Much-awaited DSS 2006 Photography Exhibition opens at BurJuman

On display at the 40 stands are a total of 360 compelling images from 72 diverse photographers of different nationalities, including UAE nationals.

The photo exhibition, organised as a part of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), was inaugurated at a special opening hosted by HE Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of Dubai Cultural Council (DCC) last evening (Mon). The event is a compilation of images from talented, professionals of leading media organisations and amateur photographers.

The five-day exhibition will run daily, and visitors will no doubt want to return to visit their favourite pieces more than once. The themes for the pictures are as diverse as the photographers: Dubai's architecture, ships, people, roads and nature are just some of them.

Event sponsor, Kodak, has also set up an interactive set up between Louis Vuitton and Havana Café, open from 5pm to 10pm daily. Shoppers can learn about the latest innovations in photographic technology, and even strike a pose for the camera.

The event also includes a competition on photgography making it a virtual crash-course in the century-old art form.

The exhibition is divided into three sections; in the Photojournalists division, the region's foremost news photographers have showcased their hard-hitting factual pictures. The 'Professional Photographers' section features diverse styles from some of the world's leading figures, and the 'Talented Photographers' section allows the public a glimpse of many gifted non-professionals. Each featured photographer has presented five photographs on a specific theme.

Displays have been organised at three different locations: opposite Chanel & Cartier, opposite Tod's and Havana Cafe, and opposite Burberry near the Fountain Court.

Says Laila Suhail, DSS Executive Project Director,

"This five-day Photography Exhibition is a tribute to photographers and their contribution to the world of imagery. This is the second time that we are holding this event after the enthused response we received to last year's exhibition. We have added many more interesting components to the event this year and we are sure that in future this event will gain recognition on its own amongst both professional and amateur photographers in the region and around the world."

The DSS will also hold a grand World Photographer's Day Celebration. Participants, winners and renowned international names from the photography world will all gather together for a grand gala dinner on the final day of the event.

This special evening will not only recognise the participants and award the winners but will also celebrate the International World Photographers Day on August 19 at Al Multaqa Ballroom of the Dubai World Trade Center, the final day of the DSS Photography Exhibition.

"This event is an effort at searching and recognising the myriad talents of photographers both within the community and in our media. It helps us stress upon the recognition of the role that photographers play in the media. And will also give laypeople the insight into the precision with which a particular situation or person is depicted. It also stresses upon the impact of photographers and photographs on the emirates lifestyle. More than that it allows us to link photographers with the DSS Media Center," added Laila.