On August 20 at 5:00 PM, the Art District Gallery in Beirut hosts a second vernissage for “Photography in Focus,” featuring seven emerging Lebanese photographers.
Art District Gallery in Beirut’s Gemmayzeh neighborhood is once again abuzz with creative energy as it hosts the second vernissage of Photography in Focus. This inspiring collective happening brings together the work of seven emerging Lebanese photographers, offering an exclusive glimpse into the future of the country’s photographic arts.
Known for his dedication to preserving and promoting fine art photography, Maher Attar’s vision for this event is clear: to rekindle an appreciation for traditional photography techniques in an era dominated by digital imagery. The exhibition features the work of Aya Rai, Christopher Samaha, Daniela Stephan, Elias Achy, Jo Matar, Lamis Al Hakim and Mohammad Kaaki, seven talented artists whose fresh perspectives are breathing new life into the Lebanese photography scene.
Each of these photographers brings a unique vision to the table, capturing moments that range from the deeply personal to the universally resonant. Aya Rai’s work, for instance, offers a poignant exploration of identity, while Christopher Samaha’s images draw viewers into a world of ethereal beauty. Daniela Stephan’s portraits stand out for their raw emotional depth, and Elias Achy’s landscapes transport viewers to the most remote corners of Lebanon. Jo Matar’s experimental approach challenges conventional photography norms, while Lamis Al Hakim’s work bridges the gap between tradition and modernity. Finally, Mohammad Kaaki’s series on urban life offers a gritty, unfiltered look at Beirut’s bustling streets.
This exhibition is also an important mentoring platform. Maher Attar’s initiative began with an open call to local photographers, inviting them to submit their work for consideration. The response was overwhelming, with numerous submissions reflecting the rich diversity of the Lebanese photographic landscape. The selected artists have the opportunity to exhibit their work publicly for the first time, and they’d also benefit from Maher Attar’s extensive experience and guidance.
The gallery space itself, the House of Photography, is a testament to Maher Attar’s commitment to the art form. Founded by him, the space is dedicated to fine art photography and offers photography lovers and collectors a chance to explore exhibitions and browse a unique collection of photography books from around the world. Within Art District Gallery, Attar also runs a studio where he uses traditional analogue techniques to produce retro-style portraits, keeping the spirit of classic photography alive.
Visitors to the “Photography in Focus” exhibition can expect to be immersed in the “Haute Couture” spirit of photography, where each image is crafted with precision and care. The exhibition is a celebration of both the artistry and vision of these seven photographers and a call to appreciate the enduring value of traditional photography in today’s fast-paced, digital world.
Curated by the renowned photographer and curator Maher Attar, the exhibition runs until August 31.
