Achmad Kafin Noeman and Gevi Noviyanti, two renowned Indonesian photographers, are using their cameras to capture Qatar’s vivid landscapes, and rich heritage and culture. 

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The two photographers were selected as part of the “Photography Journey Through Indonesia and Qatar” initiative as part of the larger Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture.

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Every year, Qatar exchanges two photographers with a partner country as part of the Photography Journey, the longest-running cultural exchange programme of Qatar Museums' “Years of Culture” initiative.

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 The intitiatve aims to use the power of photography to shine light on the issues of biodiversity and food security, urbanization and contemporary futures.

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Under this year’s theme of “The Fading Traditions of Qatar and Indonesia,” Achmad Kafin Noeman and Gevi Noviyanti are documenting Qatar’s rich cultural heritage and traditional practices that are at risk of disappearing. 

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They visited a number of cultural and heritage sites, including Zekreet, Al Zubarah Fort, Purple Island, and the National Museum of Qatar, as well as the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project at Msheireb Downtown Doha, among others.

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The two photographers are renowned in Indonesia and globally. Whereas Achmad Kafin Noeman is known for his keen eye for detail and unique approach to visual storytelling, Gevi Noviyanti has gained a reputation as an portrait and landscape photographer with a unique ability to infuse emotions into her photos.

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The two are being mentored by Khalifa Al Obaidly, a doyen of the Qatari photography scene and the Managing Director of the Tasweer Photo Festival Qatar.

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Khalifa Al Obaidly stated: “Photography is not just about capturing images; it involves storytelling, preserving cultural heritage, and conveying emotions. Through this exchange, I hope to share my knowledge and passion for documenting Qatari heritage and inspire these talented photographers. Together, we can celebrate and preserve cultural heritage and create lasting connections between Qatar and Indonesia.”

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The Indonesian photographers, along with their Qatari counterparts who will visit Indonesia this July, will showcase their respective journeys in a photobook and exhibition at the Jakarta International Photography Festival (JIPFEST 2023) to be held from September 8-24 in Jakarta, Indonesia.