On 7 October, the first edition of ALDAU International Art Festival (AIAF) held in the Red Sea resort of Hurghada from 2 – 7 October 2022 came to a close.
The six-day festival was held under the auspices of the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. It was organised by ADD Art, the art subsidiary of ALDAU Development, a member of Sami Saad Holding Group.
A statement released by ALDAU Development informed that ADD Art aims to be a key player in adding value to the company through art and artists. AIAF’s aim was to promote cross-cultural dialogue and produce iconic artworks.
The theme of AIAF was inspired by the ALDAU (Al Dhow), a traditional Arabian sailing vessel that served in trade, achieving cross-cultural exchange in the process.
The festival hosted artworks by 40 artists handpicked from all around the world: from the US, UK, France, Jordan, Tunis, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Congo, Sudan, Egypt and others. They worked side by side for a week by the Red Sea, creating artworks, exploring ideas and renewing cross-cultural dialogue.
The artworks drew on enigmatic themes, paintings, and metamorphic sculptures, and reflected the artists’ ardent love of art. The works were displayed at ALDAU Exhibition Hall, Hurghada, from October 2nd until October 7th for visitors and tourists alike.
The exhibition had been opened by the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Ahmed Eissa, together with the Red Sea Governor Amr Hanafi, and Chairman of ALDAU Development, Bassel Sami Saad. They talked to the artists and discussed their artworks.
The opening event featured Egypt’s legendary composer and pianist Omar Khairat whose performance put big smiles on the faces of his audience.
Earlier, ALDAU Development had held a press conference attended by Mr Eissa; Lars Geweyer, CEO of ADD HOC; Tarek al-Masry, General Manager of Hotels Division, ALDAU Development; and Malak Shenouda, Head of Arts and Events at ALDAU.
Each artist was given a certificate of honour for exceptional work, also an interview discussing their most recent masterpieces.
Watani International
9 October 2022