Marian Mekhail’s ‘MAKTUB: It Is Written’ – A Journey Through Egyptian Heritage in Dallas

Welcome to Deep in the Heart of Dallas! Our latest series celebrates Dallas’s creative community, following local artists as they reveal their favorite spots and how the city fuels their work. Today we spotlight Marian Mekhail, a Dallas‑based contemporary artist. Her upcoming exhibition, MAKTUB: It Is Written, explores her Egyptian roots, blending heritage with a modern twist. The show opens November 13 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., and on November 14 by appointment only at The Whiskey Spot. Let’s dive into Mekhail’s story!

Tell us about your upbringing and how your creative side developed...

I discovered my artistic voice at 13. My father, an architect, worked at a desk I would often join, sketching basketball players as a tomboy. Raised in a strict, traditional Egyptian household, art was not seen as a viable career by my family, despite Egypt’s rich artistic legacy. When college approached, I pursued exercise science on a scholarship because my parents feared the arts would waste the scholarship. I worked in physical therapy, retail, interior design, and medical staffing, yet my love for art never waned. In 2013 I had my first group show, and by 2015 I committed to turning art into a business. For four years, while holding a 9‑to‑5 job, I created, exhibited, and built a client base.

When did you decide to take up art full time?

My official “art‑trepreneur” anniversary was Valentine’s Day 2019. The first months felt uncertain, but a relentless drive emerged. Without coworkers or a routine, I learned discipline—both creative and financial. Artists are often seen as “starving,” but to thrive, I treat art as a business.

Which Dallas galleries do you frequent?

I love the boutique Ginger Fox Gallery in the Bishop Arts District. The Green Family Art Foundation hosts exciting pop‑ups, currently featuring “Black Bodies, White Spaces: Invisibility & Hypervisibility” in the Design District. I also keep tabs on the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center for new exhibitions.

Tell me about your upcoming exhibit “MAKTUB: It Is Written” and its inspiration.

The Arabic word maktub means “it was written.” In 2020, I realized my work didn’t reflect my heritage and experiences. Drawing inspiration from Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist, where “maktub” appears repeatedly, I began this collection in March 2021. It weaves literary, biblical, historical, and personal contexts, incorporating Egyptian mythology and modern feminist perspectives. The show features large mixed‑media canvases, framed works, and hand‑painted papyrus, offering a contemporary lens on ancient Egypt.

How will your second exhibition differ from your first?

My debut, “Queendom,” addressed patriarchy shortly after leaving my job. “MAKTUB: It Is Written” is more cohesive, with each piece grounded in a blend of literary, spiritual, historical, or personal narrative.

What do you want visitors to take away from the exhibit?

I hope viewers question their own life mission beyond career or money. Knowing your mission clarifies your role in any setting and your unique contribution. My mission is to create—art, conversation, connection.

Thoughts on Dallas’s current art scene and its future?

The Dallas art scene has evolved remarkably. Deep Ellum continues to champion local artists, and more businesses are investing in Dallas talent. I encourage galleries to showcase local, female, and women‑of‑color artists in group shows.

To learn more about Mekhail, her upcoming show, and her Dallas activities, follow her on Instagram: @officialmarebear or visit MarianMekhail.com