Born in 1980 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Vladimir Antaki discovered his passion for visual storytelling early. Enriched by cinema studies in Paris, art history at the Sorbonne, and fine arts training in Montreal, he developed a broad, global perspective on culture and art. Yet his creative impulse guided him toward the hyper-local—focusing on the modest shops, workshops, and market stalls most of us might walk past without a second glance.

It’s precisely this tension between Antaki’s cosmopolitan background and the unassuming places he photographs that drives his artistry. Rather than showcasing grand, instantly recognizable landmarks, he turns his lens on spaces that could easily fade into anonymity. He calls these places “urban temples”—remnants of a bygone era—not because they serve as literal houses of worship, but because he regards them as sacred repositories of culture, memory, and genuine human connection.

Antaki’s work is rooted in the tension between preserving history and adapting to modern realities. He does not propose halting change or romanticizing the past as an unspoiled paradise. Instead, his photography calls for balance: ensuring that small, traditional hubs survive alongside new developments, so our shared future remains vibrant and multifaceted rather than monotonously uniform.

By treating these modest businesses as monuments worth celebrating, Antaki redefines our idea of what is monumental. In towering cityscapes of glass and steel, his subjects become islands of authenticity, reminding us that the true essence of a community often lies in places overlooked by hurried modern life.

Antaki’s art is deeply rooted in a reverence for cultural memory, diversity, and human connection. His celebrated series, The Guardians, is a profound testament to this commitment, paying homage to artisans and tradespeople—custodians of what he calls “urban temples.” These spaces stand as remnants of a bygone era, in stark contrast to the homogenized landscapes of modern retail.

Known for his visually striking portraits, Antaki captures the essence of these individuals and their environments, inviting viewers to explore the beauty and history of often-overlooked spaces. In 2019, his dedication to historical and cultural preservation was highlighted with the publication of a monograph on The Guardians by Kehrer Verlag, featuring a preface by Edward Burtynsky.

Antaki’s work serves as a bridge between the past and present, bringing the forgotten into the light. His exhibitions, showcased in public spaces and galleries across France, North America, Lebanon, Lithuania, the UK, and China, reach a diverse and appreciative audience.

The exhibition Parfums d'Orient (Perfumes of the East), which recently concluded in both Paris at the Institut du Monde Arabe and in Riyadh, invited viewers on a sensory journey through the perfume souks of the Sultanate of Oman and Riyadh. Featuring life-size portraits paired with soundscapes, the immersive experience reflected Antaki's dedication to preserving human stories and honoring cultural heritage.