Exploring 'From Thebes to Cairo' at Yossi Milo Gallery
Thursday mornings in Chelsea are the best, especially when you’re gallery hopping with a friend. This week, my friend Aaron and I decided to hit up a bunch of spots, and our highlight was definitely Yossi Milo Gallery. They have ann amazing show called "From Thebes to Cairo" by Ibrahim Said, and wow, it’s something else.
Right when we walked in, we were blown away by these incredible clay vases. The glaze finishes are stunning – it’s like looking at something magical. And we got the VIP treatment because Yossi himself gave us the tour. Having him explain the pieces made everything even more special. The engineering behind these sculptures is just mind-boggling. They’re not just pretty to look at; they’re like mini architectural wonders. I kept thinking that if I tried to make something like that, it’d end up as a sad lump of clay on the floor.
Ibrahim Said is an artist with roots in Egypt, and his work is all about blending his cultural heritage with a contemporary approach. He takes inspiration from ancient Egyptian pottery and Islamic arts, but then he gives it his own spin. The result? Works that feel ancient and contemporary at the same time.
One thing that really stands out in Ibrahim’s work is his use of geometry, as he explores big ideas like perfection, order, and infinity. One can really see these concepts come to life in his work. It possesses a timeless quality that’s both impressive and humbling.
Ibrahim is inspired by vase forms from the Naqada III period in Egypt (3200-3000 BCE) – these have strong lines and bold shapes that are just stunning. The delicate finials and small bases he incorporates add a touch of elegance and strength that’s hard to beat.
His carvings are another highlight. They’re inspired by water jug filters from Fustat, Egypt, made between 900-1200 ACE. These designs were originally functional, meant to filter out river sediment, but they’re also incredibly beautiful. They feature geometric, floral, and animal motifs that are common in Islamic art. Ibrahim brings these ancient carvings to life in a way that feels so relevant and connected to his heritage.
Every detail of Ibrahim’s work—from the finials to the surface carvings and glaze colors—is meticulously thought out. For him, creating these works is a form of devotion, a meditative practice that celebrates the beauty and potential of the world.
As Aaron and I strolled through the gallery, we couldn’t help but admire how these pieces seemed to float in mid-air, defying gravity. Each vase, with its delicate yet sturdy design, was like a conversation between the past and the present.
If you’re in New York, do yourself a favor and check out "From Thebes to Cairo" at Yossi Milo Gallery.