In the Shadow of the Pyramids is a series of photographs by Laura El-Tantawy that was presented in the form of a self published book as well as an exhibition at Gulf Photo Plus in March of 2015.  A British/Egyptian photographer living between Cairo and London, El-Tantawy began this series in 2005 when she was compelled to explore the essence of Egyptian identity in the hope of coming to terms with her own.  Guided by childhood memories, her photographs are not meant to be objective observations of a nation, but rather personal reflections of Egypt through her own eyes.

In the Shadow of the Pyramids is a first person perspective exploring memory and identity. With images spanning 2005 to 2014, what began as a look in the mirror to understand the essence of Egyptian identity expanded into an exploration of the trials and tribulations of a turbulent nation. The result is dark, sentimental and passionate.

The work was released on January 25, 2015 as a book under the same title. Juxtaposing the innocence of the past with the obscurity of the present, the book is an experience, edited to look like a one night’s encounter. A peaceful and tranquil day suddenly turns violent and chaotic, it’s claustrophobic, until a new dawn rises and there is hope again. 

A variety of photo books can be found celebrating the Ancient Egyptians and examining Egypt’s archaeological history, however few explore contemporary Egypt. In the Shadow of the Pyramids reflects on the emotions, dreams and realities shared by a community within the flux of reformation.