Capturing the Essence: Saudi Sisters Hajar and Shatha’s Monochromatic Journey

In the bustling city of Riyadh, a mesmerizing summer photography exhibition, aptly titled “The Beach,” has taken the art scene by storm. The masterminds behind this captivating display are two talented Saudi sisters, Hajar and Shatha. For the first time, they have collaborated to showcase a stunning collection of black and white images that offer a fresh perspective on seemingly ordinary views of the sea.Hosted at the renowned creative hub, Burble, the exhibition commenced on July 26 and will continue to enthrall visitors until July 31. The duo’s artwork, displayed in the exhibition area “Inside the Space,” takes viewers on an artistic journey that challenges perceptions and redefines human presence in natural environments, with a focus on the enchanting Farasan Islands in Jazan.Hajar, one-half of the creative duo, finds inspiration by immersing herself in the beauty of the beach. With a passion for seeking new challenges, she artfully “flips the lens” on the seemingly mundane, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Her expertise lies in editorial portraits, where she collaborates with her subjects to create timeless and emotive imagery.On the other hand, Shatha delves into landscape photography, capturing the splendor of nature’s creations through her lens. Drawing inspiration from music videos and short film cinematography, she skillfully experiments with editing and coloring techniques, ensuring that her photographs retain a sense of distinctiveness and charm.One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is Hajar’s “Peace Point,” where a subject stands in a body of water, draped in a silk-like dress that flows with the surface ripples. The black-and-white tones blur the boundaries, creating an ethereal image that makes the model appear as if she is emerging from the sea or becoming one with it. This mesmerizing image encapsulates the seamless fusion of fashion and nature, with the wardrobe expertly curated to mimic the texture of the surrounding landscape.Another powerful piece titled “Remnants of Human Habit” features a subject standing on the shore amidst receding waves and naturally carved rocks. The presence of a washed-up brick in the corner draws attention to the impact of human industrialization on the world. Through this evocative piece, the sisters urge viewers to contemplate the consequences of our actions on the environment.Shatha’s photograph “Shining Shyly” personifies the sea as a withdrawn individual, never fully revealing the light it holds. The glimmers of light on the waves draw attention to the untold stories beneath the surface, inviting contemplation and introspection.As visitors explore the gallery space, they are immersed in a world of contrasts, where black and white images exude a timeless elegance and showcase the inherent beauty of simplicity. The decision to display purely monochromatic photos was made in collaboration with Mohammed Alkhabeer, the founder of Burble. He believes that the beauty of art lies in its ability to encompass the duality of life, represented by the two extremes of black and white.Hajar’s photography journey commenced in 2019, and her career took a remarkable turn in 2020 when her work gained recognition from prestigious fashion magazines like Harpers Bazaar and Vogue. Her unique approach to capturing face profiles and fabric textures showcases her talent as a visual artist and storyteller.Both sisters express profound admiration and support for each other’s work. Hajar praises Shatha’s assistance in larger projects and reveals that this exhibition marks their first collaborative effort. Working together has made the process more enjoyable and comfortable, highlighting the strength of their bond as siblings and artists.Shatha, who developed an interest in photography in 2018, shares a deep passion for experimentation. Her fascination with editing and coloring techniques has allowed her to leave a distinctive mark as a photographer, and she continues to draw inspiration from various artistic mediums to refine her craft.In the end, their joint exhibition serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, familial support, and the transformative nature of art. As visitors immerse themselves in the monochromatic world crafted by Hajar and Shatha, they leave with a newfound appreciation for the subtle beauty and hidden stories that lie within the simplest of frames.