Young Qatari painter Abdulla al-Kuwari has been selected to complete a three-month residency programme at the renowned Cité internationale des Arts, Paris, one of the biggest and most important art residencies in the world, Qatar Museums’ (QM) Fire Station has announced.

Held under the patronage of QM chairperson, HE Sheikha al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, the Paris Residency is an extension of the Fire Station: Artist in Residence programme in Doha.

The programme provides one artist with an opportunity to live and study in Paris with access to studio space, museums, galleries and numerous opportunities to network with peers and other artists from around the world.

Al-Kuwari’s work explores spaces of ambiguity and fantasy, shifting between the real and the imagined. He is mainly inspired by nature, memories and pop culture.

He received his BFA in Painting and Printmaking in 2014 from Virginia Commonwealth University, graduating with the Highest Honours. He took part in exhibitions and art events in the Middle East, including Middle East Film and Comic Con and Exhibitor 2016.

“I am always eager to award this incredible opportunity to a talented and deserving artist for a chance to push boundaries and be inspired by a city that has bred countless talent over millennia,” Fire Station director Khalifa al-Obaidly said in a statement.

“His colourful depictions of dreamlike scenes that are at once playful and thought-provoking are impressive and I look forward to the body of work he will produce as part of the Paris residency,” he added.

Al-Kuwari is the third Qatari artist who will have the opportunity to develop his skills and artistic talent in Paris.

Two spectacular showings from Ebtisam al-Saffar and Nasser al-Attiya recently hosted an open studio at the Cité internationale des Arts in late September to feature their work.

Later this month, the Fire Station will also host an open studio and talk to celebrate al-Attiya’s work and accomplishments.

Members of the public will be invited to meet him, exchange cultural and artistic views and learn about his experience and latest projects.

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