By Nayera Yasser
Egypt’s most popular cartoon character, Kimo Kono, will have to complete a lonely journey after the departure of its creator and best friend, Hany El-Masry. After a long battle with Leukaemia, the Egyptian concept designer, illustrator, visual development artist and storyteller said his goodbyes to this world at the age of 64.
(Public Domain)
The brilliant designer was the sole creator of several iconic characters throughout his life. After working on the interior décor of several national plays, such as “The Kids Grew Old” and “It Is Truly a Respectful Family”, in addition to creating the famous blue teddy, Kimo, and drawing the official poster of “The Witness Who did not See Anything”, El-Masry headed to the US in the ‘80s to start a new chapter of his artistic life.
El-Masry was the first Egyptian designer to work at the Walt Disney Studios after several relentless attempts to join the team. He also worked with international director Steven Spielberg on his animated movie, The Prince of Egypt.
(Public Domain)
Despite living in the US, El-Masry kept active contact with his Egyptian audience and followers through social media, as he was always keen on sharing semi-daily posts on his work and current events.
Last March, the beloved artist shocked his social-media followers with news about his Leukaemia which progressed rapidly. El-Masry’s final posts on Facebook encouraged people to keep smiling and enjoying life without any sadness for his approaching death. He also stated that laughter and utter dedication to his beloved nation, Egypt, is how he would love to be mourned.
Several influential figures along with his followers took their mourning to social media where they shared his work, quotations and remembered his graciousness and acceptance.
