Photography is often considered a costly hobby exclusive to those who can afford it. For 15-year-old school drop-out Ahmed Qassim, who works in an aluminium workshop in Cairo’s Al-Gamalia distrct, this costly hobby became accessible after he was contacted by Mostafa Abdel-Aty. Initially proposed as a project for Madad, photographer Mostafa Abdel-Aty organizes the photography exhibition ‘A Day in Al-Gamalia’ which was launched on Sunday, Ferbruary 22nd and wraps up on Wednesday the 25th. Hosted at the FEDA Association in Al-Moez Street, which lies in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Abdel-Aty exhibits the work of five Gamalaia teenagers who participated in the nine-month long photography workshop orchestrated by the photographer. The aim of the workshop and project was to tear down the illusionary wall which has grown over the years between the residents of the neighbourhood, and the frequent visitors who often show interest in photography, painting, or just sightseeing. “Like many people, I often go Al-Moez Street for photography, but during the times when I don’t have my camera on me, I get to hear the different reactions to the visitors’ requests to take photos,” explains Abdel-Aty. “The residents…
This Exhibition Shows Photography Isn’t An Exclusive Hobby For Egypt’s Privileged
February 24, 2015
