The Qatar National Library (QNL) has launched a first-of-its-kind exhibition featuring emerging artists, titled “Heritage in Art: Reflections by Qatari Artists”, under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of State and QNL President Dr Hamad bin Abdel Aziz al-Kawari.
The exhibition – open to the public until the end of April 2026 – celebrates the intersection of culture, creativity, and heritage, showcasing how Qatar’s artistic community continues to draw inspiration from the nation’s history.
Through the lens of contemporary creativity, the exhibition highlights how treasures from the QNL’s Heritage Library, its rare maps, illustrations, photographs, and manuscripts, can inspire new artistic expressions that connect history with modern perspectives.
The participating artists explore themes of place, identity, and continuity, transforming historical references into innovative works that invite audiences to experience Qatar’s heritage in fresh and engaging ways.
“This exhibition reflects the QNL’s commitment to making heritage a living part of contemporary dialogue,” said QND executive director Tan Huism. “By bringing together historical sources and modern creativity, ‘Heritage in Art’ showcases how Qatari artists can engage with the past to inspire new conversations within society.”
“By opening our collections for artists to explore, we are enabling new forms of creativity grounded in authentic historical items,” said Aysha Hassan al-Ansari, the head of Heritage Collections at QNL.
“This exhibition demonstrates how meaningful access to original materials can enrich artistic expression” she said. “When artists engage directly with these resources, they uncover details, stories, and visual elements that spark new perspectives.”
“‘Heritage in Art: Reflections by Qatari Artists’ is a reminder that our cultural heritage is a living memory, one that continues to inspire dialogue and cultural connection,” al-Ansari added.
Participating artists are Abdullah al-Mutawah, Muna al-Bader, Muneera al-Obaidli, Sharefa al-Mannai, Jaber Henzab, Mubarak Nasser al-Thani, and Zainab al-Shibani, each presenting a distinctive interpretation that connects the Library’s collections with today’s creative landscape.
“Heritage in Art: Reflections by Qatari Artists” marks the beginning of an annual exhibition series that will continue to celebrate the creative dialogue between Qatar’s heritage and its artistic community.
Qatari artists interested in participating in future editions will be able to apply through an open call announced on the QNL’s website.
Submissions will be reviewed by a selection committee comprising experts in art, culture, and heritage.
