Wael Shawky

About the project

Wael Shawky produces spectacular film series based on literature and historical narratives, using a visual language that mixes fictional storytelling and documentary styles. The exhibition presents two newly completed film trilogies, each inspired by stories and scripts of literature; Cabaret Crusades (2010-2014) draws on Amin Maalouf’s novel The Crusades through Arab Eyes (1983) while Al Araba Al Madfuna (2012-2015) collages the stories of Mohamed Mustagab with the artists experience living in Upper Egypt. Over fifty ceramic and glass marionettes from the Cabaret Crusades, and drawings from both series share insight on the making of the films.