For the first time in history, more than half of the world’s population lives in cities. We live in the city because we are seeking the thrill of the city life or simply because it is the only place where one can find a job and a decent living.

Inspired by cities around the world such as Cairo, Australian artist Damon Kowarsky created 32 paintings, prints and drawings of international cities. Though he started out drawing only images of traditional mud-brick and stone houses, Kowarsky shifted steadily towards the modern aspect of the city. However, depicting this part of the city took him a lot of practice. According to Kowarsky, 'the modern city is complicated and requires patience and drawing skills.' His exhibition ‘In Visible Cities’ is currently showing at Mashrabiya Gallery in Downtown Cairo.

‘In Visible Cities’ is the result of Kowarsky’s time in Cairo, as well as his travels around the world, including places such as Syria, the USA and his native Australia. Besides Cairo, he also made drawings of Chicago, Istanbul, Damascus and New York as well as his hometown of Melbourne.

Kowarsky’s work can be described as modern, simple and dark. He mainly works with charcoal, which gives his work the element of darkness and shadows. He also uses the technique of etching, which leads a lot of his works to have a 3D effect. His paintings are very much a juxtaposition of old and new; for example, his painting Nubar Street shows Cairo’s old rooftops filled with new satellite dishes. Nubar Street is the most expensive piece in the collection; selling for 25,000LE. Despite having an overdose of grey, the painting doesn’t necessarily portray a depressing or melancholy scene. Even though rooftops and satellites dominate the painting, it is a quite intriguing piece that captivates your attention for a while. It is also the biggest piece in the collection.

Most of Kowarsky’s work is small in size, whereas Nubar Street easily covers up a wall. It is a three-piece painting, something that seems to be a favourite technique of Kowarsky, which he uses often in this exhibition. His works on Damascus are impressive too, showing the old parts of Damascus in faded grays and dark blues.

You can purchase Damon Kowarsky’s work at Mashrabia Gallery’s exhibition. Prices for his 32 displayed works of art start at 1300LE. Mashrabia Gallery might be a bit difficult to find. The entrance is on the side of the building, and from there on take the stairs to the first floor.