QC Talks will bring together Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums; and Anne-Claire Legendre, president of the Institut du monde arabe in Paris, for a public conversation titled “Culture as Diplomat: How Cultural Institutions Shape International Relationships.” The talk will take place on September 24 at 11am at the Museum of Islamic Art Auditorium.
The conversation brings together HE Sheikha Al Mayassa’s experience in cultural leadership and international exchange with Legendre’s diplomatic career and leadership of the Institut du monde arabe. It will explore how museums, exhibitions and artistic partnerships deepen understanding between communities and build relationships that endure beyond individual cultural events.
Moderated by Dr Safwan Masri, academic leader, scholar and author, the talk is presented in collaboration with Qatar Creates, the Institut du monde arabe and the Embassy of France in Qatar.
The discussion will consider how institutional partnerships and exchange programmes bring people with different histories and experiences into conversation, and how art can create opportunities for dialogue and trust, complementing diplomacy and strengthening connections between people.
Legendre has led the Institut du monde arabe since February 2026 and is the first woman to hold the position. Her previous roles include ambassador of France to Kuwait, North Africa and Middle East Adviser to the French President, spokesperson for the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and Consul General of France in New York.
Speaking ahead of the event, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa said: “Culture, and the dialogue it inspires, reconnect us with our shared humanity and with what gives life its true meaning.
Through the art and stories of different peoples, we come closer to their experiences, discovering what we share while learning to appreciate what makes each of us distinct. In Qatar, we believe culture is fundamental to quality of life: it enriches our everyday experiences and creates space for reflection, belonging and connection with others.
“I look forward to discussing how our cultural institutions can make these experiences accessible to more people and build relationships that grow through exchange, knowledge and understanding.”
Legendre said: “Culture and diplomacy share a common purpose: creating the conditions for dialogue and mutual understanding. Cultural institutions, such as IMA in Paris, can introduce societies to one another through artists, ideas, histories and experiences, creating connections that may develop well beyond a single exhibition or exchange. I look forward to speaking about how institutions in Qatar, France and across the Arab world can continue opening new channels for conversation and cooperation.”
The event forms part of Qatar Creates’ Fall/Winter 2026/2027 season. QC Talks brings cultural leaders, artists, thinkers and the public together to discuss culture and its place in society, encouraging the exchange of ideas and experience across disciplines and generations.
The talk is open to the public. To register, visit this link. For more information on Qatar Creates, visit qacreates.com
