Redha Al Hammad is a photographer and visual artist from Al Qatif, Saudi Arabia. Redha’s work centers narratives in his hometown.
These narratives are grounded in a combination of oral histories and collective memories which weave the past and present together. Many of his projects also explore the implications of urban change on social and cultural dynamics in the region. Redha approaches this by pairing his photographic work with family archives, printmaking, writing and collaboration.
O Breaker of the Louz traces the relationship between the people of Al-Qatif and the freshwater springs that have existed in the area for thousands of years. Originating from rainwater that fell over Hijaz and Najd, rich mineral water fills the ground underneath Al-Qatif.
In the past, these springs single-handedly fueled agriculture and acted as the only source of freshwater in the area for generations. The springs were spaces of gathering, ritual and celebration, holding cultural significance to pre-Islamic and modern societies alike.
Today, many of the springs have dried up and those that have not are nearing the same fate. In this project, photographer and visual artist Redha Al Hammad explores the centrality of freshwater springs to Qatifi identity and lived experience.
Guided by oral histories and folklore, the project fades between past, present, fantasy and reality with family archives, anthotypes and poetry accompanying images of what remains of the freshwater springs in Al-Qatif today.
This project was developed under the mentorship of Roï Saade during the 2025 edition of the Kingdom Photography Award Micro-Residency.
Captured using the Fujifilm X-T5, paired with the XF16-50MM
To see more of Redha’s work, you can follow his instagram: @redhaalhammad or visit his website: https://redhaalhammad.cargo.site/
The Kingdom Photography Award is an annual Saudi Arabian cultural initiative by the Visual Arts Commission, affiliated with the Ministry of Culture. To support and showcase local and international photographers. The award encourages participants to capture stories about everyday life, heritage, and landscapes in the Kingdom, with prizes including cash, FUJIFILM equipment, and mentorship programs. Selected entries are often featured in exhibitions, promoting cultural exchange and building a visual archive of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
To learn more about The Kingdom Photography Award, visit: https://engage.moc.gov.sa/tkpa/
