"THE GUARDIANS"

In “The Guardians”, Antaki journeys through Europe, the Middle East, and America, capturing portraits of shopkeepers he calls “Guardians”—custodians of unique “urban temples” that preserve the character of our cities amid rising corporate uniformity. His life-sized, immersive portraits draw viewers into these forgotten spaces, revealing the quiet resilience and beauty within. Each photograph is taken within minutes of meeting, capturing an unguarded exchange between strangers, with the “Guardian” positioned at the heart of their “temple.” Antaki’s innovative approach includes displaying portraits in closed shop windows, transforming overlooked urban corners into living galleries. Through this approach, he seeks to evoke presence in spaces where life once thrived, giving these “Guardians” a renewed visibility. Through this series, Antaki aims to honor and preserve the memory of these spaces as they slowly vanish, reminding us of their vital role in the soul of our cities.

“Through his photographic survey, Antaki addresses the social value and fragile nature of individualized work in an increasingly homogenized, consumerist society. In our highly technological era, where the past is quickly forsaken by a lust for the newest, latest, and greatest, the economic conditions supporting those purveyors of our quirky cultural “heirlooms” are gradually becoming more tenuous. Work places themselves are increasingly democratized, depersonalized and scaled-up for the sake of commercial efficiency. The artist sees this, and he responds. The sitters tell their stories, but also implicit in these images is the close association of each person to the articles they have surrounded themselves with, which prompts us to consider the psychological relationship between each subject and their created environment. Antaki steps deeply into the treasured realms of these individuals. With his acute perception of the present moment and a gentle curiosity he eloquently takes stock, allowing us privileged access to the idiosyncratic wealth of the Guardians.”

- Edward Burtynsky