Ghada Khunji’s Testament to Timeless Identity
In an era dominated by selfies and digital filters, Bahraini photographer Ghada Khunji offers a striking counterpoint— a picture that champions authenticity, permanence, and human connection. Her latest solo exhibition, Akkas Portrait Studio, currently showcased at Al Riwaq Art Space in Bahrain, is not just a series of portraits — it is an intimate study of identity and the shared human experience.
Ghada Khunji describes her work as an invitation to step back in time, away from the “ephemeral nature of mobile photography”. She aims to strip away the distractions of modernity, focusing solely on the “unfiltered humanity” of her subjects.
An acclaimed Bahraini photographer whose work spans fashion, documentary, and fine art, Ghada captures the essence of landscapes and human connections. She explores themes of identity and emotions through her lens.
“Each portrait I create is more than just an image; it is a declaration of life itself, a moment preserved as undeniable proof of existence,” she states.
Unlike traditional studio photography, Akkas Portrait Studio is mobile — Ghada has set up her temporary studio across various locations in Bahrain, including Youth City Bahrain, Riffa Fort, and Muharraq Nights. Using a Hasselblad camera, a tripod, LED lights, and a simple chair, she creates a stripped-down setting where subjects are encouraged to present themselves naturally, free from forced expressions or performative smiles.
Ghada feels that a smile is indicative of the person being aware of the camera whereas “when one doesn’t smile, it shows the person’s inner soul.”
Tamper-Proof Portraits: A Bold Artistic Statement
One of the most striking elements of Ghada’s project is her decision to present each portrait in a tamper-proof forensic evidence bag—a deliberate and symbolic choice.
“This packaging is a statement: you are enough, just as you are. No one has the right to ‘tamper’ with your essence,” she explains.
By sealing the portraits in forensic bags, Khunji transforms them into “certified proof of life”, reinforcing her belief that every person is whole, complete, and worthy of celebration. This unique presentation challenges the heavily edited, perfection-driven culture of modern photography, urging viewers to “embrace their true selves”.
A Living Archive of Bahrain’s Diversity
Since the project began in February 2024, Khunji has photographed over 1,395 individuals, creating a vast visual archive of Bahrain’s diverse population. Her portraits capture people from all walks of life, weaving together a powerful tapestry of identities that reflect the country’s cultural richness.
“My mission is to document our collective identity, preserving these moments as timeless evidence of our shared journey,” she states.
Her approach has resonated deeply with the community, as her studio settings have allowed everyday people—strangers, families, young and old—to participate in this artistic dialogue.
Beyond Photography: The Power of Human Connection
At its core, “Akkas Portrait Studio” is more than an exhibition—it is an “exploration of the unseen connections between individuals”.
Ghada describes the experience of portrait-making as deeply personal and transformative, “In the instant the camera clicks and the world around us fades away, there is a deep connection between myself and my subject—a connection that resonates with the unity of our shared existence. This connection is the magic of portrait photography, and it fuels my passion and commitment to this art form.”
In a world oversaturated with digitally manipulated images, Ghada’s work reminds us that true identity is not something that needs to be edited or enhanced—it simply exists, whole and perfect as it is.
With every portrait, she adds to an ever-growing narrative—one that speaks of life, diversity, and the timeless beauty of being human.
