The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO), in collaboration with Markhiya Gallery and Fire Station, is set to present a special concert tomorrow (April 24) at the Qatar National Library, honouring the significant contributions of women to the arts both in Qatar and internationally.
In a press statement, QPO noted that the event, themed “Philharmonic at the Library: A Celebration of Women’s Creativity Worldwide”, promises a unique blend of artistic discussion and musical performance, highlighting the inspirations, challenges, and empowering messages of women in the arts.
The concert will feature distinguished artists renowned in their respective fields, who will share insights into their creative journeys. These artists include Hind al-Obaidli, a contemporary Qatari artist known for her captivating depictions of the human body in water, and Lina Alaali, a prominent Qatari artist who explores her nation’s cultural heritage through a contemporary lens.
Al-Obaidli’s architectural background from Oxford Brookes University infuses her art with precision, blurring the lines between tangible and abstract spaces as she explores the human form. Alaali, a graduate of Qatar University with a Bachelor of Arts in Artistic Education, masterfully blends traditional and modern elements in her artwork, which has been exhibited throughout the Gulf region and beyond. Both artists will discuss their experiences and inspirations as women navigating the art world.
The event will also feature Charlene Kasdorf, a visual literacy educator and artist dedicated to building creative confidence, and Fatima Tarig Jawed, a Pakistani ceramic sculptor who transforms discarded automobile parts into striking metal-like sculptures, reflecting emotional journeys of transformation.
Adding a musical dimension to the celebration, female musicians from QPO will perform chamber music composed by women from diverse centuries and regions. The featured musicians include Jihoon Shin (flute), Ines Wein (viola), Julie Sgarro (harp), and Anna Dietrich (vocals).