Since my childhood, the Middle East has ignited an immense curiosity within me.
First, through literature and cinema. Novels, stories, history, and travel diaries transported me to distant lands, unveiling cultural and geographical landscapes that sparked my imagination and curiosity. It was my initial step into exploring a vast and diverse region, rich in historical and cultural wealth.
As time went by, my connection with the Middle East deepened even further through photography. The camera became my tool to witness and capture the realities I encountered on my journey. As I traversed the streets of ancient cities and boundless deserts, I was constantly intrigued by the everyday life and the richness of the human experience. Each portrait, each captured scene, represented a fragment of the region’s rich history and the diversity of its people.
The Middle East, with its captivating, mysterious, and magical aura, continues to exert its power of allure. It stands as the cradle of civilizations, where history converges with the present, and ancient traditions endure in modern life. This region has also witnessed unresolved conflicts that have left deep imprints on both the land and its inhabitants. Islam, omnipresent, permeates every aspect of life and culture in this diverse land.
At the heart of this vast and diverse Middle East, Iran stands out as a nation of significant relevance and influence. Often associated with the Islamic Revolution, its true wealth lies in its people. Iranians are renowned for their hospitality, warmth, and welcoming demeanor towards visitors. Their everyday lives are a mosaic of traditions, creativity, and resilience that transcend stereotypical perceptions.
My journey to Iran in 2016 became a visual testament to my ongoing desire to explore and understand this region. Each captured photograph is a chapter in the ever-evolving story of my relationship with the Middle East. I yearn to return soon, to continue discovering and learning more about Iran and its people, to delve into the complexities, joys, and challenges that make up life in this unique land.
This photographs pay tribute to the beauty and richness of life in the Middle East, as well as serve as a reminder of the importance of exploring and understanding this fascinating region.
© Nicolas Preci
