Sky’s the limit for Saudi photographer

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Raised in the US, Mohammed Ghazi’s return to the Kingdom during the COVID-19 era opened up a world of opportunities at the intersections of drone piloting and aerial cinematography. (Instagram/moe.fpv)
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Raised in the US, Mohammed Ghazi’s return to the Kingdom during the COVID-19 era opened up a world of opportunities at the intersections of drone piloting and aerial cinematography. (Instagram/moe.fpv)
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Mohammed Ghazi with his drone in AlUla. (Supplied)
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Raised in the US, Mohammed Ghazi’s return to the Kingdom during the COVID-19 era opened up a world of opportunities at the intersections of drone piloting and aerial cinematography. (Instagram/moe.fpv)
Updated 13 July 2023
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Sky’s the limit for Saudi photographer

  • The drone master who is capturing breathtaking cinematic shots of the Kingdom

 

DHAHRAN: Armed with a backpack full of heavy gear and a quiet confidence, 24-year-old Mohammed Ghazi takes a deep breath as he puts his work goggles on. Then the magic, or buzzing, begins.

At the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture’s (Ithra) library, the quiet space jolts to life as Ghazi’s drone takes flight. While photographers are often spotted at the stunning library, it is unusual to see images being captured by a drone during working hours. 

Ghazi, who has many family members in Dhahran, feels a personal connection to the city. On getting the rare opportunity to fly his drone camera at Ithra’s library, he told Arab News: “I always thought ‘I can’t wait for the chance to get to drone it,’ which is not that easy. No one gets to drone Ithra. So it is a real honor to get to say that I was able to — and not outside, inside.”

The drone flies over the bookshelves and above visitors. It is almost enough to give you motion sickness — but Ghazi remains unfazed. As the son of a pilot, flying is in his blood.




With the use of drones, Mohammed Ghazi  intends to tell the visual stories of the Kingdom’s many regions and its people. (Supplied)

From a very young age, he would visit his father at work in the cockpit. The experience propelled him to pursue that same love but with his own take on it.

“I gravitated toward drones, which is fun, because my dad was a pilot for Saudia Airlines,” he said. Ghazi had meant to follow in his father’s footsteps, but eventually ended up going to art school.

Born in Jeddah, Ghazi moved to the US when he was two years old. During his childhood in Philadelphia he developed a love of films, and when it was time to choose a major for university, he opted for a bachelor’s in film design and production.

Ghazi’s mother enrolled at the same university to earn her master’s degree in art education. They were in some of the same classes, which led to some healthy competition between mother and son.

He never stopped longing to visit Saudi Arabia, and when classes shifted to online learning during COVID-19, he jumped at the chance to visit his hometown. It was meant to be a short trip to visit family in Jeddah, but Ghazi was amazed at how different yet familiar his birthplace was.

He never flew back to the US. “My round trip was for two weeks. I went and ended up staying. I never went back ‘home.’ I was so shocked — it just was a whole different Saudi,” he said.

After witnessing the transformation of the country, Ghazi realized that the Kingdom was full of opportunities and that he wanted to be a part of the change. Instead of watching from afar, he decided to take his filmmaking skills and aim for lift off. 

“I hit the ground running working on film productions … and gravitated toward drone operating. Prior to drone operating, I was just kind of testing the waters in the film industry here, I was doing a little bit of everything but it never really fit — I didn’t feel like it was me,” he said.

Ghazi found a way to merge his love of adventure and filmmaking with his passion for flying. With his interest and knowledge in aviation, he taught himself how to operate different types of drones.

He ended up favoring the First Person View, or FPV, drones, which include goggles.

However, working them is not as easy as it may look, and sometimes there are losses. “A big part of the game is crashing. But, you know, what’s more important than crashing is picking up the pieces and getting back up.

“It’s like a life lesson for me, no matter what happens, no matter how many times you get knocked down, you have got to get back up, no matter how difficult the shot is,” Ghazi said.




With his interest and knowledge in aviation, Mohammed Ghazi taught himself how to operate different types of drones. (Supplied) 

While filming, Ghazi tends to bring several backups because the process can be risky. “I’m always pushing the limits.” he said. “If you’re a director and you tell me ‘Hey, can we get this shot?’ I’ll take a look at it. I’ll think of my own way to kind of spice it up and make it a little bit difficult, more intriguing, more breathtaking. And sometimes that takes a little bit of a risk.”

Ghazi recalled that on one occasion he handed his father a second pair of goggles to see what he was doing.

