Internationally acclaimed Qatari artist Ahmed al-Maadheed is set to showcase his latest collection from September 16 in a one-of-its-kind exhibition dubbed as ‘5/6’ – a date symbolising a turning point in the history of Qatar.
The month-long exhibition will feature more than 48 paintings, six distinct pieces of art and an interactive viewing section at W Doha Hotel & Residences’ Art 29.
It will be open to the public on September 17 and run until October 16.
“My collection at Art 29 now is a continuation of my original piece, ‘Tamim the Glorious’. I want to continue showcasing how our nation is growing and thriving – all through my eyes,” al-Maadheed told reporters at a press conference yesterday at W Doha Hotel.
The Qatari-born artist is often referred to as ‘the man who painted history’ for creating the iconic ‘Tamim Al Majd (Tamim the Glorious)’ – a portrait of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.
Al-Maadheed, who will be showcasing his artworks for the second time at Art 29, received local and international recognition for such work of art, which has become a symbol of Qatari resilience, strength and loyalty throughout the blockade.
Citing 5/6 as a personal exhibition close to his heart, he noted that its theme portrays how the blockade “transformed the country into an unprecedented progress nationally and internationally.”
The artist added that his upcoming show at Art 29 will display new and never-been-seen artworks before while some have only been presented in private exhibitions.
“I am a strong believer of simplicity but I also believe that passion and appreciation and taking one’s time emerges from their creations,” he stressed.
“Thankfully, I have the time to focus on what I love to do the most; and that is creating pieces that speak not only to me and what I have accomplished in life, but what I have accomplished for our beloved Qatar,” al-Maadheed said.
Divided into several distinct sections, he noted that the exhibition is expected to satisfy the visitor’s curiosity and passion for art.
The first section showcases art that describes the pride and glory of Qatar with a number of masterpieces which combine passion, commitment and creativity while the second section depicts al-Maadheed’s passion for sports.
The artist drew the six balls at the closing of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia to welcome viewers from around the globe to the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.
Meanwhile, 5/6 dedicates another section to miscellaneous artistic works that outlines culture, environment and human emotions.
“We are again proud to forge this partnership with al-Maadheed and we started a little bit more than a year,” W Doha Hotel general manager Wassim Daaje said. “The previous exhibition was successful and now we are repeating it in a unique way.”
“Al-Maadheed will surprise all of us with all the art pieces and works that he had done,” he added.
In support of the exhibition, an exclusive afternoon tea has been created in conjunction with al-Maadheed.
It is inspired by his artwork and will be offered at the W Café and Art 29 from 12.30pm to 7.30pm for a month.
Art 29 serves as a platform for up and coming local, regional and international artists to showcase their works and aspirations to the community.
Qatari artist Ahmed al-Maadheed (left) and W Doha’s Wassim Daaje speak to the media yesterday. PICTURE: Jayan Orma
