Looking at life through the eyes of Emirati women

Dubai: In what is billed as the first all-women Emirati photography exhibition, organised by the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, more than 30 per cent of the exhibited photographs were sold on the opening night on Thursday.

Seven photographers — amateur and professional — took centre stage at the exhibition hall of the Foundation, displaying their talent under the umbrella title ‘Through Emirati Eyes' with varied themes ranging from desertscapes to wildlife and traditional architecture.

Dr Mohammad Abdullah Al Mutawa, member of the Foundation's Board of Trustees, spoke to Gulf News, underlining the need to encourage young Emirati talent. "Our policy has always been to encourage the new generation in all activities promoted by the Foundation. Through this exhibition, we are encouraging female photographers, and presenting their excellent work," he said

Perspective

Gulf News also talked to a few of the photographers.

Mauza Al Falasi spoke of her inspiration — the desert, a recurring theme in her work.

She said: "The desert reminds me of our country's roots and its rich heritage. Great Rulers and poets have called the desert their home."

A student of photography and a seasoned exhibitor with several award winning photographs, she added, "I have had more than 20 exhibitions in the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia."

Like Mauza, Mariam Al Gafli too is inspired by intrinsic aspects of the country, specifically its traditional architecture. She said her interest in photography is to capture nuances of traditional architecture against natural light. She said, "I am always looking for interesting angles in architecture. I also like to photograph traditional crafts. I have held more than 10 exhibitions so far."

Amateur photographer Mariam Qariban said she appreciates the exposure and hopes to fine tune her skills.

Experiment

"My previous work has been received well. I love taking photos of everyday objects, and I carry my camera everywhere."

The exhibition was a first time experiment in portraiture for Aala Al Louz.

Of her photos with elderly Emirati women as subjects, she said, "Though their faces are partially covered with the burqa, you can still see each woman's emotions reflected through her eyes."