Despite being an actress and producer, the audience recently discovered another side of Jumana Murad after her participation in various art exhibitions as a collector. Among these, she took part as a patron of the arts in the "Forever is Now" exhibition held at the Pyramids, along with ten renowned artists from around the world. Prior to this, she showcased her collection in multiple exhibitions with her husband, businessman Rabi Bseiso, revealing that her relationship with this type of art began in childhood due to her upbringing among visual artists.
In an interview with Al Arabiya.net, Jumana discussed her passion for painting and other topics related to her new works, including a film in American cinema.
**How do you feel about participating in the Forever is Now exhibition?**
I’m happy to be part of such a significant exhibition. I am proud to participate with my husband Rabi Bseiso in an important event taking place for the first time in Egypt. I admire Nadine Abdel Ghaffar for her idea behind the exhibition and the tremendous effort she put into it. I am also proud that this event is being held at the foot of the Pyramids. I want to thank everyone who contributed significantly to the successful execution of this grand exhibition, which is a historical event where different cultures exchange artistic expressions with the West, with attendees coming from all over the world to display their artworks—it’s truly remarkable.
**How do you view the role of artists in supporting initiatives and events like this exhibition?**
It’s very important for artists to participate in such events and to educate the public about their significance. My husband and I care about these events because we are collectors and have amassed a considerable collection of artworks and paintings. When an exhibition of this scale is held at the foot of the Pyramids, we felt it was essential to be patrons and support it, as it’s an honorable and beautiful endeavor.
**Since the beginning of this year, we have seen a significant interest from you in visual arts, which is unusual for you?**
This isn’t new for me; perhaps it’s the first time the audience is acknowledging it. My connection with visual art started in childhood due to my upbringing among visual artists, which made my love for art grow stronger each day. My husband is also an art lover, and he was the one who suggested participating in the exhibitions. His perspective is that artists didn’t create these paintings to hide them in houses, but rather for the audience to see. Art is a noble message that belongs to everyone, and it serves as visual nourishment. That’s why we participate in these works, so that the audience, artists, students, and others can view them.
**Jumana Murad and Yousra participated recently as a jury member in the first edition of the short films competition at the Catholic Center?**
It was a unique experience, and I thank Father Botros Daniel for making me a part of this important experience and for his interest in art and artists. It was indeed my first time as a jury member in the first round of the short films competition held by the "Egyptian Catholic Center for Cinema," which carries the slogan "Towards a Better Life." I was pleased to be chosen for such an important jury and had the opportunity to watch beautiful, remarkable, and valuable films with meaningful messages—may these lovely films be a step towards a better life and herald a different kind of cinema.
The experience of participating in the competition was distinctive. All the works seen by the jury were exceptional and reflected the festival’s slogan. Also, I support any cultural or artistic event, and the Catholic Center is an active institution in Arab cultural and cinematic life. I was honored to be present with Father Botros and all my colleagues in supporting the aware youth who presented unconventional ideas.
**What’s new with you?**
I am finishing filming an American movie titled "North of the Ten," where I play a character named "Hayat," an Arab woman living in the United States who faces tough situations. The lead role is played by American-Arab actress Stefanie Noor, alongside many American actors like King Bach, Lawrence Hawkins, Tiffany Johnson, Toosie Moro, Yancy Arias, and Arab actors like Samer El Masri, among others. The film is directed by Ryan Lamer and produced by Qais Qandil, and the filming takes place in the UAE.
**What about the film "Day 13," which marks your return to cinema after a 7-year absence?**
I participate as a guest star in the film, and the unique cast encouraged me to accept this role, including Ahmed Dawood, Dina El Sherbiny, Nesreen Amin, Mohamed Shahin, and many guest stars. The story revolves around an exciting concept that leans towards the horror genre, where I portray "Ahlam," an aristocratic woman. This role is unique and peculiar and will be a surprise to the audience. I am also looking forward to the release of the film "The Cursed Palace," which is considered Egypt’s first experience in the world of 3D.
