03/10/2026
Art… in a Minute
Brought to you by Dina Fahmy El Rouby
In this episode you will discover three paintings in
one!
Executed by the great Egyptian artist Omar El Nagdi (1931–2019), known for his distinctive visual language, dynamic compositions, and remarkable ability to work on a monumental scale.
This collection of works offers a glimpse into the remarkable diversity of El Nagdi’s artistic practice. The first work, created in 2006, measures 150 × 150 cm and is made using sand and oil paint on canvas. Working on such a large scale can be challenging, as maintaining a strong composition across a vast surface requires remarkable control. El Nagdi was particularly known for his ability to master large formats while maintaining the strength and balance of his compositions.
The second work, Kaaba, created in 1972, explores his distinctive calligraphic style, incorporating Arabic letters within the form of the Kaaba. Using green and blue outlined in black, this work represents one of the rarer examples of his calligraphic works, particularly for its combination of Arabic calligraphy and the Kaaba.
The third work, created in 1996, reveals yet another side of El Nagdi’s artistic language. Vibrant colors overlap and intertwine around two human figures, creating a composition in which every element feels unique.
Together, these three works reveal the remarkable range of an artist who continuously explored different styles, techniques, and ways of building his own visual world.
Artwork 1
Artist: Omar El Nagdi (1931–2019)
Year: 2006
Media: Oil and sand on canvas
Size: 150 × 150 cm
Artwork 2
Artist: Omar El Nagdi (1931–2019)
Title: Kaaba
Year: 1972
Media: Oil on canvas
Size: 61 × 61 cm
Artwork 3
Artist: Omar El Nagdi (1931–2019)
Year: 1996
Media: Oil on canvas
Size: 52.5 × 64.5 cm
