Qatar Museums has completed its preparations for the reopening of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in the Fall of 2022, following its renovation and development to ensure an attractive environment for visitors from around the world during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Shaika al-Nassr, deputy director of Curatorial Affairs at MIA, said in exclusive statements for Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the museum project - in its new look - included developing its interior and outdoor areas to facilitate the flow of visitors and to serve the largest possible number of people. This was achieved by redesigning the entrance, retail stores and several other facilities with the aim of providing a distinctive experience.Al-Nassr noted that all the improvements made to the building were in line with the vision of the designer (the late I M Pei). These were implemented in co-operation with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), in co-ordination with French company Wilmotte & Associes Architects.
On the most prominent features of the museum's development, al-Nassr said a hall has been allocated for a 3D show that narrates the journey of building the Museum of Islamic Art and provides a historical documentation that allows visitors to visualise the museum building within the context of the urban development witnessed by modern Doha.
She pointed out that the permanent galleries have been developed in a way that provides a new and comprehensive path for visitors using an extensive, interpretive content that places the artworks within an understandable and purposeful context to explore the Islamic heritage. The museum is keen on using multimedia to present content, creating a cultural family-friendly environment that attracts parents and children alike.
Al-Nassr explained that the features of renovation and development included building completely new sections in the Museum of Islamic Art. She noted that a hall will be allocated to narrate the history of the Holy Qur'an, using multimedia, and its impact on the Islamic civilisation; and a hall to describe Islamic religious practices and the impacts of these practices, which include prayer and the Umrah pilgrimage, on the culture and arts produced by Muslim peoples.
She noted that the focus will be on the importance of science, learning and education in the Islamic world and linking these topics to the curricula, as well as introducing some regions of the Islamic world that are usually underrepresented in Islamic art exhibition halls in the world, such as Islamic art in Southeast Asia.
Regarding the museum's preparations to host visitors during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and the most important artifacts to be displayed during that period, the official revealed that the museum will showcase artifacts that haven't been displayed before, amounting to around 70% of the items. Among these artifacts will be a page of the Blue Qur'an from Spain or North Africa, dating back to the Umayyad Andalusian period (3rd century AH, 9th century CE) and written in golden ink.
She explained in this context that this page, written in golden letters in the Kufic script on parchment dyed in indigo, is part of a unique Qur'an manuscript. she added that a 'Kiswah' (which is hung at the door of the Holy Kaaba) dating back to the Ottoman era will also be displayed.
On the other hand, al-Nasr noted that the museum's development strategy also focused on the issue of making it suitable for families, explaining that 12 interactive stations have been allocated in the museum halls where children will be able to learn about various topics related to Islamic civilisation and art, such as astronomy, coins, Islamic decorations, Andalusian gardens, jewellery and gemstone.
In this context, she mentioned that ID cards were provided for the museum's displayed artefacts written in a beautiful and clear style. These ID cards allow young adults to easily read and understand their content, which encourages dialogue between family members, in addition to providing content that tells the visitor the story of Islamic culture in a scientific and attractive manner.
In terms of programmes and activities accompanying the opening of the museum in its new form, the official said an activity hall has been allocated for families and young adults on the fourth floor and several programmes will be launched, such as 'Behind the Scenes of the Museum', which targets youths interested in the field of arts and museums.
In this context, al-Nasr explained that the 'Junior Museum Curator' programme will be launched. The programme depends on the efforts of youths who will supervise the establishment of their own exhibition by following practical steps, and the public will be able to view their exhibition.
She indicated that the 'Youth Gathering at the Museum of Islamic Art' programme, which is an unofficial gathering, will be held on Saturdays wherein youths can establish their own creative programmes with the support and guidance of the museum's staff.
MIA holds the best collections of Islamic art from around the world, centuries-old masterpieces and wonders from three continents and reflect the diversity and richness of Islamic heritage. (QNA)
