journalistic and documentary photography
I.n° 002
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A Glimpse of Souk Waqif
Maher Attar Maher Attar is a highly renowned photographer with over 25 years of experience working at internatt tional photo agencies such as AFP and Sygma. He has published several photography books includit ing “Bonheur” and “Morio Matsui.” In 2002, Maher set up his own photo press agency in Paris, MGA Production, and is currently serving as the director of the photo library of HH Sheikha Mozah in Qatar. www.maherattar.com
APR+MAY/08
www.sowarmag.com
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A Glimpse of Souk Waqif Photos and commentary: Maher Attar
In the heart of Doha, Qatar, lies Souk Waqif – a historical market that became a national highlight when it was renovated in 2004. The souk’s name, which literally means “Standing Market,” was coined during the ancient days when merchants were forced to stand up while selling their goods to avoid the sea water flowing through. Renowned photographer Maher Attar strolled down the market’s streets, capturing its stunning scenes. “It’s such a beautiful reconstruction of Qatar’s historical past – the attempt to reintroduce a lost heritage in the midst of a modernizing society is admirable,” he explains. “The first time I walked through the souk’s alleyways, I felt as though I was traveling back in time. It’s a historical maze, full of different shops, people and aromas.” The following are some snapshots which are published in his photo book: Once upon a time… Souk Waqif. His only reservation is a pragmatic one: “My photos reveal only part of the truth; in order to fully capture the souk’s essence, you will have to take a journey through it yourself.” 14 : Focus
sowar : APR+MAY/08
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
Restored Architecture The souk’s newly constructed walls are the result of a renovation program initiated by the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the aim of which was to restore a lost legacy. The redevelopment of the area was based on old plans and maps, as well as the recollectt tions of individuals about how the old souk used to be.
The splendour of the souk’s architecture and the Arab culture made me feel right at home.
This has to be my favorite photo of the bunch. It took more than two days to get the shot because I just couldn’t get the lighting right.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
Busy Streets I like to call this ‘The Ghosts Photo,’ which shows the night ambiance of the souk and the dynamism of people walking around.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
Fashion Contrast There are lots of women wearii ing ‘abayas’ while shopping in the souk, and I thought it would be interesting to get a contrast between this traditi tional dress and the other side of Qatari fashion. The woman in the picture had no idea I was taking the photo, which made it a really natural shot.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
Shisha Pipes Smoking shisha (hookah) is a common scene in most Qatari cafés, and Souq Wakif is no exception.
The image of young Qataris smoking shisha in the souk’s traditional cafés has a sense of art on its own.
© Cover photo
This man had such a beautifi ful face. He was just sitting down, smoking his pipe when I walked by. When I asked if it was OK to take his photo, he didn’t say a word and just nodded.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
Busy Streets There are lots of women wearii ing ‘abayas’ while shopping in the souk, and I thought it would be interesting to get a contrast between this traditional dress and the other side of Qatari fashion.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
Traditions I liked seeing the three men sitting on the bench being greeted by the older man, who had wandered down the street to speak to them. It really shows the traditions of the place. There’s a feeling of the power of men in this photo.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
Natural Shots This photo is great because it’s 100 per cent natural. One guy is sleeping, another is hiding his face and the guy on the left-hand side is simply wondering what I’m doing. It’s brilliant and the fact that it’s taken in daylight makes it all the more natural.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
Memorabilia Walking past shops, stalls and bustling people, I observed the ubiquitous handmade articles and local products on sale.
Pyramids of nuts and dried fruit are scattered all around.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08
A snapshot from an entire street decorated with prayer’s rosaries.
Jewelry shops are commi monplace in the souk, and vibrant gold bracelets are in high demand.
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sowar : APR+MAY/08