28th Photography Week begins at Sultan Qaboos University

Muscat: The 28th Photography Week, titled Bawn, commenced at the Sultan Qaboos University under the patronage of Dr Abdulmunim bin Mansour Al-Hasani, former Minister of Information.

Organised annually by the Photo Society at the Deanship of Student Affairs, the event fosters an atmosphere of artistic expression and creativity.

The opening ceremony featured a speech by the society’s president, Ali Al-Ruqaishi, who expressed gratitude to the beloved Oman for the blessings it has bestowed upon people.

He emphasised the role of the Photo Society in nurturing students’ talents since its establishment in 1991 and its commitment to developing their skills.

He further noted that this week is the culmination of continuous hard work and dedication by the society’s members and affiliates.

Following the speech, a series of video clips and presentations were showcased, including a montage depicting the society’s journey leading up to the launch of the week, excerpts from its annual trip, a visual display of the exhibited photographs, and the announcement of this year’s winning images in the open category.

The first-place prize was awarded to the photograph Asjadi by Al Hasan Al-Yaarubi. Doctoral student Manal Al-Kindi secured second place for her photograph Fudhul, while the third-place award went to Sadeem al-Jibal by Al Khalil Al-Saqri.

In the project category, the winning team comprised Hiba Al-Jabri, Kawthar Al-Jabri, Hajar Al-Nabhani, and Yumna Al-Gharbi for their project Tajallad.

The theme of Photography Week is encapsulated in the word Bawn, which is synonymous with ‘contrast’. It highlights the interplay between light and shadow, where neither can exist meaningfully without the other.

This contrast defines nature’s features and gives each individual their unique identity while simultaneously uniting them. Stepping back to observe, one realises that our differences ultimately connect us, forming a singular yet diverse entity.

In its 28th edition, the Photo Society celebrates contrast as an idea, a universal principle, and a visual philosophy that encourages an appreciation of true beauty—the harmony between opposing elements that blend and diverge to create a striking sensory and visual experience.

Photography Week aims to expand this dialogue through a variety of artistic works. The accompanying exhibition includes 15 portrait photographs, five nature-themed images, 15 photographs capturing everyday life, as well as images showcasing architectural beauty, wildlife, and abstract photography.

The 28th Photography Week continues until 20 March and features various activities, including artistic workshops, exhibitions, and other accompanying events.

It is worth noting that this event is organised annually by the Photography Society under the Deanship of Student Affairs at the university.