Light Chasers throw light on photography

ABU DHABI — Like with any large group exhibitions, Light Chasers' latest display of photographic works is a mixed bag.

by

Silvia Radan

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Published: Tue 15 Jul 2008, 9:36 PM

Last updated: Sun 5 Apr 2015, 6:13 PM

Opened on Sunday at the Cultural Foundation in the capital, the exhibition covers most styles and subjects, from graphic architecture to classic landscapes and photojournalism to studio portraits.

The featured artists belong to Light Chasers, a relatively young group of professional photographers in Abu Dhabi.

First established in 2002, the group was re-launched in June, 2006, as part of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage. Apart from supporting and exhibiting works of its 130 members, Light Chasers also organises workshops and seminars on photography-related topics.

In this latest exhibition, several pictures are out of the ordinary, including Osama Al Zubaidi's shots of the Shaikh Zayed Mosque. Captured at sunrise, the already impressive mosque architecture has an intense beauty in the soft, red-glowing light. By framing it all in simple, but powerful composition, Al Zubaidi creates a truly dramatic effect.

By contrast, the pictures of Kenya's national wildlife parks were rather a disappointment.

The result of a 10-day safari trip taken in February this year by six friends, all members of Light Chasers, the pictures lack that essential "wow" factor that keeps the viewer glued to the print.

The dull light and compositions tend to be the main problem and the only remarkable shot is, in fact, not of animals, but of a group of African warriors performing a ritual dance.

A large part of the exhibition is dedicated to the people and landscapes of Kashmir, captured by another group of Light Chasers' photo friends.

Henry D'Silva, Carl Abrams, Shahid Hashmi and Sujin Balakumaran honoured their profession with memorable images.

Each image has a story to tell in itself. Reaching remote villages, the photographers reveal a world beyond all borders through exquisite portraits, landscapes and everyday life.

In fact, their collective works may soon be available in a photographic album.

The entry to the exhibition, which will be open until the end of August, is free.


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