BRITT BOUTROS-GHALI

Britt Boutros-Ghali, a world-class artist following the tradition of the abstract expressionist and colorfield giants, such as Joan Mitchell and Helen Frankenthaler, from the 1950s forward is a celebrated Norwegian-Egyptian artist who has spent the last five decades living and working in Egypt, where she is an integral part of the country's artistic community. Her art, characterized by vibrant colors and large-scale energetic paintings, draws inspiration from Egypt's rich and exotic culture. Employing "action painting.” Her work embodies a sense of spontaneity and creativity coming from within. Britt divides her time between Cairo and Egypt's North Coast, some 20 km west of Alexandria, and has studios in both locations. Her home and atelier are a creative sanctuary infused with her intricate mosaics and murals inspired by the region. Local artists, collectors, and individuals with a penchant for the unique frequently gather at her home, while art enthusiasts from around the world journey to meet her and acquire her work. Britt has been exhibited worldwide since her first exhibition in Paris in 1962 and is held in many public and private collections. In 1996, she received the prestigious St. Olav's Order, Norway's highest artistic honor, from King Harald for her cultural and creative contributions. In 2023, she accepted a lifetime achievement award from the Egyptian National Council for Women, a significant recognition in her adopted homeland. Born in 1937 in Svolvaer, Norway, Britt is equally influenced by her childhood experiences, marked by the stark seasonal contrasts of light and darkness, harsh weather, and the backdrop of World War II.