Muscat: Emmy Culianez, a French photographer residing in the Sultanate of Oman, has shared her insights into the profound influence of Omani customs and traditions in daily life through her photography. Her work aims to capture the essence of both people and place, showcasing the intricate relationship between historical authenticity and modern existence. "There is a clear intention to preserve and express Omani cultural identity through architecture, materials, and the repetition of forms," Culianez remarked, emphasizing the living nature of these traditions.
According to Oman News Agency, Culianez's visual interpretations stem from her personal experiences and feelings. She describes the unique way light interacts with surfaces and the textures of stone and arches that create a distinct atmosphere. "What I found in Oman is a kind of soft power - something subtle, not imposed, yet very present," she noted, highlighting how Omani imagery invites discovery and exploration over time.
Culianez's works were recently showcased at Stal Gallery as part of the French Weeks events, under the theme "200 Years of Photography: A French Invention." Her images spotlight Oman's cultural richness and architecture, designed to engage both sighted and visually impaired audiences.
In discussing the Omani people, Culianez expressed admiration for their dignified demeanor and central role in her work. "In my work, I sometimes focus on people and their faces, especially when something authentic emerges naturally," she stated. Her current exhibition, however, focuses on the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, its architecture, and its atmosphere, offering a tribute to the nation that has embraced her.
Culianez's photography reflects the harmony between Omani architecture and human interaction within these spaces. She emphasized that architecture in her images is not merely a backdrop but actively contributes to the photograph's life. Movement, light, and the structural rhythm of Oman's architecture enhance the images, creating a dialogue between heritage and humanity.
In capturing these photographs, Culianez is guided by her artistic and cultural instincts, allowing her emotions and experiences to shape her work. She explained that she avoids altering the reality of her images, instead focusing on capturing the moment as it resonates with her.
Culianez also touched on the digital age's impact on photography and her desire to create enduring visual memories. Her work aims to slow down the viewer's experience, encouraging them to engage deeply with the images. She believes photography should remain a tangible medium, one that can be revisited over time to build a lasting visual memory.
Concluding her reflections, Culianez expressed hope that her work will open new avenues for experiencing photography, making it accessible to broader audiences. She aspires to create images that are not only seen but experienced in diverse ways, fostering deeper connections with the art form.