“My dad is a commercial airline pilot, which means he’s all about safety and the right procedures. When he sees me doing my maneuvers (such as) going up and down, getting super close to people … I would hear him in the background, just making all these noises, holding his breath,” he said.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation has set down regulations for safe drone flying and Ghazi has all of the proper credentials to be a drone pilot. So, while he pushes the limits, he also follows protocol.

The recreational and professional use of drones is legal in the Kingdom but it requires registration, along with a fee and some form-filling.

The process is more streamlined than previously as many local filmmakers are operating drones to experiment with different ways to get aerial shots.

An avid lover of films, when Ghazi watches Hollywood films or European projects, his eye is on the competition. He is honing his skills so that he can get any job done “no matter how difficult the shot is.”

Since returning to the Kingdom a little over two years ago, Ghazi has gotten to know the local community and connect with like-minded individuals.

One such new acquaintance is fashion brand Galag’s co-founder, Sultan bin Mohammed, whom he met by chance a few months ago. The two instantly hit it off, connecting through their mutual love of adventure, films and fast-moving devices.

The pair traveled to Sweden together recently to work on a project. Mohammed brought cars, and Ghazi brought drones to collaborate on some filming. 

“Sultan is like a big brother to me. And before I even met personally, when I was younger in Saudi, I was always looking up to his work. Some of the footage that I got from there is just like world-class, top-notch aerial filmmaking. It’s filmmaking at its finest,” Ghazi said.

His other big collaborator is drone expert Abdulhadi Azouz, who co-founded AZ Aerials with Ghazi. Azouz is also a Saudi who grew up in the US, and is much older than him so able to bring a wisdom and experience that elevates their craft to new heights.

Working together they are able to manage more projects and have developed a strategy for filmmaking and aerial cinematography.

Their clients include the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Sports, Saudia Airlines, Aramco, MDLBeast, the General Entertainment Authority, Riyadh Season, and many other high-profile entities.

Currently based in Riyadh, Ghazi intends to tell the visual stories of the Kingdom’s many regions and its people.

Like the morphing vistas that make up the ever-changing landscapes of the country, you can spot him chasing the shot as his drone whizzes by the ancient formations of AlUla, the rolling mountains of Jazan or even the carefully curated books at Ithra’s library.

Ghazi’s persistence and perseverance, in addition to his insistence that every shot and frame should breathe new life into a project, differentiates him from his peers and competitors.

He is keen to explore the depths under the sea, too. But for now, Ghazi feels most at ease when he is able to capture the country’s story from above. The sky may be the limit, but he’s the one aiming for the compelling new angle.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to fly. Drones are fun, but FPV — it’s a whole different world. It makes me feel like I’m at home. Like right now — when I don’t have my goggles on — I don’t feel that. When I put those goggles on, I feel like ‘OK, I’m here. This is this is where I’m supposed to be.’”


Jeddah Historic District, Cruise Saudi team up to boost visitor numbers, economy

Updated 12 May 2024
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Jeddah Historic District, Cruise Saudi team up to boost visitor numbers, economy

  • Sides sign memorandum of understanding to ‘drive economic growth’
  • Partnership ‘pivotal’ in regeneration of district, Cruise Saudi CEO says

JEDDAH: The Jeddah Historic District Program and Cruise Saudi have agreed to work together to increase the number of international cruise visitors to the city while preserving its cultural and historical integrity.

The program, established in 2018 under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, oversees various initiatives within the so-called Historic Jeddah region with the aim of promoting it as a cultural center.

Cruise Saudi is owned by the Public Investment Fund and manages cruise-related services and infrastructure, including the development of terminals and operation of shore excursions.

Since its creation it has welcomed more than 300,000 cruise passengers.

The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding to boost economic activity and promote the region, using private sector expertise to improve the visitor experience.

The initiative is expected to create jobs, support small businesses and promote long-term economic activities that benefit the entire community.

“The tourism sector is experiencing growth and prosperity, which contributes to enhance the Kingdom’s presence on the global tourism map in line with Saudi Vision 2030,” Abdulaziz bin Ibrahim Al-Issa, director general of the Jeddah Historic District Program, said.

“Our strategic partnership with Cruise Saudi is not only to drive economic growth but also to actively engage in the regeneration of the district. We are committed to protecting both the tangible and intangible heritage that earned the district its UNESCO status.”

Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen said: “This partnership is pivotal in the strategic regeneration and sustainability of the district. With this alliance, we are dedicated to presenting Cruise Saudi tourists with an experience that inspires the visitors with the district's enriched heritage.

“Jeddah’s Historic District is one of our most popular Shorex destinations and we continue to witness just how much international passengers enjoy exploring its unique historic sites through the tours and experiences we offer.

“This MOU represents our shared vision and marks an exciting new chapter, paving the way for collaborative efforts to draw even more visitors to this enchanting destination while protecting its heritage and authenticity.”
 


Riyadh to host Global AI Summit in September

Updated 12 May 2024
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Riyadh to host Global AI Summit in September

  • The summit will bring together international ministers, organization heads, CEOs of major tech companies, and AI experts
  • Topics at the conference will include AI innovation, industry trends, and fostering human talent in AI and other key areas

RIYADH: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority will host the third Global AI Summit from Sept. 10 to 12 at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday. 

Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, president of SDAIA, highlighted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s dedication to advancing the national data and artificial intelligence agenda, aiming to bolster the Kingdom’s global presence in these fields.

The summit will bring together international ministers, organization heads, CEOs of major tech companies, and AI experts to discuss global AI developments and announce initiatives and agreements, advancing international efforts in data and AI under the Kingdom’s banner.

Topics at the conference include AI innovation, industry trends, shaping a better future with AI, fostering human talent in the field, and other key areas.

This summit, under the crown prince’s leadership, is a testament to the successes of Vision 2030, which position Riyadh as a global hub for cutting-edge AI developments, the SPA said. 


Swiss artist pays homage to heritage in Riyadh show

Updated 12 May 2024
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Swiss artist pays homage to heritage in Riyadh show

  • ‘From Roots to Vision’ by Vlad Pocol is inspired by Saudi Vision 2030 and his own personal journey

RIYADH: In Ahlam Gallery’s latest solo exhibition, Swiss painter Vlad Pocol examines the ties that link past, present and future — with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 as a reference point.

“If you could explain your artworks in one word, what would it be?” one listener asked. “Intuition,” Pocol replied, explaining the basis of his first show in the Kingdom.

The artist relied on intuition when he decided only a few months ago that Saudi Arabia would be his new home, leading him to create an exhibition based around three ideas: heritage, transition, and vision.

The immersive exhibition titled “From Roots to Vision: A Migration” urges observers to think about heritage, and challenge the possibilities of the future as we weave our past legacy for generations to come.  

Ambassador of Switzerland to the Kingdom Yasmine Chatila and Pocol discussing a patched installation made of discarded materials salvaged from artwork waste. (Supplied/AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Pocol told Arab News: “It’s great to evolve, but it’s also important to stay rooted in our own heritage. I’ve taken Saudi Arabia as an example. Everyone is so excited with what’s happening with the Vision (2030), but everyone is still so rooted and respectful and inspiring in a collective way … that can also inspire us in an individual way.”

Within the “Heritage” collection, “Identites” delves into the themes of self-reflection and outsider perceptions. Four papier mache panels woven together by rope encourage the viewer to see alternative versions of themselves as they are layered in complexity with oil paint.

It is great to evolve, but it is also important to stay rooted in our own heritage.

Vlad Pocol, Swiss artist

“Legacite” is a series of six artworks that explores the themes of circularity, continuity, and generational cycles. In a single dot, each painting prompts a reflection on the viewer’s part within these continuous loops.  

Swiss artist Vlad Pocol based the exhibition in Riyadh around three ideas: heritage, transition, and vision. (Supplied)

The highlight of the show, “Sans Fin,” is a mirage of moving images constructed by strokes of paint. The piece is inviting, yet mysterious, prompting us to question our capability to grow using the metaphor of a black hole — you never know what may lie in the unknown.  

In 2018, when Pocol was a lawyer, he was invited by a colleague to a workshop centered around recreating the work of a contemporary artist. After an accident that resulted in a damaged painting, he developed a technique to repair the artwork.

Swiss artist Vlad Pocol based the exhibition in Riyadh around three ideas: heritage, transition, and vision. (Supplied)

“My technique gives structural movement. When you see my paintings, you enter a world … it’s moving. My energy also comes up in the artwork,” he said.

In “Transition,” the works invite viewers to consider what lies beneath the surface, with more sculptural works coming into play.

Another installation is made of discarded materials salvaged from artwork waste. What we deem as undesirable is turned into something valuable, and even beautiful, challenging us to reconsider sustainability practices and our role in global consumption.  

