works that meticulously document its traditional architecture before modern developments altered its landscape. This dedication culminated in multiple exhibitions, notably "Panorama of Qurna, Cemetery" in 1996. Beyond Egypt, Desouki's art has been showcased internationally, with exhibitions in Germany and France, reflecting his commitment to sharing Egypt's rich cultural tapestry with a global audience.

In addition to his visual art, Desouki has contributed significantly to cultural preservation through research and publications. He participated in the "Millennium Encyclopedia" by the General Authority for Cultural Palaces and authored a book documenting the history of the Ramadan lantern. His efforts extend to compiling visual records of over 50 traditional crafts for the Folklore Society, underscoring his dedication to safeguarding Egypt's intangible heritage. Desouki's works are held in various esteemed collections, including the Museum of Modern Egyptian Art and several international embassies, attesting to his impact on both national and international art scenes.