Made of Salt and Air is a photographic project that captures the coastal landscapes of Aden. Motivated by the city's recent political, social, and environmental changes, the artist aims to convey the resilience and enduring connection between the people of Aden and the sea. Through the interplay of light, color, and rhythm, the artist seeks to evoke a sense of belonging and harmony that the city’s history has shaped, where the people immerse themselves in the environment, patiently waiting for the perfect convergence of elements that evoke a sense of sadness, joy, and connection by the water's edge. By contemplating the images, viewers are invited to reflect on their connection to nature and its profound impact on our lives.
The project’s main goal is to visually capture and convey the profound harmony between the sea and the people of Aden, highlighting their inextricable relationship and the transformative power that arises when these two entities meet. Through evocative imagery, the project aims to inspire viewers to reflect on their connection to nature and recognize its profound impact on our lives.
Abeer Aref, born 1995 in Sana'a, is a Yemeni artist and architect who uses photography to capture the beauty of everyday moments. Her work has gained recognition for its poignant and intimate portrayal of daily life and emotions. In 2020, she had her first photography showcase called JAMAAD. Her latest work, So Far Away, Yet So Close, explores the feelings of longing and homesickness that come with being separated from loved ones. Her artistic practice not only delves into personal experiences but also reflects on broader themes of connection and distance.
Her work has been exhibited in various locations, including Sana'a, Dubai, New York, Amman, and Berlin. As an emerging artist, Abeer has been featured in several media outlets such as i-D, The New Arab, The Middle East Eye, and Zenith.
Favourite Moment
"Seeing the project tangibly after printing instead of seeing the image on the screen of the camera and the laptop while selecting and editing. Seeing people's reactions to the exhibition and hearing their opinions about the project idea and the images and how it reminded them of a memory, person, or song. The presence of children in the exhibition and seeing how they interact with the Images and what their favorite images are, I believe, is what makes this exhibition successful because we need their interest in art and for art to be available to them."
