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.