Grand Egyptian Museum’s First Exhibit Celebrates Khayamiya Traditions

The Grand Egyptian Museum launches its art programme with its first solo exhibition by Egyptian-German artist Susana Hefuna. Titled ‘Traces of Egypt’, the exhibit pays homage to traditional khayamiya crafts, weaving contemporary art with ancient Egyptian heritage, and reimagining the longstanding legacy of this unique art appliqué textile.

Derived from the Arabic word ‘kyma’ (tent), khayamiya was originally used in tents, and over time its signature colours have become synonymous with street weddings and funerals. The exhibit features 28 costumes made from Egyptian cotton and hand-embroidered khayamiya patterns, with bold colours and abstract shapes that recontextualizes the historic craft in a modern light.

The exhibit is currently running until June 19th. Visitors will be able to check it out by joining the museum’s new guided tours.