MICHAEL BANKS is a British photo-artist, whose unusual abstract photography has caught the attention of the Middle East. We spoke to him prior to his upcoming show at the museum-boutique, DNA Riyadh.

Did you train as an artist or photographer? If so, where?

Actually I studied my MA in Fine Art, in Florence, at the Accademia de Belle Arte. I thought I was going to be a painter, but during my incredible time in Florence, someone gave me a camera. At first I looked at it like an alien machine, but I went out and used it, and instinctively I shot abstract compositions.

What do you think of the DNA Riyadh as a space?

DNA Riyadh is a pioneering space where East meets West, and the contemporary meets the classic…always creating a new future. For those reasons, it is a perfect philosophical fit with my photo-art.

What is the concept behind your new exhibition?

The new exhibit will feature new abstract photo-art, all created in the last year, with some revolutionary pieces of Neo-Baroque furniture, that feature my photo-art as an integral part of their design. The concept of the show is all about showing the potential of photography – going beyond what we’ve seen 1000 times before.

How did you manage to get your work on show there?

I had been in Paris and New York in the last year, and I kept hearing Deena’s [Princess Deena Abdulaziz] name. I researched what she had been doing, rang her, explained my idea for a show, and she said yes.

How do you like the Middle East?

I’ve had a long connection with the Middle East – my parents worked in Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the early 70’s, and I spent many holidays there, when it was totally undeveloped. I’ve always felt comfortable in Arabic culture and geography.

From having an idea, to end product, what’s your creative process?

It usually starts with a quiet thought – shapes, forms, compositions appearing in my head. Then I try and articulate those ideas using the camera as my paintbrush - painting with light.

What do you think the future holds for art in the Middle East?

The Middle East is a highly receptive zone to art in general, and has a rich tradition of its own art. I find it a very democratic place – receptive and embracing of newness.

Written by Siobhan Leddy

Images courtesy of Michael Banks