ixi: The Lens of Change – Visual Narratives of Minimalism and Sustainability
Having spent countless hours immersed in the fast-paced world of advertising in Dubai, ixi worked with some of the finest photographers on ad campaigns. Over time, however, he became increasingly aware of the environmental and social impact of consumerism. He learned that the average household in wealthy countries owns over 300,000 items, and the advertising industry’s relentless push for growth was costing the earth nearly $3 trillion in environmental, social, and human health damage annually.
This realization was a turning point for him. Determined to offset his own footprint from years in advertising, he now supports ethical brands and uses his photography to raise awareness about sustainability and minimalism. His art is no longer just about aesthetics; it’s about making a positive impact. Currently, he is dedicating himself to a long-term photography project that embodies these values, capturing the beauty of simplicity and the importance of mindful living.
“Anomaly”
In a lush forest filled with greenery, ixi found a young tree that stood out. Unlike its leafy neighbors, this tree was bare, a stark contrast that caught his eye. As he took different shots, a falcon suddenly flew into the frame, adding an unexpected twist to the composition. This serendipitous moment highlighted the beauty of nature’s surprises and made the photo truly unique.
“Sons of Sand”
The desert has a way of teaching simplicity. One morning, ixi saw a father and son, dressed in traditional thobes, appear on a distant dune. They were tiny figures against the vast desert backdrop. This scene, where human presence is dwarfed by nature, was a lucky moment for him, sitting there with his camera ready to capture it. The image speaks of minimalism and the quiet power of nature.
“Rebellion”
In the harsh desert, ixi found a small shrub standing resilient among the red sand and brown rocks. This little plant was a symbol of life’s ability to thrive even in tough conditions. He chose a simple composition to show this shrub’s quiet rebellion against its environment, emphasizing the potential for life in the most unlikely places.
“Behind Bars”
Dubai is known for its glamorous, Instagram-worthy spots, but ixi loves the charm of Old Dubai. He discovered an interesting steel grill and thought it would be perfect to frame a subject through it. This shot captures the essence of the old city, blending history with a modern viewpoint.
“Souk x 2”
In Old Dubai again, ixi was drawn to the lines in the architecture and waited for a person to walk into his frame. He used double exposure to add depth to the image, giving it a vintage look that matches the location’s old-world charm. This technique adds layers to the photo, inviting viewers to explore its details.
“Horsepower”
In a Bahraini sunset, IXI juxtaposes the grace of a lone horse with the power of a 4×4 vehicle. On a beach where both horse riders and off-road enthusiasts gather, he captured the moment when these symbols of strength met. The high-key edit emphasizes their contrast, turning a simple scene into a striking statement on power and elegance.
ixi’s journey shows how art can inspire a more thoughtful and sustainable world. Through his lens, he captures stunning images and sparks conversations about the effects of our choices. His work reminds us that every detail has a story worth telling.
The pictures and perspectives expressed above are those of the author(s) alone and do not represent the views of Rare Storyteller or its team.
to the world.