Unseen is a photographic series that aims to shed light on the experiences of immigrant workers in Dubai, as they seek moments of rest amidst their demanding and arduous work. Through this collection I explore the significance of chairs as symbols of rest, rejuvenation, and resilience within a community often overlooked in this city.
Dubai's rapid growth and development have led to a huge influx of immigrant workers from all over the world, enabling the construction and maintenance of the city's iconic skyscrapers, infrastructure, and luxurious places. These hardworking men often endure long hours and challenging conditions, yet their immense contributions remain hidden behind the glamorous façade of Dubai's modernity.
The chair, a ubiquitous object found in everyday life, serves as a powerful metaphor in Unseen, where it is used as a visual metaphor for the lives of these workers. These ordinary objects, seemingly insignificant, gain a new dimension as they are pictured in Dubai’s industrial areas that offer a stark contrast between the city’s gloss and the hidden suffering of its labour force.
In this series, I use chairs as a symbol of the workers' fundamental right to rest and the basic dignity they deserve, along with some small sense of belonging. These humble objects, found in various forms and conditions, provide an essential sanctuary where workers can momentarily escape from their labours, testimony to the harsh realities they endure while building the city's dreams. In areas just outside of the popular view of the city, I have captured images of these chairs, used during their short breaks. These images serve to celebrate their resilience and determination to make the best of their limited time to recharge.
A crucial aspect of this series involves the use of chairs that have been salvaged and upcycled, echoing the sustainable practices that can be adopted to support the environment and the immigrant community simultaneously. By highlighting the importance of recycling and responsible consumption, I aim to raise awareness about how small actions can contribute to a more inclusive and caring society. As a photographer, my intention is not to exploit the vulnerability of these individuals further. Instead, Unseen seeks to give voice to those who are often silenced, making their stories audible to the world. I seek to empower the immigrant workers of Dubai by giving them a voice. These images serve as a reminder that behind the skyscrapers and lavish lifestyle there exists a workforce enduring an unequal system.
As viewers engage with Unseen I hope that they will be moved to consider the impact of their choices as consumers. Moreover, Unseen prompts viewers to contemplate the complexities of migration and the dynamics of power. By shedding light on the relationship between these men and that which they help create and sustain, I invite the viewer to question and reflect upon the broader implications of globalisation and economic disparity.