Two movie set designers from Italy have expressed their keenness to collaborate with filmmakers in Qatar in the field of cinematography.
Alida Cappellini and Giovanni Licheri delivered a talk during a conference on Sunday at the Bin Jelmood House, organised by the Italian embassy in Qatar, in co-operation with at Msheireb Museums.
The event, which also marked the first edition in Qatar of “Fare Cinema (“Making Films”) – The Italian Movie Industry,” aims to promote the ingenuity and creativity of Italian movie set designers.
In a statement to Gulf Times, Cappellini and Licheri lauded “the extraordinary path Qatar is following in cultural fields, and in the field of cinematography.”
“We found a vibrant environment, interested in knowing further about the Italian filmmaking industry. Our hope is that Italy and Qatar could implement common projects in the field of cinematography,” the statement said.
Italian ambassador Pasquale Salzano noted that Italy has a great tradition of quality cinema and its contemporary film production is supported by the Italian Institutions as an integral part of the promotion of ‘Brand Italy’ throughout the world.
“Fare Cinema in Qatar has the purpose to let our Qatari friends know more about the Italian filmmaking industry, enhance the interests of the public and engage qualified industry operators,”
the envoy stressed.
On the occasion of the first edition of Fare Cinema, Salzano said they decided to focus on the important role played by movie set designers in Italy.
The programme, launched by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in the framework of the first Week of the Italian Cinema in the World, is aimed at promoting “Made in Italy” quality film production abroad.
“Italy is one of the famous countries recognised for its creative art, design and films. We are pleased to host this event to promote the Italian film industry and to build bridges between cultures and communities,” Msheireb Museums director Hafez Ali said in a statement.
“This cultural destination will always serve as a forum to raise awareness of high-quality experiences from across the world, and to enhance the image of Qatar as the land of civilisations that is open to all cultures and backgrounds,” Ali noted.
Dr Cherif Amor, chair and professor of design at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, stressed the importance of training young future movie set designers on the impact of behavioural sciences and lighting on creating set design.
Alida Cappellini (4th, left) and Giovanni Licheri (3rd, right) with Italian ambassador Pasquale Salzano (4th, right), Dr Cherif Amor (3rd, left), Qatari businessman Farhan al-Sayed (2nd left), representatives from Qatari cultural institutions, dignitaries and diplomats.
