An Emirati Artistic Triumph: Overcoming the Struggles of Photography in Just 12 Hours
Art is a powerful medium through which individuals express their deepest passions, struggles, and emotions. In the UAE, a group of Emirati artists recently showcased this concept to its fullest in the unique “Sikka Festival” through a groundbreaking project titled “Harmony and Contrast”. Completed in a remarkable 12-hour window, the art installation featured nine powerful photographs capturing the struggles of photographers and artists alike. This work highlighted the often-overlooked challenges faced by creatives, giving a fresh perspective on how external pressures, societal opinions, and time constraints can affect their work and mental state.
A Leap of Faith: Overcoming Criticism
The creative team behind the project consisted of three passionate artists: Mohammed Al-Dhanhani, Hamid Al-Jassmi, and Saif Al-Riyami, all of whom were able to express their personal journeys of growth and the difficulties they had to overcome. The artwork, a series of nine photographs, was displayed at the historical Al Fahidi Neighborhood in Dubai, a fitting setting that connected tradition with innovation. Each photo was a visual representation of the hurdles faced by photographers—challenges they encounter daily, such as harsh criticisms, societal expectations, and the pressure to meet tight deadlines.
Saif Al-Riyami, one of the lead contributors, explained in an interview:
“As photographers, we often face a barrage of negative comments from our environment, which can be disheartening. This work sheds light on how these external pressures influence the creative process and the mental state of artists. Even though there is significant support for artists in the UAE, these obstacles still remain.”
Personal Struggles and Inspirations
For the young artists involved, this was not just a professional project; it was deeply personal. Saif Al-Riyami, for example, shared his own journey of how he once faced criticism for choosing photography over other more traditional fields such as engineering or medicine. He was initially pressured to pursue a “stable” career path, but his passion for photography never waned.
“I was once told by many that photography wasn’t a career worth pursuing, especially compared to more stable professions. I even started studying engineering, but my love for photography brought me back to my true calling. This piece reflects that personal journey,” Saif said.
Time Pressure: A Test of Teamwork
One of the most impressive aspects of this project was its creation in just 12 hours. The team took on this challenge with little time to spare, yet they were able to come together and produce a truly remarkable piece of art. The decision to participate in the Sikka Festival came at the last minute, leaving them with very little time to plan, capture, and finalize their work.
Hamid Al-Jassmi, another member of the group, emphasized the importance of teamwork in this process:
“The time constraint was a huge challenge for us, but we didn’t give up. We had to work as a unified team, support each other, and push ourselves to the limit. In the end, it was our dedication and collective effort that allowed us to meet the deadline successfully.”
The artists worked relentlessly through the night, often sacrificing personal time and comfort, in order to meet their goal. Despite the obstacles, they managed to deliver a stunning result, which showed their ability to overcome adversity.
A Showcase of Emirati Talent
For Mohammed Al-Dhanhani, the experience of participating in Sikka Festival was both exciting and fulfilling. The festival provided him and his fellow artists with a platform to showcase their talents to a broader audience, while also allowing them to connect with other creatives. Mohammed shared his excitement about the festival:
“Participating in Sikka was a wonderful opportunity. It allowed us to connect with other artists and learn from their experiences. The platform gave us the chance to showcase our unique perspectives and offer insights into the challenges photographers face in their daily lives.”
For many young Emirati artists, Sikka Festival serves as a bridge to greater recognition. It’s a space where new ideas can flourish, and creatives can share their struggles and victories.
The Power of Teamwork in Creative Projects
One of the most remarkable things about this project was the collaboration between the three artists. Despite their individual challenges, the trio worked together seamlessly, which was essential for their success. They had a shared vision of portraying the photographer’s journey through a realistic lens, and that vision carried them through the long hours of work.
“Working together as a team was crucial for us. Each of us brought something unique to the table, and it was this collective strength that allowed us to finish the project within such a short time frame. It wasn’t just about creating art; it was about creating it together, as one cohesive force,” said Mohammed.
A Glimpse of the Future: Inspiring Change
As the Sikka Festival wrapped up, the team’s work left a lasting impact. The photographs not only showcased the photographers’ internal struggles but also highlighted the support they hope to see in the creative community. The project was an emotional journey that challenged both the artists and their audience to reconsider how they perceive the world of photography and the challenges artists face.
The photographers hope that this project will open up more conversations about the pressures of creative work and the need for greater support in the field. With the success of their 12-hour challenge, they have set the stage for future collaborations that push boundaries and inspire other creatives to overcome their own struggles.
Inspiration to the Next Generation
The success of this 12-hour artistic feat is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Emirati artistic community. For future photographers and artists, the message is clear: despite the hurdles, passion, dedication, and teamwork can make the impossible possible. This inspiring tale serves as a reminder to all creatives that even in the face of adversity, art can flourish, and dreams can be realized.
The journey of Mohammed Al-Dhanhani, Hamid Al-Jassmi, and Saif Al-Riyami is a powerful testament to the struggles faced by many artists today, and it serves as a beacon of hope for those just starting in their creative careers. Their ability to come together under pressure and produce something beautiful speaks volumes about their commitment to their craft and to the future of Emirati art.
Conclusion:
The story of these Emirati artists reminds us that the path to success is rarely easy. Whether it’s dealing with harsh criticisms or facing time constraints, artists often have to fight against external and internal pressures to stay true to their passion. However, as the “Harmony and Contrast” project proves, these struggles are often what lead to the most rewarding creative endeavors. By sharing their experiences, these young photographers are not only inspiring their peers but also paving the way for future generations of artists in the UAE.
Also read: Sheikh Mohamed’s China Visit Promises Huge Deals for UAE’s Future
