Anticipating another visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum, excited to see the difference of a year in its development.
As we’ll be going to the Grand Egyptian Museum tomorrow, and I need to make sure I have packed for early luggage collection, this is a bit of a shortcut installment.
It’s almost a year ago that I first got to see the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), which was prior to the completion of all the installations. I vividly remember the awe I felt as I roamed through the partially finished exhibits, eagerly anticipating the full reveal of this magnificent cultural landmark. A notable absence last year was the Tutankhamen collection, which we did get to see in its previous location. That being said, I had the chance to explore other fascinating artifacts that offered a glimpse into the rich tapestry of ancient Egyptian civilization.
According to what I have been told, the new installation of Tutankhamen’s treasures is nothing short of spectacular. The museum’s curators and designers went above and beyond to create an immersive experience that highlights the grandeur of Tutankhamen’s treasures. Some have described the new exhibits with such enthusiasm, indicating that it looks like you almost cannot see the case due to the care they took with lighting design. This innovative approach not only elevates the artifacts themselves but also serves to enhance the overall viewing experience, making visitors feel like they are truly stepping into the past.
I’m sure I will also get this view, spectacular in and of itself…
A GEM of a View
With the expert guidance that we will get tomorrow from Dominic Perry and the Ancient Word Tours team, I am eagerly anticipating the day, as I finish up this post. More from me tomorrow!
A Fresh Perspective
Photography is more than just a vehicle for capturing the world around me; it provides me with a palette and a set of brushes, with which I paint not only what I see, but also look to express the emotions that are evoked by the scene in front of me in that moment.
Growing up in the Netherlands exposed me to a wide cross-section of visual arts that laid the foundation of my photographic view of all that surrounds me. Early influences were the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, to whom I was introduced by my grandfather during museum explorations; favorites among them are the scenes of quotidian life depicted by Jan Steen and Frans Hals and the vivid landscapes of Jacob van Ruisdael.
My classical high school education was supplemented by the Boijmans Van Beuningen museum, where I spent many a lunch hour exploring its great collection. Here I was introduced to surrealism with a particular love for the approach taken by Salvador Dali; Dali also rekindled my appreciation for the work of Hieronymus Bosch, who often showed the folly of us mortals.
Universal Connections
My approach to any photographic subject is to look for understanding first; in this I look to establish either a connection between the viewer and the subject or capture the connection of the subject with its surroundings. The captured image then aims to portray this connection from a perspective that is part of my personal interpretation.
This interpretation is often a form of externalized introspection, which may alternately display the connection of isolated beings and items with their environment or highlight the whimsy of the profound world, in which we find ourselves. The universe is full of connections, many of which are waiting to be discovered; part of my journey as a photographer is to document these connections.
Any assignment, be it an event, a product shoot or a portrait session is always approached through communication with the client; this is where the first connection is established. Ideas are exchanged and a collaborative plan of action forms, ultimately resulting in a set of images that aim to exceed the expectations of each client.
And, lest we forget, it is important to have fun while practicing the serious business of photography!
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3 thoughts on “A Saturday Shortcut”
It is on my list. It was just under construction when I was in Egypt. Based on your earlier visit and you visit tomorrow, how much time do you estimate is needed to do it even a little justice? Tours I have looked at only include a few hours to visit. thanks.
Marie, it is easy to spend a week in the museum and not see everything. One good approach is to pick one exhibit that you want to see, such as Tutankhamun, and then take in an additional gallery, which can fill an entire day.
It is on my list. It was just under construction when I was in Egypt. Based on your earlier visit and you visit tomorrow, how much time do you estimate is needed to do it even a little justice? Tours I have looked at only include a few hours to visit. thanks.
Marie, it is easy to spend a week in the museum and not see everything. One good approach is to pick one exhibit that you want to see, such as Tutankhamun, and then take in an additional gallery, which can fill an entire day.
Thanks. If I do another tour, I will go early and spend a day in the museum.