Lifestyle

The medium does not matter if you are truly artistic, says renowned photographer Hikmat Wehbi

Published

5 years ago

May 19, 2020

Artists have the unique ability to utilize many different types of mediums to create and inspire audiences worldwide. While many artists might be famous for the use of a particular medium, the truth is they have all experimented with different kinds throughout their careers. Being a successful artist is all about taking risks, and renowned photographer Hikmat Wehbi built his career on a combination of talent and exceptional use of mixed media.

Hikmat Wehbi is a world-famous photographer currently living in Dubai. Originally from Beirut, he is the founder of W Studio, a creative director and director of photography. Hikmat started his business focused on fashion and portraits but quickly adapted to a changing marketplace due to his keen eye for creativity and his ability to embrace it. “Photography is all about maximizing the beauty of a moment, and you have to be willing to experiment,” says Hikmat. “Experimentation is at the root of all artistic talent.”

What sets Hikmat apart is his ability to see potential in all types of mediums. Hikmat doesn’t like to confine himself to one approach as he feels that it can limit an artist and hinder their talent. As W Studio rose to prominence in Dubai, Hikmat found himself experimenting with media to meet a more diverse range of clients. Shifting his focus changed the studio for the better. It evolved from a portrait studio to a full-fledged production company catering to all kinds of clients spanning advertising to hospitality, delivering digital and social media content.

“If you are truly artistic, the medium doesn’t matter,” explains Hikmat. “You will see the potential and deliver on it. That is what an artist does. A true artist is never limited by medium. They only work harder when presented with something new.” With over twenty years of experience, Hikmat is now a trusted production artist for brands like Chanel, L’Oreal, Dior, Carolina Herrera, and many others.

To Hikmat medium is all about utilizing the various tools artists have at their disposal, and exceptional artists know that their work relies on using all these tools fearlessly and appropriately. “With the rise of digital media, there is so much pressure on artists to push the envelope, but I welcome it as a challenge to push my abilities,” says Hikmat. With the ever-changing media landscape, Hikmat Wehbi is undoubtedly leading the charge for all artists to embrace it.

Lifestyle

Crafting a Greener Glow: Alternative Therapies’ Sustainable Skincare Revolution

Published

1 week ago

December 25, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo Credit: Alternative Therapies

Byline: Avery Lim

Photo Credit: Alternative Therapies

Sustainability is an ongoing theme in a world that finally answers the environment’s call to action. From toning down single-use plastics to making subtle yet powerful lifestyle changes, modern society means business when it comes to the green revolution.

The skincare industry, in particular, is pitching in by resorting to clean beauty. From Greece to the Netherlands, Amalia Pavlidou stumbled upon a revelation. As she browsed rows of natural products, the idea for Alternative Therapies began to take shape—a skincare line rooted in nature, yet forward-thinking in science.

The Evolution of a Conscious Skincare Movement

As consumers demand more transparency in their beauty routines, the natural and vegan skincare market is booming. Alternative Therapies finds itself at the heart of this eco-conscious shift.

“When we started, it was not just about creating products—it was about driving a movement that would help put the world on track toward healing,” says Amalia Pavlidou. “I wanted to prove that luxury and sustainability can coexist without canceling each other out.”

This philosophy shines through in every detail, from the company’s recyclable glass packaging to its commitment to avoiding harmful chemicals like parabens and sulfates. One of the flagship products, the vitamin C serum, is a true reflection of this concept, blending 2% natural Vitamin C, ferulic acid, and sea-buckthorn to deliver both radiant skin and a clean conscience.

Alternative Therapies, once a small player, has utilized this trend, entering the competitive U.S. market this year. “There is a deep-rooted connection between nature and self-care in Greek culture,” explains Pavlidou. “We are bringing that tradition to the global stage, blending it with progressive science.”

The Rise of Eco-Beauty

Amalia Pavlidou’s plan for progress in the industry—one where luxury does not compromise ethics—has attracted a growing community of supporters. As Alternative Therapies expands its presence in the U.S., it remains grounded in its mission to redefine beauty standards.

“When I started this, I was hoping to do more than simply build a business—I wanted to build a legacy,” reflects Pavlidou. “Apart from looking good, beauty should be about feeling good and doing good.”

Now the question is not whether the beauty industry will embrace sustainability—it is how quickly it can catch up with pioneers like Alternative Therapies taking the reins. With its commitment to changing the world with mild ingredients, the brand is crafting a greener glow, lighting the way for a more conscious industry. To that effect, it is evident that luxury and beauty can be synonymous.