Contemporary transdisciplinary artist Ahmed al-Jufairi has opened his exhibition titled 'Movable Feast' at the Fire Station on Sunday, marking the end of his Artist in Residence programme in Paris. The artist brings to Doha dozens of his Paris-inspired art works, which expresses a contemporary take on Parisian landmarks, as well as the multinational feel of the city and its art scene.
"The title of this exhibition was in reference to Ernest Hemingway's novel, which talks about his childhood days while in Paris," said al-Jufairi in his speech. He cited his fascination with the atmosphere and art scene in Paris saying "this is where I belong (as an artist)."Al-Jufairi successfully completed a residency programme at the renowned Cite Internationale des Arts, Paris – one of the world’s most prestigious art residencies. The Paris art residency, held under the patronage of Qatar Museums chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, is an extension of Fire Station: Artist in Residence programme in Doha and takes one talented Qatari creative to Paris for a three-month experience.
“Al-Jufairi has always used art as a commentary of pressing social issues. His creativity coupled with his intense belief in notions of hope, beauty and resilience, allow him to create works that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds and beliefs," Fire Station director Khalifa al-Obaidly said. "We are incredibly proud of the growth that he has achieved during his time in Paris and are looking forward to watching how he uses these learnings in the future," he added.
The artist graduated at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar with a major in painting and printmaking and with a minor in art history.
He fuses inspirations that range from Van Gogh, Picasso, Marc Chagall and Andy Warhol with contemporary pop culture and local references.
Following the success of its Paris Residency programme, QM has recently launched Studio 209 NY, allowing Qatari artists to apply for a three-month residency at the prestigious International Studio and Curatorial Programme in New York, US.
Through its international partnerships, QM is creating the conditions for the cultivation of new talent and creativity, inspiring the next generation of cultural producers. Qatari artists are welcome to apply to this residency through the Open Calls page on the Fire Station website www.firestation.org.qa.
