Travel Inspo: Egypt
In celebration of our mom’s 80th birthday, my brother and I joined her on a dream trip to Egypt. Our journey took us through Cairo, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings. Together, we experienced the magic of Egypt’s ancient wonders, creating lasting memories along the way.
Cairo
Our first stop was Cairo where we were awestruck by the grandeur of the Great Pyramid of Giza and immersed ourselves in the rich history of Egypt at the fascinating Egyptian Museum. We savored the flavors of Egypt, enjoying traditional dishes at local restaurants from aromatic koshari to succulent grilled kebabs and flavorful falafels, our taste buds were in heaven! In Khan el Khalili bazaar, we had one of our favorite meals at famed Egyptian writer Naguib Mahfouz’s restaurant - winner of the Nobel Prize for literature in 1988. Everything was delicious. I still think about the bread and hummus.
Philae Temple
Aswan
After Cairo we flew south to Aswan where we visited Philae Temple and the engineering marvel of the High Dam. This is also where we began our cruise along the Nile which offered a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. (Bucket list: ✅)
We also got to visit a local family in their home. This is always such a treat to see how people really live. They were lovely and welcoming. I really wanted to make a stop at the historic Old Cataract Hotel, where Agatha Christie wrote "Death on the Nile" during her year-long stay. Unfortunately, we didn't have time on this trip, but it's definitely on my list for next time!
Kom Ombo Temple
Kom Ombo and Edfu
In Kom Ombo, we explored the unique temple dedicated to both Sobek and Horus, followed by a visit to the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Horus in Edfu.
Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple
Luxor and Karnak
Luxor's temples, including the grand Karnak Temple connected by the Avenue of Sphinxes, transported us to the grandeur of ancient Egypt. Walking among the grand statues during the Call to Prayer took me back to a very special moment in Fez, Morocco. Chills.
Valley of the Kings
Here, we visited the pharaohs' tombs, including the renowned resting place of Tutankhamun (King Tut!), a lasting tribute to their enduring legacy. Despite having only one afternoon to explore, it became clear that even a year would barely scratch the surface of this remarkable place. Our photos did not do them justice.
We were incredibly fortunate to be guided by Aziz, an Egyptologist who was knowledgeable, passionate, and patient. By the end of our trip, he had become more than a guide; he had become a friend, and our connection continues to this day.
Echos of Egypt
Several months after returning from my trip to Egypt, I felt inspired to start a project influenced by the experience. The handbuilt vessel featured below is titled Giza. First, I created a plaster mold of small pyramids. Using this mold, I produced multiple pyramids to adorn the piece. Then, I handbuilt the body using a slump mold that I also made. Finally, I glazed the charcoal clay body with a satin patina. I wanted to achieve an aged appearance reminiscent of the rich, gorgeous, sooty hues and textures found in Cairo and Giza. I am always drawn to objects that are a little wonky, weathered, and worn because they embody the history and essence of a place - tangible evidence of generations lived.
Giza, 2023. 6.5”H x 10”W x 10”D
Midnight Opulence: A glimpse into Egypt's allure through black and gold
Midnight Opulence is another vessel inspired by our Egypt adventure. It combines shiny, reflective gold with textured, raw, black clay, capturing the contrasts found in Egyptian art and architecture. Overall, the contrasts in Egyptian art arise from a harmonious blend of boldness and subtlety, intricacy and simplicity, making it a rich and timeless visual experience.
Egyptian architecture often showcases contrast through the juxtaposition of ancient structures, such as temples and pyramids, alongside more modern architectural additions such as the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Sadly, its much-anticipated opening was delayed and we were unable to visit.
This piece was specifically designed for Raku. I knew I could achieve the drama and contrast I wanted with this firing technique. First, I threw the base of the vessel on the wheel and then I embellished the surface with handbuilt “bricks”. Gold, revered for centuries, holds a special significance in Egyptian history. It was not only prized for its aesthetic appeal but also used to symbolize the divine and eternal. In ancient Egypt, gold was believed to have protective properties and was often incorporated into jewelry, tombs, and sacred objects.
Midnight Opulence, 2023. Raku-fired.
Midnight Opulence process
Travel Notes in Clay
Each place leaves its mark—stirring new gestures, and reshaping how I translate experience into form.
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