Under Their Eyes - بعيد ألف عيون

Under Their Eyes (بعيد ألف عيون) is a photographic and film project conceived by Hadi Moussally. It features Salma Zahore, with photography and film by Hadi Moussally and Olivier Pagny. This triptych installation places Salma at the center, surrounded by a multitude of eyes, with two additional images of Salma flanking her on either side, looking intensely toward the central figure.

The project explores the cultural concept of the “evil eye,” a widespread belief in the S.W.A.N.A. region. This superstition suggests that negative energy or misfortune can be transmitted through a malicious gaze, often motivated by envy or ill will. The expression “من عينك” (from your eyes) is commonly used to attribute an unfortunate event to another person’s evil eye. Conversely, the phrase “بعيد ألف شر” (a thousand evils away) is invoked as a protective spell to ward off this negative influence.

Under Their Eyes visually examines these cultural notions, using the multiplicity of eyes to represent an omnipresent and often oppressive sense of surveillance, particularly within society. The central figure of Salma, bearing the weight of these gazes, embodies the tension and vulnerability associated with being subjected to the evil eye. The project not only highlights these regional beliefs, but also opens a wider dialogue on the impact of societal judgment and the human experience of feeling watched and judged.

Creative Director: Hadi Moussally
Starring: Salma Zahore
Photography and Film: Hadi Moussally and Olivier Pagny
Production: h7o7

Read article on Kaltblut Magazine

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