In celebration of Qatar National Day 2021, Sheraton Grand Doha will be hosting a special art exhibition, 'Al Naqhda; Elegance from the past' by Qatari artist Haifa al-Khuzai in collaboration with Katara Art Centre in the hotel lobby.
The exhibition opening today will run until December 30.
On show are a collection of al-Khuzai's new artworks using mixed mediums of ceramics and porcelain.
They are hand-made at her own studio, inspired by motifs and patterns of local fashion, in an attempt to integrate the heritage elements into the artworks in a modern style.
Al-Khuzai said: “Heritage is a symbol of the peoples' own identity, and a symbol of the knowledge reached by previous generations, which have been passed down through the times until our time.”
“I am attracted and inspired by the materials and tools that are used in our daily lives in my artworks, such as incense burners *mubhkar, sprinklers, windows, doors and many more,” she added.
Sheraton Grand Doha general manager Belal al-Kadry said: “Sheraton Doha is not simply just a hotel – it is a milestone in Qatar’s history and a popular landmark with its impressive style, opulent décor, and rich hospitality.”
“As a part of this nation’s rich history, we are always happy to be part of Qatar National Day celebrations,” he added.
Al-Khuzai, who graduated 1989 with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts Education from Qatar University, obtained a General Diploma in Fine Arts – France in 1984.
In addition to her membership in group of committees and organisations – including the Qatar Fine Arts Society and the Visual Arts Centre – she has been working as a teacher of art education with the Ministry of Education for more than 20 years.
Al-Khuzai has participated in local and international art exhibitions, the last of which was a collection of ceramic and porcelain works for Al Thumama Stadium in Qatar.
"I am attracted and inspired by the materials and tools that are used in our daily lives in my artworks, such as incense burners *mubhkar, sprinklers, windows, doors and many more,” she said.
Recently, the artist's focus has been more on Qatari women's clothing, jewellery and fabrics, as the embroidery and engraving details were the source of inspiration in her modern works.
This richness and diversity in the decorations and the colours of the fabrics inspired the artist and enriched her imagination in making models that have an extension of this beautiful heritage and presented them in a contemporary and innovative artistic style.