This Upper Egyptian Art Teacher Turned His Whole Village Into an Incredible Open Air Museum
By Nour El-Miligi
We all have our own means in countering boredom during this lockdown, but when one knows how to seize this free time opportunity well, they can do wonders! A 43-year-old Art teacher, Ahmed Al-Assad, has fulfilled his childhood dream of painting meaningful art on the houses of “Al Mokhada” Village in Qena. The paintings showcased Upper Egypt’s heritage, alongside hopeful messages full of positive vibes for the people who pass by.
“I only visited my village once or twice a year, but after the COVID-19 lockdown, I decided to settle down in my village’s enthralling dilapidated houses,” Al Assad mentioned. He further stated that it wasn’t easy at first for villagers to accept the idea and many have been making fun of him, that he had to start painting a deserted house first where no one lives; the owner died 80 years ago. He started his initiative back in March, and people gradually accepted what he’s doing. The village’s young men started to actually help him, using their own brushes and colors, even the ladies started providing food and beverages for the talented painters, creating an atmosphere full of warmth and collaboration.
What is magical about these paintings is that they were not drawn haphazardly, but rather upon each homeowners’ characteristics. So far, ten houses have been beautifully painted, citing that it takes 4 days and 700 Egyptian pounds for each house to be decorated.
“Silent and miserable” homes as he dubbed it, have magnificently turned into museum artworks that got a lot of praise and media coverage, raising awareness about the importance of preserving environmental beauty.
Scroll down to have a look at these masterpieces!
