Yehia Abouelnaga, a native of Alexandria, Egypt, born in Kuwait, weaves a unique artistic narrative deeply rooted in his diverse background. Raised by passionate artist parents, founders of the exceptional "El Nafeza Foundation," the sole papermaking NGO in Egypt, Yehia's journey in the art world began early. His upbringing in a family immersed in the art of handmade paper for over three decades unwittingly sowed the seeds of fascination for this ancient craft.
A transformative journey to Japan at the tender age of eight, accompanying his family, became a pivotal chapter, unveiling the secrets of washi paper. This transformative encounter left an enduring imprint on Yehia's visual identity, sculpting his artistic vision to the present day. Fueled by a dream to create a distinctive artistic legacy reflecting his odyssey and his family's artistic heritage, he devoted himself to mastering this craft with unwavering commitment.
Assisting his father in representing Egypt at the Biennale di Venezia of Architecture in 2002, Yehia contributed to over 1000 square meters of intricate paper artwork sheets. Teaching art and design in Egypt, he faced challenges during the Arab Spring in 2011. Seizing an opportunity, he won a scholarship to pursue his master's degree in Italy, choosing the vibrant city of Brescia as his new haven.
In Brescia, Yehia not only found academic growth but also discovered love and stability, prompting him to establish his papermaking art studio in the heart of the city. Amidst the rich cultural tapestry of Brescia, his artistic expressions evolved, drawing inspiration from both his Egyptian heritage and Italian surroundings.
His commitment to the transformative power of art, coupled with the deep-rooted mission of El Nafeza Foundation, creates a narrative that transcends borders. Each stroke of Yehia's distinctive paper artworks becomes a testament to his journey—bridging continents, cultures, and the universal language of art. Every creation stands as an original, with liquid paper transcending boundaries, drying into its own support, making each artwork inherently unique and unrepeated.