Roots and Horizons: Modern Egyptian Sculpture in a Socio-Political Context

Manal Helal is a distinguished Egyptian contemporary artist, sculptor, academic, and parliamentarian. She currently holds the position of Professor of Sculpture Design and serves as Head of the Department of Sculpture, Architectural Design, and Restoration at the Faculty of Applied Arts, Helwan University, Egypt. 

A multidisciplinary practitioner, Professor Helal’s oeuvre encompasses painting, ceramics, digital sculpture, and product design, with particular emphasis on material innovation involving aluminum, copper, clay, and PVC. Her artistic research explores the intersection of classical sculptural traditions and contemporary abstraction, often drawing inspiration from modernist figures such as Henry Moore and Constantin Brancusi. Since the outset of her academic career, Professor Helal has been an active figure in Egypt’s fine art movement, contributing to numerous national and international exhibitions. Her most recent solo exhibition, Revival of Bastet, was held at Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK, and exemplifies her ongoing engagement with cross-cultural artistic discourse. 

In parallel with her artistic endeavors, Professor Helal has made significant contributions to public service and education. She is a former member of the Egyptian Parliament, a certified trainer at the National Training Academy, and an industrial design engineering consultant. She has represented Egypt in various international academic exchanges and artist residencies, with her works featured in prominent collections across Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Deeply committed to the transformative potential of the arts, Professor Helal regards creative practice as a vital force for fostering social awareness and cultural advancement.

(The primary language of this lecture is English)