Meet Our Team

Salma Al Khalidi is an independent curator and art advisor based in Cairo, Egypt. Her professional journey began in 2016 at Carrie Able Gallery in New York City, and later joined other art institutions, including Open Gallery in London, and Art D’Égypte in Cairo. Salma has then ventured into independent curation in early 2023, collaborating with both local and international artists and galleries. Her expertise extends beyond curation to encompass Art Advisory, where her understanding of the art world provides valuable insights for collectors, art enthusiasts, businesses and artists seeking guidance. In addition to her professional achievements, Salma holds a Master’s in History of Art from SOAS, London and a Bachelor’s in Interior and Spatial Design from Chelsea College of Art and Design, UAL, London. Salma brings a unique blend of art historical knowledge and practical design expertise to the table.

As an Arts Manager, Salma serves as a valuable asset for artists and collectors seeking guidance in navigating the complexities of the art world. Her multifaceted background enables her to offer holistic advice in various settings. Her commitment includes transforming spaces through carefully curated artworks and supporting both emerging and established artists with personalized insights, guidance and a collaborative approach to enhance their artistic journeys.

International artist and gallery owner, Seth Benzel has made his own unique way in the art industry. A son of an architect and painter, Seth was surrounded by art growing up and was mentored by his father from a very early age and well through adulthood. After three years at a small liberal arts school, he transferred to Pratt Art Institute. Although he did not complete his studies, Seth knew his painting style was unique and decided to forge his own way in the art world. Today, Seth is an internationally recognized artist, a gallery owner and the director of artist residency programs in Dubai. Seth enjoys mentoring and teaching his unique approach to painting. Core to his beliefs is that every artist must find their own language and distinct voice that sets them apart. It is through this language that the artist should communicate an authentic message to the viewer. Seth enjoys working with all levels of artists and believes that through critique and community we can all improve our craft and enlighten the world with our creativity.

Merna is a multidisciplinary visual artist and digital humanist whose work blends traditional techniques with digital practices, shaped by a thoughtful and curious approach to visual expression. Inspired by the phrase, “The odds are good, but the goods are odd,” she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts (Graphic Department) and a Master’s degree in Digital Culture and Humanities from University College Cork. With participation in 23 art exhibitions and 9 awards—including the Rafaa Al Nasiri Graphic Art Award, which honors artists across the MENA region—her work has been featured in events such as the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival and the Youth Salon at the Cairo Opera House.

As an art advisor, Merna draws from her own experiences as an artist, understanding the emotional layers behind every creative journey. She is deeply committed to guiding artists with empathy and care, offering support that respects their unique voices, challenges, and growth. She seeks to create an environment where artists feel seen, heard, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Claude Habib is a Lebanese international artist with a multidisciplinary background. She holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Social Studies, and a Certificate in the History of Art. Her work has gained international recognition, and since 2011 she has been a collection artist at the Musée Paul Valéry in France. Her art has been featured in numerous exhibitions and cultural platforms across Europe and the region. Claude brings over 18 years of experience teaching art to learners of all ages and more than 16 years in art management, education, curation, and consultancy. She is fluent in Arabic, French, and English, with working knowledge of German. Since 2011, she has been a Part-Time Art Professor at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, where she mentors and inspires the next generation of creatives. Specializing in art education and curriculum development, Claude is also an art writer and author, contributing to critical conversations on art, culture, and education. Her commitment to the intersection of art and mental well-being is reflected in her role as a facilitator of Arts & Well-being programs. For over 14 years, she has worked closely with People of Determination, designing inclusive workshops and educational models that foster empowerment through creativity. Her career reflects a sustained dedication to community engagement, intergenerational learning, and cultural dialogue, establishing her as a respected voice in both regional and international art scenes.