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In the midst of the profound transformations that the region is going through, which contribute to reshaping it and obliterating its identity, documenting cultures becomes imperative to safeguarding diverse memories and humanity’s rich tapestry, Thus, The photographer Fatima Abbadi embarked on a mission to preserve and capture these memories, focusing on her family’s hometown, AL- SALT, nestled in Jordan’s heart.
Biography
Fatima Abbadi (1978), an Italian-Jordanian Palestinian freelance photographer, embroiderer, and collector of Jordanian and Palestinian traditional dress based in the Netherlands. Having spent her formative years between the UAE (Abu Dhabi), Jordan, and Italy, she brings a rich multicultural perspective to her work. As a member of the Italian Mignon Group, established in 1995 to promote Street Photography and black and white analogue film, Fatima is committed to redefining the portrayal of women and exploring the phenomenon of Orientalism. Through her photography, she aims to document daily life in Europe and the Middle East, particularly focusing on female subjects. Her overarching goal is to present an authentic narrative often overshadowed by media stereotypes, fostering intercultural bridges for greater understanding and mutual respect.
Al–Salt – A photo documentary project
Photography: Fatima Abbadi, Text: Ismael Abder-Rahman Gil
In our current era, profound shifts in geopolitical, social, and economic landscapes are reshaping regions worldwide, notably the Middle East. This instability, spanning across the Mediterranean and affecting Europe, promises to forever alter the cultures and identities of involved nations. We witness both gradual, almost subconscious, and sudden, violent transformations of entire territories. Whether spurred by globalization, conflicting interests, or ideological imposition, the consequence remains the same: the erosion of cultural heritage and collective memory, and the diminishing of ancient customs and complexities.
Amidst this flux, documenting these cultures becomes imperative to safeguarding diverse memories and humanity’s rich tapestry, now threatened with annihilation. Thus, I’ve embarked on a mission to preserve and capture these memories, focusing on my family’s hometown, Al-Salt, nestled in Jordan’s heart. This city, with its predominant Muslim population intertwined with a significant Christian presence, embodies the intricate fusion of Arab and European influences fostered by the Mediterranean.
Over the past 15 years, I’ve diligently documented Al-Salt’s relentless metamorphosis, striving to preserve its essence and appeal to the conscience of those capable of preserving what remains of its precious heritage. As the city undergoes rapid changes year by year, its traditions and way of life face an existential threat, urging urgent action to safeguard its fading diversity.
Artist Fatima Abbadi will be donating all proceeds of this exhibition and book to SUMOUD Campaign
