A recent exhibition in Jeddah has put the spotlight on the pivotal role of women in shaping Saudi Arabia’s photographic landscape. The event, titled “Footprint Photography,” honored five pioneering female photographers whose work has documented the Kingdom’s rich heritage, culture, and social transformation over the past two decades.
Organized by the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts, the exhibition celebrated the creative journeys of Amal Al-Ameer, Hanaa Turkistani, Suzan Iskandar, Susan Baaghil, and Najla Angawi. Their photographs captured everything from the spiritual essence of Makkah to the stunning natural landscapes and ancient traditions of the country.
The event, held at Abdel Halim Radwi Hall, was part of the “Memoria photography initiative” which aims to preserve and showcase the visual history of the Kingdom. Each of the honored photographers was presented with a commemorative plaque and flowers in recognition of their significant contributions to the nation’s cultural archive.
One of the honored artists, Suzan Iskandar, known for her focus on holy sites, expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honored to have been recognized after all these years I have spent in photography. My heartfelt thanks go to the society and Memoria for establishing this prestigious exhibition.”
The exhibition highlighted how these artists, through their unique perspectives, have not only captured beautiful images but have also helped to tell the story of a society in transition, balancing rapid modernization with a deep respect for its cultural roots. The event was attended by a large number of visitors, art enthusiasts, and aspiring photographers who had the opportunity to engage directly with the artists and learn from their experiences.
