Riyadh: The King Abdulaziz Public Library hosted a photographic exhibition and cultural event in Riyadh today honoring late Brazilian photographer Humberto da Silveira, titled "Humberto da Silveira: The Third Eye of National Memory."

According to Saudi Press Agency, the event was attended by Special Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Brazilian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Paulo Uch´a Ribeiro Filho, and several dignitaries and those interested in antiquities, heritage, and culture.

The program included a short video presentation showcasing the work of the late photographer da Silveira and his journey documenting aspects of the Kingdom's regions, antiquities, and prominent tourist and historical landmarks.

King Abdulaziz Public Library General Supervisor Faisal bin Abdulrahman bin Muammar spoke about Da Silveira's relationship with the library and the resulting documentary and cultural projects and publications. Ibn Muammar reviewed Da Silveira's biography, noting that the Brazilian photographer came to the Kingdom and found in it a home. He spent a significant portion of his life there, producing prominent works in collaboration with the library.

The collaboration focused on documenting the Kingdom's most important archaeological and tourist sites, as well as Saudi history, architecture, historical villages, archaeological sites, Bedouin life, and natural landscapes. Da Silveira also documented aspects of urban and social development. The work resulted in several books, in addition to exhibitions and accompanying events organized by the library in 2017 to commemorate the visits of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to New York and Paris.

The Brazilian ambassador concluded the event with a brief speech praising Saudi Arabia and its rich culture and heritage, acknowledging Da Silveira's experience in capturing the Kingdom's most prominent landmarks.