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Framer Framed

Nermine Hammam

Nermine Hammam

Nermine Hammam (b. 1967) is a Cairo-based visual artist making densely composed figurative prints existing between painting and photography. Born in Cairo, Hammam obtained her BFA in filmmaking from New York University’s Tisch School of Arts, going on to work with Simon & Goodman and renowned film director Youssef Chahine. She also served as production assistant in the movie Malcolm X. She was a participating artist in the Framer Framed group exhibition Crisis of History #2: Fight History from 8 February to 8 March 2015, curated by Robert Kluijver.

Hammam’s work has been widely exhibited, and is included in public and private collections around the world. With human gesture as a central subject, it seeks out individuals in states of abandonment or altered consciousness, whether through transcendental spiritual ceremonies in different parts of the Middle East or a visit to the beach near Alexandria. Concerned with the subjective nature of reality, Hammam subverts the stereotype, unmasking it, in all its two-dimensionality, forcing us to question the limits of images we hold in our minds and mistake for truth. She is known for the distinct technique with which she reworks photography, addressing the influence of mass media and market stylization.

As the founder and creative director of Equinox Graphics, Hammam is also known for introducing art into the public space through innovative design and branding. She is behind some of Egypt’s most familiar brands, including Cilantro Café, Diwan Bookstores and the Deyafa group of restaurants and bars.

She currently lives and works in London.


Exhibitions


Exhibition: Crisis of History #2 - Fight History

Curated by Robert Kluijver