MEHRI FODA
EXPLORING PAINT AND COLLAGE
At the heart of Mehri's practice lies a profound passion for bold colour palettes and fluid movements, echoing her emotions, spirit, and chosen subject matter. Each brushstroke carries the weight of her experiences, inviting viewers into a world where colours dance freely across the canvas, evoking a sense of wonder and exploration.
Mehri Foda,
Tutti Frutti on a Table,
Acrylic on canvas, 40.6 x 40.6 cm
-
Welcome to Mehri Foda's exhibition, ‘Exploring Paint and Collage’. This collection showcases her artistic journey and evolution, celebrating cultural richness and creativity. Born in Cairo in 1950, Mehri's career has been shaped by influential mentors and a lifelong dedication to her craft.
In 1994, Mehri studied figure painting at the Slade School of Fine Arts under the guidance of portrait and figurative artist Aris Raissis. These formative years were pivotal for her artistic development.
In 1999, Mehri began working with artist and teacher Bobby Gill. Under his mentorship, she embraced abstraction, drawing inspiration from artists like Morandi, Lee Krasner, Ivon Hitchens, and Matisse. This period significantly influenced her style, adding depth and complexity.
Mehri's first solo exhibition occurred in 2019 at the Gezira Art Centre in Cairo, showcasing her exploration across various mediums, including oils, pastels, gouache, acrylics, and collage. Her versatile body of work reflects her mastery of form and creativity.
Mehri's art seamlessly transitions between abstraction and representation while maintaining her distinctive style. Her works are layered with cultural influences, reflecting her experiences in Europe and the Middle East. Mehri invites viewers to explore the intersection of culture, emotion, and artistic expression through her compositions.
Her bold colour palettes and fluid movements are central to Mehri's art, echoing her emotions and spirit. Each brushstroke invites viewers into a world of vibrant colours and dynamic forms.
Mehri Foda's work dissolves boundaries and speaks to the universal language of creativity, inviting us to embrace the transformative power of art and embark on a journey of self-discovery and reflection.
Hester Baldwin, 2024
