Sharjah24: The ongoing 7th annual edition of the International Photography Festival ‘Xposure’ has revolutionised the way photography is exhibited. The way the aesthetics have been planned around each of the 68 solo and group exhibitions showcased at the festival, make the exhibition spaces as noteworthy as the works displayed in them.

The festival creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for each exhibition, offering a choice between tranquil white gallery settings and enigmatic darkly lit environments. For instance, Hanaa Turkistani's exhibition "Art of Motion" sits in a classic white gallery setting, immersing viewers in the fluidity of motion captured in her photographs. In contrast, Gabriel Wikbold's "Surface", which redefines portraiture using subjects as a human canvas for artistic expression is submerged in darkly lit environments to evoke a sense of mystery. 

These contrasting surroundings have been crafted by the organisers of the festival, the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), to encourage aesthetic appreciation among the visitors and immerse them fully in the photographer's world, making the experience unforgettable.

Not just limited to traditional white and dark settings, the festival also explores unique and creative environments. For example, Andrew Semark's "Bombora", which is a rare visual treat of large areas of waves breaking in the ocean, sits in a tranquil blue exhibition space that has a calming effect while also demonstrating the raw power possessed by the ocean. 

The festival this year has expanded its outreach to capture the imagination and interests of a wider target audience including photographers, curators, gallerists, designers, cinematographers, and art enthusiasts, providing a platform for photographers to showcase their work to a global audience and for creative professionals to network and exchange ideas. 

Xposure International Photography Festival is not just a display of photography, it is a celebration of creativity and the diversity of artistic expression. The range of styles and settings attract photographers of all backgrounds and experience levels, making the festival a hub of creativity. This diversity of talent is reflected in the exhibitions, showcasing a wide range of subjects and styles, from classical to innovative.