Monday, 25 May 2026
Shereen Badr, CEO and Founder of Artoday
Empowering Egyptian art and women through Artoday
In the vibrant tapestry of global art, one voice is weaving a narrative that connects continents, uplifts communities, and champions the transformative power of creativity. The Nile Observer had the privilege of interviewing Shereen Badr, CEO and Founder of Artoday, to talk about her inspiring success story—an extraordinary journey that began in 2010, when a passionate independent art curator found her calling organizing exhibitions and sharing artists’ visions.
From passion to purpose
By 2014, this initial passion blossomed into a professional pursuit, bringing with it broader horizons and bolder ambitions. The pivotal turning point came in 2017, with the launch of the “Euro-Arab Artoday” project in Italy—a vision dedicated to nurturing cross-cultural dialogue through art. Over the next several years, more than 20 successful art events would be realized, culminating in a milestone exhibition in February 2020.
Then, as the world was shaken by the COVID-19 pandemic and movement ground to a halt, a crossroads appeared. Rather than yield to uncertainty, this was the moment of transformation—the birth of “Artoday” as an independent company. With deep experience forged in Europe, especially Italy, and the value of cherished relationships abroad, the founder was able to shift her vision homeward, bringing her blossoming ideas to Egypt.
A vision for global and local impact
“Artoday’s mission is both ambitious and heartfelt: to become a leading force on the world art stage, spotlighting Egyptian artists and elevating their voices in global dialogue,” Badr said.
The message is clear. “Egyptian art has a rightful place in the international arena, transcending boundaries to foster understanding, appreciation, and mutual respect.”
Badr explained that Artoday pursues its mission through two primary goals.
On a global level, Artoday introduces contemporary Egyptian art to new audiences around the world. It organizes impactful exhibitions and hosts art shows in diverse international settings. The company also brings the global community to Egypt by inviting international artists to share their perspectives, which enriches the local art scene through vibrant cultural exchange.
Locally, Artoday is committed to building a nurturing and inclusive community dedicated to collaborative growth and artistic exploration. It supports both established artists and promising newcomers.
“It not only provides a platform to showcase their talent, but also offers resources, mentorship, and opportunities that empower creative voices to flourish,” she said.
The power of women’s voices in art
Badr spoke with deep passion about one of Artoday’s most meaningful commitments: uplifting women in the arts. She shared how Artoday thoughtfully organizes special art events and exhibitions just for women, and how these gatherings go far beyond simply showcasing talent—they are places where empowerment, encouragement, and genuine social change take root.
Badr explained that these initiatives hold a special significance. By offering women artists supportive spaces to exhibit their work, Artoday helps them gain confidence and well-deserved recognition. It is truly inspiring to see how this visibility encourages other women and girls to explore their own creative paths.
She emphasized the importance of giving female artists the spotlight they often lack in mainstream art spaces.
“Through thoughtful curation and celebration of their achievements, Artoday helps to break down stereotypes and challenge outdated views,” she said.
Women artists not only find opportunities to network and collaborate, but also discover a sense of belonging within a nurturing community.
“These events create spaces filled with support and mutual encouragement, allowing artists to learn from and inspire each other.”
Badr expressed her hope that, by highlighting strong role models and shared experiences, Artoday’s efforts will inspire the next generation of young women and girls. She believes that when they see what is possible, it strengthens their resolve to chase after their own creative dreams.
At the heart of it all, Sherin affirmed, is a commitment to using art as a channel for cultural dialogue and deeper understanding—especially when seen through the eyes of women. She pointed out how the exhibitions also raise social awareness, shining a light on everyday challenges and discrimination women face, while providing real economic opportunities for artists to build sustainable, fulfilling careers.
Listening to Badr, it’s clear that these initiatives are about more than art. They are about opening doors, building community, and sparking hope for a brighter, more inclusive future.
“These gatherings are much more than exhibitions—they are dynamic, living movements that nourish both the creative economy and society at large, advancing equity and empowerment for all women.”
Overcoming obstacles with purpose
Bringing these inspiring events to life isn’t always easy, and Badr was open about some of the tough challenges that come with the territory. One of the most difficult parts is finding enough funding.
Many private sponsors, she explained, don’t always see the true value of art—especially compared to popular sports or music events. But despite these challenges, Artoday meets each hurdle with creativity, optimism, and unwavering dedication.
“One of the ways Artoday moves forward is by gently educating sponsors and the wider community about the powerful role art can play, especially in empowering women and encouraging positive, lasting change,” she said.
By opening hearts and minds to art’s true impact, Artoday helps more people understand why this work matters so much—and why it deserves support.
Badr also shared how building partnerships is at the heart of what they do. Artoday loves working hand in hand with ministries, prestigious organizations like the UN, EU, and UNESCO, and other groups who share the same dreams of equality and progress.
“When these like-minded partners come together, the mission grows even stronger, creating a supportive network that lifts everyone involved.”
Badr also pointed out that they don’t put all their eggs in one basket when it comes to funding. Artoday finds creative ways to support their programs—pursuing grants, reaching out for international cooperation, and designing events that can sustain themselves over time.
Embracing global collaboration
International partnership is not just a possibility for Artoday—it is a pillar of its success. The company’s collaborative spirit has led to groundbreaking achievements, such as the historic cooperation with the Women’s Museum in Bonn, Germany, during the third “Empowerment through Art Forum” (EHAF). This unique exchange saw six remarkable German female artists, including guest of honor Marianna Petzen, presenting their art in Egypt, and next year, six Egyptian women artists will journey to Germany to share their vision and talent.
Artoday’s reach continues to expand, proudly representing Egypt in the ninth edition of Rome Art Week and forging new connections that promise even greater opportunities for cultural enrichment.
Artoday has built a wonderful network of international partnerships with respected art institutions around the world. Some of these include Safira & Ventura Gallery, which has locations in the USA and Brazil, the New York Society of Contemporary Art, Jörg Gallery in Belgium, Makan Gallery in Bahrain, and The Royal Academy of Contemporary Art in India, among others. These collaborations help strengthen Artoday’s mission and bring artists and art lovers from different cultures closer together.
“These and many other cherished partnerships with prestigious art organizations are a testament to our enduring commitment to expanding the horizons of Egyptian art,” she said.
“We take pride in creating meaningful opportunities for Egyptian women artists to connect with the global community, while also introducing exceptional international art to Egypt. It is through these bridges that we nurture dialogue, cross-cultural learning, and true artistic exchange.”