Drawing on his previous involvement in iconic events such as the Royal Mummies Parade and the opening of the Avenue of Sphinxes in Luxor, Khawaga sheds light on the creative process, challenges, and sense of pride behind his work.
Ahram Online (AO): How were you selected to participate in the GEM opening?
Ahmed Khawaga (AK): I had previously participated in several major national events as a makeup artist, including the Royal Mummies Parade and the opening of the Avenue of Sphinxes in 2021.
I’ve also contributed to several other national celebrations. Based on that experience, I was chosen to join the Grand Egyptian Museum inauguration as the head of the makeup team.
AO: What aesthetic principles guided your makeup designs for the event?
AK: The makeup concepts evolved through several stages. Since my earlier participation in the Mummies Parade and the Avenue of Sphinxes, I had held meetings with the then Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, during which we discussed the visual heritage and aesthetic traditions of ancient Egypt.
I focused on studying how the ancient Egyptians used pigments and applied makeup, drawing inspiration from statues, wall carvings, and temple paintings. These references guided the artistic direction I adopted for the event, ensuring authenticity while maintaining visual harmony for the performances.
AO: Does Pharaonic-style makeup require more effort than modern makeup?
AK: Certainly. Pharaonic makeup demands greater precision, patience, and time.
However, through my previous experiences, I have become more familiar with the techniques and materials involved, which now allows me to execute such looks more smoothly and efficiently than before.
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AO: What were the main challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
AK: The challenges were significant. We were a large team that worked for nearly six months, preparing continuously and holding almost daily rehearsals before the event.
Over 2,000 participants took part in this historic celebration, which required strict organization and teamwork to ensure that everything met the global standards expected of Egypt’s cultural showcase.
AO: How did it feel to take part in such a globally significant event?
AK: It isn’t easy to describe in words. Being part of the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum is a great honour. I feel immense pride and happiness at having contributed to an event that highlights Egypt’s ancient civilisation, a civilisation that continues to inspire and fascinate the world.
AO: How was the collaboration between you, the hairstylists, and the costume designers?
AK: We worked together in a spirit of unity and shared vision.
Having previously collaborated on the Royal Mummies Parade and the Avenue of Sphinxes, we had already established a strong sense of trust and understanding. I believe that makeup, hair, and costume design are interconnected elements that must complement one another.
We exchanged feedback and ideas with flexibility, ensuring the final presentation reflected a cohesive artistic vision worthy of Egypt’s name.
AO: What projects are you currently working on?
AK: I’m preparing to take part as a makeup artist in several upcoming television dramas, working with prominent actresses such as Jumana Murad, Riham Haggag, and Rogina, among others.
These works are scheduled to air during the next Ramadan season. I will also be participating in the Police Day celebrations.
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