During the January 25 Revolution, several talents in the various fields of art emerged. These art forms served as a means to stimulate demonstrators throughout the 18 days of protests in Tahrir Square, transforming the harsh cold weather of January and February into warmth, as the enthusiasm for songs, drawings and caricatures was ignited. Those who created this art called it “alternative art.”

Ramy Essam, or as he is known in Tahrir Square, “the singer of the revolution,” is one of the many talented artists who shined during the protests. He used to chant revolutionary lyrics that encouraged protesters and reinforced their determination to oust former President Hosni Mubarak.

Essam embarked on his journey a few years prior to the revolution, when he formed a band named Mashakel (Problems). Yet he became famous with the outbreak of the revolution, during which he discovered his ability to write revolutionary lyrics and compose music. He stepped on stage, held a guitar and started singing. His first song was “Irhal” (Leave), and the lyrics quoted the slogans chanted by the protesters in the square.

Yet “alternative art” has not been limited to songs. Graffiti art emerged following the January 25 Revolution, and various drawings were seen on walls throughout the city. These drawings represent the successive developments of the revolution, starting with the sit-in in Tahrir Square, the events that took place on Mohamed Mahmoud Street and in Maspero and the many other events that Egypt has witnessed since the revolution.