By Raynald C Rivera
DOHA: A gigantic installation showcasing 34 images captured on lens by two Qatari photographers is one of the major attractions at the Turkish Festival and Bazaar which runs until tomorrow at Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Park.
The stunning three-storey exhibit is a mosaic of faces and places in Turkey as seen through the eyes of photographers Saleh Al Marri and Sara Al Obaidly during a two-week expedition to the country early this year. It was a product of a cultural exchange project which is a major part of Qatar Turkey 2015 Year of Culture and also saw Turkish photographers Ali Muhammet Bayraktariglu and Hasan Yelken on a journey to Qatar.
Saleh and Sara traversed crossroads of Europe and Asia, capturing diverse culture and nature, resulting in the ‘New Angles, New Perspectives’ exhibition that provides viewers with a better understanding of diverse Turkish culture through the images taken from Istanbul and Ankara to the natural beauty of Cappadocia and Lake Tuz.
With a penchant for portrait, landscape and cityscape photography, Saleh has passion in conveying messages and telling stories through images of people in their daily lives.
Saleh has won awards and commissions in Qatar and abroad.
A portrait and documentary photographer, Sara projects present-day political, philosophical and social issues through portraiture and provides a broader vista of the region in her landscape compositions. She has been shortlisted for international awards and is an Artist in Residence at the Fire Station.
A first-of-its-kind in Qatar, the exhibition showcases art and culture as an effective vehicle to promote a deeper understanding between nations.
The festival and bazaar features music and dance performances and outdoor screenings of Qatari and Turkish films.
Some of the most popular Turkish handicraft and gifts are sold at the bazaar while authentic Turkish cuisine is served by many five-star hotels and restaurants at the food court. The festival is open to the public from 2pm to 10pm today and 10am to 9pm tomorrow.
The Peninsula
