Qatar-Based Photographers Document Morocco’s Endangered Traditions…

The Photography Journey cultural exchange, part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, focuses on documenting endangered cultural practices in Morocco through the lenses of two Qatar-based photographers, Jana Islam Almallah and Aisha Samir Alabdulla. This initiative highlights the importance of cultural preservation and aims to raise awareness about the fading traditions that represent Morocco’s national identity. Mentored by Khalifa Al Obaidly, the project promises to celebrate and safeguard these cultural values through exhibitions.

The Photography Journey cultural exchange has returned, showcasing the deepening cultural ties between Qatar and Morocco as part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture initiative. This year, the focus lies on the theme “The Fading Traditions of Morocco,” guiding participants through an exploration of the country’s endangered cultural practices. This initiative is organized collaboratively with the Tasweer Photo Festival and the Generation Amazing Foundation. This program features two distinguished photographers based in Qatar: Jana Islam Almallah and Aisha Samir Alabdulla. Throughout their journey, they will traverse significant cultural and heritage sites in Morocco, capturing traditional customs and practices that are increasingly threatened by modernity. Their objective is not only to document but also to raise awareness regarding the importance of cultural preservation, highlighting the invaluable aspects of Morocco’s national identity and human history. Jana Islam Almallah, a 19-year-old Youth Advocate for the Generation Amazing Foundation and a communication student at the University of Doha for Science and Technology, is passionate about advocating for increased opportunities for women and girls in sports. Alongside her is Aisha Samir Alabdulla, renowned for her photographic documentation of Qatar’s civil servants, who holds a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication from Qatar University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Defense Diplomacy at the Joaan bin Jassim Academy for Defense Studies. Reflecting on this unique opportunity, Ms. Almallah expressed enthusiasm for her role in enhancing the visibility of Morocco’s endangered traditions, stating, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help raise awareness of some of Morocco’s most precious cultural traditions and practices, which are at risk of extinction. We want to bring to life these traditions and play a small part, we hope, in preserving them for the next generation.” Ms. Alabdulla also shared her eagerness, stating, “Capturing special moments in time has been a privilege. I appreciate the trust offered to me by the subjects of my work and am eager to be part of such an incredible opportunity.” The initiative is guided by Khalifa Al Obaidly, an esteemed photographer and educator who serves as the Director of the Artist in Residence program and the Tasweer Photo Festival. He articulated the project’s vision, saying, “Photography is not just about capturing images; it’s about storytelling, preserving cultural heritage, and conveying emotion. Through this exchange, I hope to inspire these talented photographers to use their art to celebrate cultural heritage, both in Morocco and Qatar, and to create lasting connections between our two nations.” As the longest-running exchange program under the Years of Culture initiative, the Photography Journey exemplifies the mission to bridge cultural gaps by connecting people across the globe. A collection of works created during this cultural voyage will be showcased in public exhibitions in both Qatar and Morocco at the conclusion of the year, providing audiences with an intimate view of the fading traditions and the shared rich heritage between these nations.

The Journalism Journey serves as a cultural bridge, significantly contributing to the Qatar-Morocco bilateral relations through a deeper exploration of traditions. The initiative aligns with Qatar’s ongoing commitment to promoting cultural exchanges that foster mutual understanding. By focusing on endangered traditions, this program underscores the urgent need for cultural preservation in the face of globalization and modern influences that threaten local customs and practices.

In conclusion, the Photography Journey aims to document and raise awareness about Morocco’s evolving cultural identity through the lens of two promising Qatari photographers. Their efforts will spotlight the fragile nature of these traditions and emphasize the significance of cultural conservation. Through exhibitions and shared stories, this initiative not only aims to preserve heritage but also strengthens the cultural ties between Qatar and Morocco.

Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com