Laila Gohar, the Egyptian-born, New York-based artist known for turning food into surreal installations, has finally brought her artistry home — and she made sure it was unforgettable.
A Homecoming Two Decades in the Making
For Gohar, this project wasn’t just another event. It was a long-awaited return to her roots. After leaving Cairo at 19 to study in the U.S., she spent the next two decades building a career that defies traditional labels. Her creations — from brioche armchairs to chocolate fountains — have graced galleries and luxury fashion campaigns alike.
But Egypt? That remained untouched ground for her work. Despite offers over the years, nothing felt quite right. Until now.
An Invitation to Dream
The opportunity came from Goya Gallagher, an expat deeply connected to Egypt’s cultural scene, alongside creative director Cruz María Wyndham. Together, they founded Anūt Cairo — a platform dedicated to uplifting local crafts and artisans. Their debut event? A lavish dinner set inside the iconic Egyptian Museum.
It wasn’t just about food. Gohar envisioned the evening as an immersive experience. Imagine dining among relics that span 6,000 years of history, with over 100,000 ancient artifacts silently watching. The setting itself was a statement — a reminder of Egypt’s enduring legacy.
A Feast for the Senses
Gohar transformed the museum’s gallery into a visual and culinary spectacle. Every element told a story. Tables were adorned with otherworldly arrangements, blending traditional Egyptian elements with Gohar’s signature whimsical style.
One standout piece? A towering pomegranate seed fountain — a nod to both Egyptian mythology and Gohar’s own childhood memories. The fruit, long a symbol of abundance and rebirth, flowed in vibrant red cascades.
Other highlights included:
- Bread sculptures shaped like ancient artifacts
- Hand-dyed linen tablecloths inspired by desert hues
- Locally sourced ingredients presented in playful, unexpected forms
“It’s not about the food itself,” Gohar explained. “It’s about the feeling — that sense of wonder you had as a kid.”
Rediscovering Egypt’s Richness
For Gohar, this project wasn’t just personal. It was about reclaiming and celebrating Egyptian heritage.
“We Egyptians have taken a long time to truly appreciate what’s ours,” she said. “It’s easy to overlook what you grow up around. Sometimes you need to step away to see it clearly.”
The Egyptian Museum, often overshadowed by newer, glossier institutions, was the perfect backdrop. Its weathered grandeur mirrored Gohar’s vision — beauty found in authenticity, not polish.
The Beginning of Something Bigger?
Gohar hints that this might just be the start of more Egypt-based projects. Anūt Cairo’s mission to spotlight local artisans aligns perfectly with her ethos.
“It’s about more than nostalgia,” she said. “There’s so much creative energy here — it deserves to be seen on a global stage.”
For now, Gohar’s night at the museum remains a vivid, dreamlike memory — one that leaves Cairo, and its people, hungry for more.
