The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Starting on the 1st of February and lasting ten days, the Alexandria Photo Week will take off, bringing incredible lectures, workshops, and exhibitions our way. Through its exceptional programme, the event will foster interaction between experienced photographers and aspiring young creatives, covering documentary and journalistic photography, cinematography, fashion, contemporary art, and more. Renowned figures from past editions and international speakers, including National Geographic Society and World Press Photo representatives, contribute to the festival. For all Mediterranean photography enthusiasts, the event should be a life-changing experience. 

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Photopia will organise the inaugural edition of Alexandria Photo Week under the supervision of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Tourism Promotion Authority, and the initiative’s primary donor, the U.S. Embassy in Cairo. The Dutch and French embassies will also participate in the event, which is set to take place in seven major cultural centres in Alexandria: the Jesuit Cultural Center, B’sarya for Arts, the Graeco-Roman Museum, Amideast, 6 Bab Sharq, the French Institute, and the Greek Cultural Center. 

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Photopia’s Alexandria Photo Week promises a diverse learning experience for up-and-coming image-makers, welcoming local and international photographers and filmmakers from various fields. All sessions are accessible to the public for free, embodying inclusivity. Founder Marwa Abou Leila emphasises the festival’s uniqueness, fostering an open cultural exploration and storytelling platform through exhibitions, lectures, and educational events. With a focus on Alexandria and the Delta, attendees become essential partners in unravelling the world of captivating narratives.

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Ruben Harutunian, U.S. Embassy Minister Counselor for Public Affairs, expressed pride in sponsoring the inaugural Alexandria Photo Week, highlighting its role in showcasing Egypt’s photographic talent and the cultural significance of Alexandria. He emphasised the event’s celebration of Farouk Ibrahim’s iconic work, underscoring the enduring U.S.-Egypt partnership.

The programme will foster as many as 40 lectures and eight workshops led by World Press Photo, National Geographic Society, and others, covering topics like photomontage, architectural photography, and filmmaking. In addition, eight exhibitions are scheduled during the festival, including an exhibition for Farouk Ibrahim’s iconic photographs, the 2023 World Press Photo exhibition, and the “Sard” exhibition depicting stories and documentaries across three cultural centres. Additional exhibits feature press photos, Alexandria in the 1930s-40s, and thematic displays, including “Roman Story” and “Abdullah Sabry” on fashion photography. The festival’s rich lineup marks a significant cultural milestone in Alexandria’s history.

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