Magda Saad El Din, was born on July 26, 1952, in Monufia, Egypt. Her childhood and adolescence were spent in a grand house overlooking the Shibin El Kom River, a significant tributary of the majestic Nile. Magda embarked on her artistic journey by enrolling in the Faculty of Fine Arts in Alexandria in 1970, culminating in a Bachelor’s degree in 1975.
Her passion for art and intellectual curiosity led her to the Higher Institute of Art Criticism at the Academy of Arts. Magda’s academic pursuits were extensive, resulting in a higher education diploma in 1982, a master’s degree in 1985, and the attainment of a PhD in 1990. Seeking a broader perspective on artistic and cultural realms, she traveled to Paris in 1990 and returned in 1991, enriched with experiences that would shape her future work.
Magda’s artistic expressions found a platform in numerous solo exhibitions, notably in Paris at Étienne de Caussin Gallery (1990) and in Egypt at various venues, including the Arab League delegate’s office, the Near East Center, and the Egyptian Cultural Center (1991). Her work often centers on oil painting, with a distinctive focus on the contrast between light and shade, inspired by ancient Egyptian art.
Upon her return to Egypt in 1991, Magda delved into the study of Egyptian culture at Cairo University’s Faculty of Archaeology. She expanded her skills by exploring leather pyrography, printing, and jewelry design at the Faculty of Art Education in Zamalek.
Magda’s academic journey continued as she joined the Higher Institute of Art Criticism as a Lecturer in 1992, steadily progressing to become a Full Professor in 2005. Currently holding the position of Professor Emeritus since 2012, she remains deeply involved in the academic discourse of art criticism.
In 1999, Magda undertook a scientific mission to Paris, leading to the authorship of two significant books: “Religious Architecture in Europe” and “Mosques, the Empires of Monotheism.” Her explorations extended to Rome, Netherlands, Belgium, Portugal, and Southern Spain, inspiring her writing and leading to exhibitions in 1999 and 2019.
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Magda has made remarkable contributions to literature, with an extensive list of critical and literary works. Her books, including “The Beam of Light,” “The Glory and Beauty of the Sea and the Nile,” and “The Book of Existence,” showcase her diverse interests and intellectual depth.
Magda’s impact on the art community extends beyond her personal creations. She launched the Plastic Criticism Beginners competition and Art of Architecture Beginners competition in 2011, furthering the artistic dialogue in Egypt. Her role as a lecturer at the Faculty of Fine Arts, the Higher Institute of Ballet, and the Cairo Conservatoire emphasizes her commitment to education and nurturing young talent.
Recognized for her achievements, Magda received nominations for prestigious awards, such as the Arab Thought Award (2007), Arts Award of the Association of Art Lovers (2008), and King Faisal Award for Arabic language and literature (2015, 2019). Her involvement in various exhibitions, jury committees, and lectures both in Egypt and abroad illustrates her dedication to fostering artistic dialogue.
Magda’s travels have not only taken her across continents but have also fueled her artistic inspiration. From the Egyptian desert Sinai to Upper Egypt and Al Wahat, each journey has left an indelible mark on her work. The themes of light and shade, palm trees, and sailing boats, drawn from her childhood in Shibin El Kom, consistently feature in her paintings.
In recent years, Magda remains a vibrant force in the art scene. Her participation in events like Al Ahram Salon and the Venice Biennale Art Festival, along with her contributions to book discussions and new publications, underscores her enduring influence. Magda Saad El Din continues to be a beacon in the world of art, bridging cultures, and leaving an indelible mark on the rich tapestry of Egyptian artistic heritage.
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