Like a cross section, Roznama exhibition and competition takes a slice of the art scene, showcasing Egyptian young artists while giving them a rewarding space for experimentation.
Taking place in three galleries this year, Roznama opened on 4 September at its headquarters in Medrar for Contemporary Art, its longtime partner Mashrabiya Gallery, and its newest ally Soma art school and gallery.
Mohamed Allam, the founder and director of Medrar, told Ahram Online that though Roznama's direction hasn't changed, the project is expanding with many changes this year.
For the first time Medrar cooperated with Peacock, an organisation supporting art projects, which helped organise several aspects of Roznama and co-curated the exhibit with Allam.
"Even before Peacock appeared we were working on acquiring the prizes. It a very central aspect of the exhibition that motivates the participants, and it was important to develop it from last year, and to have a variety in them," Allam says.
Roznama's selected works showcase a breadth in subject matter; ranging from the social to the political to the personal, and in materials; from painting to embroidery to video.
Out of nearly 300 submissions, Roznama exhibits 36 selected projects; 16 of those are displayed at Medrar, and five have the bright yellow tag that marks all seven winners of the competition.
