Tintera is a white-walled gallery and consultancy that specializes in the photography of Egypt by Egyptians and foreigners. Established in 2019 by Heba Farid and Zein Khalifa, the vision was to raise awareness of the contemporary and historical side of Egypt through photography.
“Photography’s power is in documenting our lives, conceptually as well as through documentary approaches,” Farid tells Arab News. “As certain images of Egypt are ever-present in the global collective memory — images of monuments and conflict tend to be what remains — our mission is to be a destination where an alternative image of Egypt emerges.”
The exhibition area of their “Summer Portfolio” show is an example of their vision brought to life, with works of 20 artists presented together. A vision, to showcase one’s country through photography. The large collection of portfolio boxes, and framed and matted prints are on display. Visitors get the opportunity to handle the prints directly, provided they were gloves. This allows everyone to curate their selections by hanging the works on a thin hanging rail. The concept of allowing visitors hand fine-art photography is a rare treat that truly enhances the experience of the visitors.
Egypt is an exciting destination for photographers. Yes, there is the rich ancient culture of Egypt, but as Farid puts it, photographers visited Egypt for “its abundance of light.”
“Tintera is committed to elevating the status and value of fine art photography in Egypt,” Khalifa says. “We are exporting ‘another Egypt’ and, while doing so, building a strong collectors’ base, drawing the attention of curators, and engaging specialized and general audiences alike.”
Each photographer’s work presents a different view and experience of Egypt and its people. Highlights include works by Amina Kadous, an award-winning Egyptian photographer with a background in visual art. In her ongoing series “City Entrapped” she explores how portraits of iconic Egyptian public figures, such as Presidents Sadat and Nasser, still exist in many public spaces.
