In a previous article, we discussed anamorphoses—those shapes and designs that are only visible from a single vantage point. Here’s a monumental example spanning an entire neighborhood in Cairo! 🕵️♀️
The French artist El Seed, who is of Tunisian origin, subtly reinterprets Arabic calligraphy in the form of calligrams, created with spray paint. He naturally calls his creations “calligraffies,” which—though abstract at first glance—actually conceal quotes related to the places and stories they embody.
On March 15, 2016, the artist unveiled his latest creation: an anamorphosis spanning some fifty buildings in Cairo’s Coptic community, a neighborhood often looked down upon because its residents make a living from managing the city’s waste.
The words of this gigantic calligram, visible only from a specific vantage point on Moqattam Mountain, read: “If anyone wants to see the sunlight, they must rub their eyes.” This quote from a 3rd-century Coptic bishop illustrates El Seed’s goal: to shine a light on this community. 🌞
It’s been a successful tribute, as the neighborhood has since become a must-see stop on every tourist itinerary in the city.
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