In the “Vision” collection, the artist’s optimism about the future is linked to the promise of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

His work “Dessen” is based on a childhood memory of winning his first drawing contest, and celebrates the impact of early creative expressions on future artistic development.  

While “Elles” is a tribute to femininity and the women in his family, nearby twin works are inspired by the artist’s migration from Romania to Switzerland.  

Pocol describes the green-colored “Ja Deu Tu Certo” as “one of the most personal” works in the collection.

“Any pieces I’ve offered to my mom have been green because I really believe in the power of healing and the green (color). My mother has been fighting metastatic cancer for two years now,” he said. The work conveys his belief that “she will be well.”

He said the color also holds significant meaning in Saudi culture, as it stands for pride and patriotism.

Reflecting on showcasing his works in the Kingdom, Pocol said: “It’s so significant to have my exhibition here. While I have roots from Romania, 30 percent of my genes are Middle Eastern. Being here in Saudi Arabia is very subconscious. I feel at peace, like I’m coming back to something.  

“I’ve traveled a lot in my life and it’s the first time I’m able to find a new home outside of Switzerland … once you follow your intuition, it gets you to whatever is meant for you. That’s why I’m here in Saudi Arabia. It’s meant to be.”

The exhibition will run until June 2.

 


Saudi commission explores impact of biennales on artists

Biennales are large-scale exhibitions held every two years that provide a platform for artists to engage with specific themes. (
Updated 12 May 2024
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Saudi commission explores impact of biennales on artists

  • Shahad Al-Blihed analyzed Manal Al-Dowayan’s work “Shifting Sands: A Battle Song,” emphasizing its reflection of Saudi women amid cultural shifts

RIYADH: Various experts recently took part in a virtual meeting to consider the role of biennales in visual art.

The event was organized by the Visual Arts Commission as part of its ongoing review of the sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Biennales are large-scale exhibitions held every two years that provide a platform for artists to engage with specific themes. The meeting outlined the criteria for artist participation, focusing on career robustness and foundational achievements.

Shahad Al-Blihed gave her insights into curating the Saudi pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale.

She analyzed Manal Al-Dowayan’s work “Shifting Sands: A Battle Song,” emphasizing its reflection of Saudi women amid cultural shifts.

The Venice event demonstrated the commission’s commitment to boosting local artists internationally, the report said.

 


Baha’s quaint guesthouses offer a warm welcome

Baha’s lodges provide visitors with a look into the past, a taste of a simpler time that many people long for. (SPA)
Updated 12 May 2024
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Baha’s quaint guesthouses offer a warm welcome

  • Sharifa Al-Ghamdi, owner of Al-Ayed Heritage Guesthouse, revealed that she has worked hard over the years to acquire as many historic houses as possible to be able to give tourists an authentic taste of what life was like in the past

RIYADH: Al-Baha is a region of the Kingdom blessed with a rich legacy of ancient architecture, with heritage lodges playing a big role in luring tourism to the city.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, heritage lodges or guesthouses in the region play an important role in attracting more investment. They provide local and international visitors with a look into the past, a taste of a simpler time that many people long for.

Baha’s lodges provide visitors with a look into the past, a taste of a simpler time that many people long for. (SPA)

The guesthouses are a reflection of the region’s heritage. Al-Baha’s residential buildings, castles and fortresses were designed to suit not just environmental variables such as topography and climate, but also social circumstances such as local customs and ancient traditions.

FASTFACTS

• Heritage lodges or guesthouses in the Baha region play an important role in attracting more investment.

• One of the most enticing elements of these heritage guesthouses is their deep connection with nature.

One of the most enticing elements of these heritage guesthouses is their deep connection with nature.

Baha’s lodges provide visitors with a look into the past, a taste of a simpler time that many people long for. (SPA)

They are constructed using stones and trees from the region, typically granite and basalt boulders adorned with quartz, and roofed with mud-coated juniper trees.

Sharifa Al-Ghamdi, owner of Al-Ayed Heritage Guesthouse, revealed that she has worked hard over the years to acquire as many historic houses as possible to be able to give tourists an authentic taste of what life was like in the past.

Baha’s lodges provide visitors with a look into the past, a taste of a simpler time that many people long for. (SPA)

She said that, with the assistance of her family, she was able to realize her lifelong dream and passion and invest her post-retirement time in establishing heritage tourist guesthouses.

She has transformed the old houses in her village from dilapidated structures into a tourist and environmental attraction for people in search of tranquility and relaxation.