Inside what is set to be the world’s biggest archaeological museum upon its official opening, the Grand Egyptian Museum, holistic curator Indjy Taher is in charge of the museum shop that already welcomes visitors enjoying the limited pre-opening tours. More than just a regular gift or souvenir shop, this museum shop is as much a must on every tourist’s sightseeing list as the sites themselves.
Taher is a creative visionary and entrepreneur based in Cairo, Egypt, and co-founder and creative director of Mu-see-um, the retail design company operating the Grand Egyptian Museum’s exemplary official gift shop. Her mission to foster deeper connections between audiences and the arts, all while keeping the rich tapestry of Egyptian artisanship at the center of her work, takes shape in the GEM’s gift shop.
Visitors will discover a large variety of high-quality Egyptian-made artisan products, specifically chosen and produced for the shop. Conceptualized within ten retail categories, each is related to the ancient Egyptian lifestyle in its own way. Oils for daily skincare rituals or scents find their place next to board games, books, toys, home, and fashion accessories. The shop homes it all. “We’re nestled in the heart of one of the world’s most significant archaeological museums in the world! Our aim is to craft a lifestyle shop inspired by the spirit of the galleries,” Taher tells ELLE.
Every item is made by Egyptian hands, which Taher proudly says was very important to her when conceptualizing the project. “I get very excited when it comes to our culture because it’s so undervalued and appropriated that it’s sad. There’s so much content; it just hasn’t been unleashed yet.”
A piece of art on its own, the shop became almost a part of the exhibits, offering specially chosen merchandise relevant to the exhibits and galleries that the visitor would have just seen in the museum. “We hope to breathe life into the timeless crafts and workmanship that characterize the artifacts housed in this museum, integrating them into our everyday lives,” Taher tells us. “What we’re trying to do here is curate an experience closely connected to the subject matter, Ancient Egyptian lifestyle. The shop is designed to complement the collections in the galleries, and that’s its biggest asset! We wanted to make sure that what you take home from the museum gift shop is a continuation of your journey of discovery and experience in the galleries.”
So much bigger than a regular retail space, the conceptualization and continuous innovation, sourcing, and stocking of relevant merchandise is a powerhouse project that requires a big team. “We’re an army of creatives behind this; we worked with copywriters who researched for us, with creatives, and illustrators to bring it alive,” Taher says “When Jae, my partner, and I were asked to come and operate the official gift shop of the GEM, we felt a responsibility to turn it into an inclusive platform that both showcases heritage-inspired design and celebrates our rich tradition of handicrafts. Our aim was to craft a cohesive lifestyle concept that not only brings the essence of Ancient Egypt to a global audience but also offers a stage for numerous artisans whose exceptional work might not gain such exposure otherwise. It was never just about retail for us; it was about building bridges, connecting the past with the present, and sharing it with the world.”
In short, it is a definite must for tourists, and locals looking for high-quality gifts to impress abroad.
