A group of 29 Qatar-based artists from the group International Artists of Doha (IAD) had the opportunity to discover and explore the artworks displayed at the Hamad International Airport’s (HIA) airside and landside recently. HIA, in co-operation with Qatar Museums (QM), toured IAD members to its more than 20 stunning art pieces created by local and international artists, hand-picked to be displayed at the airport.
The HIA art programme seeks to turn the airport into an innovative public space for creativity beyond the walls of a gallery or museum to entertain and inspire, as well as reduce stress level, of millions of people flying through the airport annually.
The artists’ tour began with a viewing of ‘The Flying Man’, two iconic sculptures designed by renowned Iraqi artist Dia al-Azzawi and installed at HIA’s passenger terminal for travellers to see.
The 15m high dual sculptures are based on the story of Abu Firnas, a historical figure from the Islamic world who was an early pioneer in flight experiments. “This tour stirred the highest attention from all members of the IDA group. Art installations displayed at HIA are representative of the airport’s cultural intersection between local roots and global reach, transcending all cultures and beliefs,” said Austrian ambassador Willy Kempel, who is also the IAD president.
He thanked HIA and QM for their hospitality and joined efforts in making the airport a unique location for arts and culture. “HIA is an airport for art lovers and art curious. We are delighted by the visit of the International Artists of Doha. We believe that art and creativity must be enjoyed beyond the confines of a gallery and are proud to turn HIA into an innovative public space,” HIA’s Commercial and Marketing vice president Abdulaziz al-Mass said.
The artists also had the chance to see the newest art piece at the airport dubbed as ‘Small Lie’ by American pop artist Brian Donnelly, known as Kaws. The iconic piece was unveiled on March 7 in a ceremony attended by senior officials of HIA, QM and local art enthusiasts.
Members of International Artists of Doha standing by the Desert Horse Art Piece at HIA.
