STORY: Physically challenged artist in Egypt triumphs over quadriplegia through art
SHOOTING TIME: April 21, 2024
DATELINE: April 22, 2024
LENGTH: 0:03:25
LOCATION: Cairo
CATEGORY: SOCIETY

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the artist
2. SOUNDBITE(Arabic): MAJED BAQI, Egyptian artist

STORYLINE:

After a traffic accident left Egyptian architect Majed Baqi disabled 12 years ago, his passion for art acted as therapy and helped him recover. 

Despite being initially immobilized, his dedication to art fueled his healing journey as he resumed his artistic studies and painting.

SOUNDBITE(Arabic): MAJED BAQI, Egyptian artist
"I'm Majed Baqi. I started off as an architect and visual artist, diving into Coptic art and creating frescoes and icons in churches. Art was a big part of my life, alongside my work in architecture. But then, things took a turn. I had a car accident that left me with quadriplegia, making it seem like I might not draw again. But, with time and a lot of effort, I regained my nerve and got back into art. I poured hours into drawing, about 10 to 12 a day, and surprisingly, it helped with my medical condition. My art got even better despite my struggles. Looking ahead, I dream of more personal exhibitions, not just to showcase art, but to let my art speak for important issues. Like, I imagine artists coming together at places like the Rafah crossing to paint and shine a spotlight on places like Gaza, using art to show the world the harsh realities."

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Cairo.
(XHTV)