Organized by the British Council, Sanaa Exhibition on Yemen held in Sanaa [Archives:2002/25/Local News]

Professional photographer, Monica Fritz has displayed a photo exhibition titled Yemen Outside In which opened Wednesday June 5, sponsored by the British Council. She has worked as a photographer in Florence Italy for since 1986. Her photos have appeared in a variety of magazines, both in Europe and the US. She has visited Yemen four times on assignment. During her visits, she has taken photos of Yemens architecture, people and landscapes. Mujahed Al Mussaabi, from The Yemen Times had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Fritz and record the following interview.
How did you start and why photography?
At the age of 18 I went to art school and discovered that I had a talent and love for photography. I started professional photography in Italy. After 11 years of artistic photography, I began commercial and fashion shoots. I have also worked in Turkey doing advertisement photography.
What attracts you to Yemen?
I like the people, most of my photos capture the people. I dont like to photograph landscapes. I believe natural scenes are better kept in the memory than on a photo. I love the architecture, atmosphere and the simple life of the people. There is so much beauty here. I have traveled all over Yemen, because of this.
Have you held previous exhibitions?
Yes, I have held many exhibitions all over Europe. I have displayed photos of Yemen at many of these shows.
Tell us about your present exhibition?
It coincides with another exhibition held at the British Museum in London titled, Queen Of Sheba, and Treasures of Ancient Yemen. The photos in my exhibition show landscapes, cityscape and portraits from Yemen. As well, I have included photos of Yemenis who live in Britain. This shows us about Yemeni People living here and how they keep their culture.
What is the most important trait of a photographer?
It depends on the type of photography. I think the most important trait is that you have to understand light. You have to study the light and know when to use flash and daylight to advantage. Secondly, feeling out the people you are going to photograph. They ought to be relaxed, when they relax the photo will be better.
Any further comments?
Thanks to the British Council for their support and cooperation.
I wish the people of Yemen to be true to themselves and change for the better.

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