Renowned Bahraini street photographer Mustafa Bastaki is showcasing his striking works at the famed Muharraq Nights festival, presenting a visual narrative rich in mystery, movement and cultural depth.
The dual exhibition entitled ‘Echoes in Motion + Between Moves’ comprises two artworks, each consisting of three photos that together weave a compelling story.
The 38-year-old from Manama captured ‘Echoes in Motion’ at Muharraq Nights last year. It shows Bahraini women singing and dancing to folk songs outside Al Jalahma House on the historic Pearling Path. Shot using the Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) technique, the images possess a distinctive, dynamic quality that enhances their artistic impact.
‘Between Moves’ was shot at a traditional café in Muharraq two years ago and employs a monochrome style.
The final shot from the Between Moves series
“The idea behind ‘Echoes in Motion’ was to create something abstract and mysterious,” Mr Bastaki, who has been pursuing his passion behind the lens for the last 14 years, told the GDN.
“I didn’t want to show the face. The photos are vibrant, full of life and a little bit chaotic,” he added, highlighting that most of his work follows this style.
“The woman drumming is the lead, those in blue are her backup and the wide photo shows the main vocalist. Even today, when I see the photos, I can hear their voices in my head, which is why I named the series ‘Echoes in Motion’.”
Born into an artistic family, the engineer by qualification always had an artistic streak. Yet, it was sunsets that truly drew him to photography.
The drummer shot from Echoes in Motion displaying fine photographic technique
“I used to chase sunsets. One day, it rained and then stopped and the whole world turned a vibrant pink. It was magical, I had my iPhone 3GS with me and clicked some shots and that is where my journey began,” he revealed.
From that moment, his passion grew. He invested in a camera and began learning various techniques through YouTube tutorials. Applying these skills, he captured more sunsets, cityscapes, and landscapes, steadily refining his craft.
All the while, he nurtured a passion for street photography. However, the idea of capturing candid moments without people’s consent initially made him feel anxious. Over time, the shutterbug learned the ropes and found creative solutions – using silhouettes and shadows to preserve anonymity.
“I learned how to approach people. If you go through my Instagram, you will notice that there are no identifiable faces because I like to keep the subjects mysterious – just like my exhibits,” he explained.
He emphasised that patience, keen observation, and a strong sense of storytelling are the three essential qualities for street photography.
Ladies in motion
In ‘Between Moves’, the lensman plays with lighting and incorporates props in the scene to retain the mystery. For instance, there is a lamp hanging over the table that covers the face of the subject in one of the photographs.
“Each of the three shots complements the others. There’s one showing the entire scene and is more detailed. The second focuses on the player’s hand signalling his impatience as he waits for his opponent’s move. The third, an overhead shot, is one with the hands on the carrom board, symbolising victory,” he explained, weaving the story ‘between moves’. The monochromatic effect adds a certain depth to the series.
The freelance photographer, who has worked on several projects in Bahrain and the Gulf region, has plans to compile his monochromatic works into a book that he hopes to release next year.
“I have been working on my book, Monochrome Bahrain, for the last three years and am excited to finally bring it out. My goal for the New Year is the book and I also want to showcase my photos in a solo exhibition,” he added.
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