The Photography Journey cultural exchange returns, focusing on “The Fading Traditions of Morocco,” with Qatar-based photographers Jana Islam Almallah and Aisha Samir Alabdulla documenting endangered cultural practices. This initiative aims to raise awareness about cultural preservation as part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture.
The Photography Journey, a cultural exchange initiative aligned with the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, has reemerged to foster a deeper understanding between the nations. This year, the program’s focal point is “The Fading Traditions of Morocco,” guiding participants through an exploration of the country’s teetering cultural practices. Jointly organized with the Tasweer Photo Festival and Generation Amazing Foundation, the project features noted Qatar-based photographers Jana Islam Almallah and Aisha Samir Alabdulla. Together, these photographers are traversing various cultural and heritage sites in Morocco, capturing images of traditional practices that face the threat of extinction. Their photographic endeavors are not only artistic but aim to amplify awareness regarding the essential need for cultural preservation, emphasizing the significance of protecting these invaluable aspects of Morocco’s national identity. Seventeen-year-old Jana Islam Almallah serves as a Youth Advocate for the Generation Amazing Foundation while studying communication at the University of Doha for Science and Technology. With a strong passion for photography and a commitment to enhancing opportunities for women in sports, she is dedicated to raising the visibility of endangered traditions in Morocco. Aisha Samir Alabdulla, renowned for her documentation of Qatar’s civil servants, is also participating; she holds a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication from Qatar University and is advancing her education with an MA in Defense Diplomacy. Reflecting on the expedition, Jana expressed her enthusiasm, 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.” Aisha voiced her excitement, commenting, “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. Providing mentorship to Almallah and Alabdulla is Khalifa Al Obaidly, an accomplished photographer and educator, who passionately emphasizes the project’s importance. He articulated that, “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 initiative within the Years of Culture, the Photography Journey exemplifies its mission to bring the world to Qatar while simultaneously showcasing Qatar to the world. Ultimately, a selection of the photographs from this cultural journey will be exhibited publicly in both Qatar and Morocco at the year’s conclusion, granting audiences insight into Morocco’s diminishing traditions and the enduring heritage shared by these two nations.
The Photography Journey is part of the diplomatic and cultural initiative known as the Years of Culture, which aims to enhance interactions and understanding between various countries. This specific project related to the Qatar-Morocco Year of Culture highlights the urgent need for preservation of cultural practices that are at risk of disappearing. Engaging local talent and photographers allows for a more profound exploration and documentation of these often-overlooked traditions. The initiative is designed not only to showcase culture but also to promote dialogue and partnerships between Qatar and Morocco, enhancing appreciation of both countries’ heritage.
The Photography Journey epitomizes a vital cultural exchange aiming to document and celebrate Morocco’s endangered traditions through the artistry of two Qatar-based photographers. By fostering awareness and appreciation for these cultural elements, the project serves to strengthen ties between Qatar and Morocco, while educating the public on the importance of cultural preservation. The anticipated exhibitions at the year’s end promise to enlighten audiences about the rich heritage that connects the two nations.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
