Mohamed Fathy Abou Elnaga is a multidisciplinary visual artist, art professor, curator, and developer, known for his innovative and award-winning art projects. Born in Tanta, Egypt, he graduated with honors from the Faculty of Fine Arts at Alexandria University in 1983 and went on to earn a Master’s degree in 1992, followed by a PhD in the Philosophy of Art in 1997.

A pioneer in his field, Abou Elnaga became the first Middle Eastern artist to receive a prestigious grant from the Japan Foundation in 1996. This grant allowed him to travel to Japan for six months, where he participated in a workshop under the guidance of renowned Japanese artist Kyoko Ibe. During his time there, he delved into the intricate craft of manual paper-making, blending the traditional Japanese Washi paper with the ancient Egyptian papyrus. His unique exploration of this technique led to several workshops and a solo exhibition in Kyoto, Japan.

Over the years, Abouelnaga has exhibited his work internationally in major cities such as Los Angeles, Doha, Dubai, and Switzerland. His impact as an educator is equally notable, having mentored and inspired a new generation of young artists through his teaching and workshops. His multifaceted career continues to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western art traditions, leaving an indelible mark on the global art scene.