Tashkeel is hosting a brand new exhibition at FN Designs in Alserkal Avenue. The team are hosting a solo show of documentary photography by UAE national artist Khalid Alastad, called “Little Neighbours”, which is open now to the public.
Recognised in region’s photography circles for his passion, patience, and dedication to the documentation of the UAE’s desert ecosystem, Alastad is showcasing a remarkable curation of more than 100 documentary photographs that seamlessly marries the precision of scientific documentation with the artistry of a seasoned photographer.
Photographer Khalid Alastad
“For Khalid Alastad, photography is not a vocation; it’s a profound passion and a familial tradition. Hailing from a lineage of creatives, with his father, Mohammed Alastad, celebrated as a pioneer artist known for his remarkable paintings and installations in the UAE, Khalid carries the torch forward through his lens. His work is a testament to his love and respect for the UAE, to be able to have the patience and hone his skill in documentary photography that sets him apart and highlights him in the scene of regional nature representation,” said Lisa Ball-Lechgar, the deputy director of Tashkeel.
Little Neighbours includes a detailed range of Alastad’s UAE-based wildlife photography, with a particular focus on insects, birds, reptiles, and arachnids inhabiting the country’s delicate desert ecosystem. Beyond the detailed visuals, Alastad’s work serves as invaluable documentation that can be used as a resource to be studied further, offering an unprecedented insight into the lives and behaviours of these often-overlooked creatures.
“What differentiates Khalid as an artist is his unwavering commitment to conservation, respect for nature, and the patience he brings to his craft. He understands the importance of leaving no trace behind, ensuring that his presence does not disturb the very subjects he seeks to document. It’s not just a duty to his country; it’s a labour of love,” Ball-Lechgar continued.
