Riham ElSadany is an artist and scholar born in Cairo, Egypt. Her
worldview was shaped by a childhood of international transition; a
significant portion of her teenage years was formed in Saudi Arabia,
where she lived until the age of seventeen before returning to Cairo to
complete her formal education. Her career subsequently led her
through London and across Europe before she ultimately moved to the
United States. Her practice is deeply informed by an extensive academic
background, including a PhD and Master’s degree in Art Education,
which fosters her ongoing interest in the intersection of psychology and
philosophy. She refined her technical skills at the New York Academy of
Art, where she is a Painting Major and a Printmaking Minor. Her work
explores the human condition, memory, and identity, often blending
dramatic narratives with keen philosophical observation. Riham has
been represented in several international exhibitions through the
Egyptian government and has held numerous solo exhibitions. Her work
is featured in prestigious prominent collections, including the Modern
Art Museum in Cairo, the Dalloul Art Foundation in Lebanon, and the
Royal Family in Saudi Arabia.
The story
My earliest memories are drenched in a profound love for artistry. It wasn't just creating something beautiful; it was a quest to unearth the hidden stories. Colors and shapes became my language, a way to express the emotions and ideas that swirled within me – a language that resonated with teachers and classmates alike.
Art School nurtured this artistic voice, but I craved a deeper understanding. Higher education became a gateway to a vast art historical landscape. I delved into artistic movements and schools, enthralled by the whispers of hidden struggles, triumphs, and frustrations woven into the works of great masters.
These whispers – the unspoken yearnings, the quiet defiance, the sheer perseverance – resonated deeply within me. Art history wasn't a collection of dates and styles; it was a testament to the human spirit's unwavering pursuit of creative expression.
This insatiable curiosity about the 'between the lines,' the unspoken nuances, led me to performance art. Here, the act of creation became a dialogue, a way to push boundaries and forge connections with the audience. It was a crucible of self-discovery. As an introvert, it forced me to confront my comfort zone and connect on a deeper level. This artistic metamorphosis wasn't just about the art form; it was about personal growth and a newfound confidence in my artistic voice.
