The works of Zeinab Al Sageny impart a strong sense of the warmth of human relationships. They strike a chord in the viewer, pulling him insistently yet gently to explore their innermost depths.

Given their capacity to establish rapport with the viewer, these works can neither be easily forgotten nor can one resist the urge to return to enjoy their refreshing essence.

The most distinctive feature of Al Sageny's paintings is their artistic dimension which is practically devoid of embellishment or additions. This allows the eye of the viewer to focus directly on the event depicted in the work. Equally true of this artist's works is their poetical quality and lush richness contrasting with their simplicity of form and color. This richness is spiritual rather than material, representing modesty in the age of innocence evoked by Al Sageny's works.

The female face and form feature so strongly in Al Sageny's paintings that the eye cannot miss a single detail of their identity. Their warm complexions, in particular, have spurred the great artist Mahmoud Saeed in his pursuit of 'Egyptianness'. In depicting the faces of these Egyptian girls and women, Sageny has managed to imbibe her paintings with native touches that are a departure from everything foreign or borrowed.  Deeply rooted in the Egyptian earth, these nationalistic touches represent the pinnacle of El Sageny's contributions to contemporary Egyptian art. In fact, her works have probably inspired other artists such as Mohamed Nagui, Ragheb Ayad, Abdel Hady El Gazzar, and Hamed Nada.

In terms of Zeinab Al Sageny's contributions to art, we may conclude that an artist is primarily an attitude. Set apart by his gift, the artist makes certain choices which can work in his favor and vice versa.

Dr. Naeem Atteya
1989