Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar al-Baker delivered a keynote speech at the International New York Times “Art for Tomorrow” conference, held in Doha for the first time, and addressed more than 150 international guests.
The conference was held under the patronage of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, chairperson of Qatar Museums, and the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage.
The event explored the changing dynamics of art and architecture and their potential to change people and places. Bringing together guests from the arts, public and private sectors, the conference enabled those present to explore the links between art as a connector in society, with links to tourism, city planning and business development.
Al-Baker highlighted the airline’s role as a connector of people and the growing phenomenon of art tourism, also detailing the crucial role the group’s cargo business plays in transporting artwork around the world.
He said, “Art is renowned and appreciated around the world as an inspiring pillar of society, connecting people to places in their universal appreciation of cultural experiences.
“Qatar is now recognised around the globe as a cultural hub and diverse location for the appreciation of art, not only from the world-class museums in our own country, but for the collaboration on major exhibitions brought to Qatar for display. We are proud as the national airline of Qatar to be specialists in transporting such fragile and renowned pieces around the world.”
Al-Baker speaking at the conference in Doha.
