The year of 2018 is being celebrated as Qatar-Russia Year of Culture. The cultural year aims to strengthen relations between the State of Qatar and the Russian Federation and to celebrate the vibrant landscape of both nations and their people.
The Qatar Russia 2018 Year of Culture is part of the landmark ‘Years of Culture’ initiative launched by Qatar Museums in 2012, to promote mutual understanding between the countries through a variety of exhibitions, festivals, competitions and events.
The Qatar-Russia Year was officially inaugurated in February. Since then, there have been manifold activities taking place both in Qatar and Russia, highlighting the cultural heritage and traditions of the two countries.
Recently a photo exhibition ‘Qatar’s History vs Future’ featuring the works of Maria Ovsyannikova, Russian expatriate and fine art photographer, was showcased at an event, held at City Centre Rotana Doha. Every inch of details of her photography caterwauled the enriching details of Qatar’s history and its transition into the modern era.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Marin Kendall, General Manager of City Centre Rotana Doha. “Our hotel has been hosting such unique art exhibitions where people of Qatar can experience different cultures. Through this exhibition, we have taken Qatar-Russia relationship one step ahead. The photos by Maria exhibit the journey of Doha over the years, from its traditional history to the future of modernity,” said Marin.
Community recently caught up with the photographer to talk about her work and life in Doha.
Tell us about yourself.
I am from Moscow, Russia. I have been living in Qatar for the previous six years now. I work as a full time photographer and artist with specialisation in architectural landscape, product and food photography. Besides this, I have a passion for local art and heritage.
I am completely self-taught. I am working as photographer for the past three years and parallel to it I have been enjoying creating Qatar-related artworks.
How was your experience of showcasing your work at City Centre Rotana Doha? What sort of pieces were featured in the exhibition?
The experience with City Center Rotana was really great. We created a concept to show architectural contrasts between old and new buildings in Qatar. Half of the images represented beautiful heritage sites, villages and mosques and another half was about ultramodern towers and skylines.
I felt honoured to have had the opportunity to show my work to art lovers here in Doha. It would not have been possible without the support of the hotel management and making it a big success. Through this exhibition, I have attempted to highlight the rich history of Qatar and the picturesque future ahead.
Have you taken part in other activities as part of Qatar-Russia Year celebrations?
Yes, I have. I have been participating in many activities related to Qatar-Russia Year of Culture. Besides this, I have done several solo and group art exhibitions in Doha as well. The most recent one was dedicated to Qatari flag as ‘Symbol of Unity’.
In September, I had a solo exhibition in Katara which lasted for a month and on October 26, my photos will be displayed at Russian Festival in Sheikh Faisal Museum. I created a series of images especially for this event.
In November, I will be travelling to Russia, as my artworks will be part of a photography exhibition organised by Qatar Museums in Saint Petersburg.
What are your views about life in general in Qatar?
I’ve cherished my six-year-long stay here in Doha. I consider it as my second home as only here I have found my true passion for fine art photography. Life is very peaceful and secure here. I have got a peace of mind and time for my creative work.
What are your future plans?
I want to explore the hidden natural and traditional beauty of the country. My future plans are to keep creating images of Qatar whilst highlighting and promoting its culture on the road to 2020.
Forte: Maria Ovsyannikova, Russian expatriate and fine art photographer, specialises in architectural landscape, product and food photography.
