As part of Xposure, the region’s premier event for photographers, filmmakers, and visual storytellers, 1001 Inventions launched a special exhibition exploring the legacy of Ibn al-Haytham, the pioneer of optics and the scientific method.
His groundbreaking work on light, vision, and the camera obscura laid the foundations for modern photography and filmmaking–making his discoveries deeply relevant to today’s creative industries.
Through interactive exhibits, hands-on workshops, and captivating demonstrations, visitors of all ages will uncover the science behind how we see, capture, and interpret the world through images to spark curiosity, and foster an appreciation for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
This experience was inaugurated by His Royal Highness Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasim, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah UAE. It was produced in collaboration with cultural partners uaeBby, House of Wisdom (UAE) and producer Ahmed Salim of 1001 Inventions (UK), a globally renowned educational organization dedicated to celebrating the scientific and cultural heritage of past civilizations. With award-winning exhibitions, films, and learning resources, 1001 Inventions engages millions worldwide, highlighting the contributions of thinkers like Ibn al-Haytham. By merging history with cutting-edge storytelling, this event at Xposure connects the past to the present, showcasing how scientific discoveries continue to shape the art of visual storytelling today.
Through a range of engaging activities, visitors explore the fundamental principles of light, optics, and vision—the same principles that underpin photography and filmmaking. They will experiment with optical illusions, build their own models inspired by the camera obscura, and witness the science of light refraction and image formation in action. The event offers a unique blend of science and creativity, encouraging visitors not only to learn but to tinker, design, and innovate, just as Ibn al-Haytham did centuries ago.
The event is designed to achieve key learning objectives:
✔ Inspire people of all ages to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and pursue creative careers.
✔ Enhance understanding of light, optics, and vision through Ibn al-Haytham’s discoveries.
✔ Offer an immersive, hands-on learning experience that celebrates diversity and intercultural appreciation.
✔ Encourage visitors to experiment, create, and problem-solve, much like photographers and filmmakers do in their craft.
✔ Honor the shared scientific and artistic achievements of past civilizations, demonstrating their lasting impact on modern creativity.
Ahmed Salim, Producer and Director of 1001 Inventions said:
“…by blending history, science, and visual storytelling, this event bridges the gap between art and innovation. Whether you’re a professional photographer, a filmmaker, a science enthusiast, or simply curious about how we see the world, Ibn al-Haytham’s legacy offers a deeper appreciation of the science behind the images we capture every day.”
