Celebrating the month of Ramadan, the “Madad” trio exhibition of paintings at Safarkhan gallery features newcomers Mohamed Hassan and Osman Young alongside Rana Chalabi. 

Dedicated to charity, the exhibition was curated around the unique yet universal concept of madad (divine aid), which the work attempts to demystify the notions of trust, gratitude and divine connection embodied in the concept. Remodelled Arabic calligraphy by Hassan and Young are supplemented by pensive geometric re-imaginations of Fatimid Cairo by Chalabi.

In this collection, Hassan’s works provide a minimalist, reconstructed form of Arabic calligraphy imbued with raw emotive power. Hassan’s captures the meaning of madad with passion and verve, his stylized script emanating spiritual energy. Using a monotone palette, he demonstrates an impressive style that delicately balances the ornate splendour of traditional Arabic calligraphy with his own innovative stamp. Hassan significantly uses other mediums such as old wood and stone, adding qualities of permanence and timelessness to his pieces.

The exhibition is on until 11 May. 

*A version of this article appears in print in the 22 April, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly