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The final phase of Qatar’s 25-year cultural plan features ambitious global projects designed to strengthen the nation’s position as a hub for art and innovation, according to Qatar Museums (QM) Chairperson Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani.“Over the next decade, we will be introducing one project after another to continue to build a knowledge-based economy and support the growth of the creative economy,” she said in her keynote address marking the Qatar Creates anniversary season at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ).The keynote was delivered against a backdrop of institutional milestones, including the 50th anniversary of the NMoQ, the 20th anniversary of the QM, and the 15th anniversaries of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art and the Doha Film Institute (DFI).HE Sheikha Al Mayassa said that the plan involves three major institutions, which will further globalise the country’s cultural impact: the Qatar Auto Museum, the Lusail Museum, and the Art Mill Museum.These projects, she said, “hold two of the world’s most extensive and diverse collections”.The QM chairperson said that these museums will be amplified by the upcoming Art Basel Qatar, scheduled for February 2026, which signifies a major push into the international art market.HE Sheikha Al Mayassa said the Lusail Museum, designed by Swiss architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron and situated on Al Maha Island, will house the extensive collection of Orientalist art.Beyond a repository, it is envisioned as an institute where international scholars and artists convene to explore East-West connections.On Doha’s waterfront, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa said that architect Alejandro Aravena and his firm Elemental are transforming an industrial flour mill into the Art Mill Museum.This project, she pointed out, is planned to be “more than a museum”, serving as a vibrant creative village for art, craft, and design, facilitating connections between local and international creative communities.“Over the past two decades, we have been able to invest in both our hardware and software,” HE Sheikha Al Mayassa continued. “The hardware being the buildings, such as the one hosting us now, and the software being the talented people who bring our dreams to life.”She stressed that the future focus must be on cultivating this “software”, the creatives and innovators within the ecosystem, to build the knowledge economy.The core mission of the new strategy, she added, remains supporting local talent and growing the creative economy, extending the reach of existing platforms like the DFI, the Fire Station, and M7.“Culture is no longer a separate sphere, it is inseparable from our social, economic and environmental development,” said HE Sheikha Al Mayassa, who led the celebration of recent activities highlighting Qatari creatives. “It is the heart of our nation uniting our diverse communities.”These include the Liwan Open Studios and the inauguration of the Fashion Trust Arabia exhibition, “Threads of Impact”, which brought more than 80 designers to Doha.She noted that even the children’s focus is rooted in creativity and community health, pointing to the Dadu Children’s Museum of Qatar and the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sport Museum.According to HE Sheikha Al Mayassa, the Children’s Museum will work with artists from the Fire Station, reinforcing the strategy of “globalising the local and localising the global”.She also underlined the nation’s cultural achievements under the banner of a new 18-month campaign, “Evolution Nation”, marking 50 years since the founding of the NMoQ.

Qatar Museums (QM) inaugurated Sunday the first Arab Youth Forum, in co-operation with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation (ALECSO).The three-day event brings together officials, experts, and young participants from 22 Arab countries.The forum is aimed at empowering young people and university students in the Arab world to engage in heritage preservation, promote cultural sustainability, and help shape future strategies for safeguarding Arab heritage.It will conclude with the launch of the Doha Youth Declaration 2025, reflecting the aspirations of a new generation of Arab researchers and calling for stronger cooperation among cultural and academic institutions.Qatar Museums chief executive Mohammed Saad al-Rumaihi said the forum marks a strategic step toward raising awareness of sustainable cultural heritage protection.He added that workshops and discussions will enable youth to exchange experiences and develop innovative solutions to current and future challenges.Al-Rumaihi noted that the forum coincides with the QM’s 20th anniversary and its Nation of Culture campaign, reaffirming its commitment to building a vibrant cultural landscape in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.He added the event would stimulate innovation and creativity among young people, enabling them to become ambassadors for their cultures and work to develop effective strategies for preserving cultural heritage, which is an integral part of our Arab identity.ALECSO director-general D. Mohamed Ould Amar highlighted that hosting the forum in Qatar helps establish a lasting tradition of youth engagement in research and innovation across the Arab world.He stressed the importance of confronting the risks facing cultural heritage – from natural disasters to human activities and neglect – and the need for young people to play a central role in protecting it.The forum follows last year's ALECSO-organised first forum for young researchers in cultural heritage in the Arab world, with the participation of 17 Arab countries.Head of International Relations at the QM’s International Co-operation Department, Dr Rashid Ali Malheya, said that the first Arab Youth Forum was launched by the QM, in collaboration with ALECSO, as a youth-centric platform, serving as their voice and reflecting their perspectives through interactive workshops and panel discussions on heritage preservation, the latest experiences, and direct engagement with specialists.The forum, he noted, provides a showcase for youth-led projects, initiatives, and research, reflecting the QM's success in mobilising Arab youth from 22 countries for the first time.Dr Malheya added that there is a strong commitment to sustaining this initiative, with the forum planned across successive editions.A key outcome is youth participation in drafting the Doha Youth Declaration 2025, which charts a roadmap for their vital role in heritage management, positioning it as a development cornerstone.Dr Malheya further highlighted that the 27th Conference on Archaeology and Cultural Heritage in the Arab World, scheduled for tomorrow, will dedicate a session to youth initiatives and experiences, ensuring heritage sustainability.On the first day of the forum, two sessions were held.The first focused on protection and management of cultural heritage in the Arab world, highlighting the significance of heritage, reviewing archaeological work from the 1950s to the present, discussing Qatari sites’ inclusion in the Arab heritage registry, and exploring Unesco’s role in safeguarding heritage.The second session focused on development and drafting of the Youth Forum Declaration – Doha 2025, moderated by Dr Fatema Hassan al-Sulaiti, the director of International Co-operation and Government Affairs at the QM.Speakers discussed heritage in conflict, referencing attempts to erase Syria's living heritage, environmental misinformation in heritage promotion, historical trade relations between Khorfakkan and the kingdom of Hormuz (1272-1290 CE), and the Great Fort architecture in Al Raida, Yemen.The forum "Empowering Arab Youth for Sustainable Heritage" meanwhile convenes on the margins of the 27th conference under the theme *Sustainability of Cultural Heritage: Challenges and Future Strategies.The three-day event will be organised by the QM in collaboration with ALECSO tomorrow, with participation from regional and international partners.The conference is part of broader efforts to strengthen Arab co-operation in heritage preservation and to identify innovative solutions to the challenges facing this vital sector, reflecting Qatar's deep commitment to safeguarding human heritage as a pillar of national and Arab identity.It aims to spotlight the significance of heritage sustainability amidst environmental, technological, and social transformations, while developing future strategies based on scientific approaches and innovative practices, and enhancing heritage as a source of inspiration, knowledge, and a driver of sustainable development.The conference focuses on key objectives, including addressing environmental, climatic, and human challenges affecting archaeological and heritage sites, contributing to long-term strategic visions for heritage sustainability, supporting Arab co-operation in heritage safeguarding and knowledge exchange, and ensuring cultural heritage remains a marker of identity and history, serving as a source of inspiration and creativity for current and future generations.

HE the Chairperson of Qatar Museums, Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad al-Thani, inaugurated Sunday three distinguished art exhibitions at the Qatar's epicentre for innovation and entrepreneurship in design, fashion and tech (M7). The distinguished art exhibitions include "Fashion Trust Arabia: Threads of Impact," which celebrates the 7th anniversary of the Fashion Trust Arabia initiative; "Houbara Haven tiara" by Chaumet, featuring Qatari designer Aisha al-Attiyah; and "Amazigh Hair Couture," curated by Moroccan artists Lalla Essaydi and Amina Agueznay, under the creative direction of Ilham Mastour. In her remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Maha al-Sulaiti said that the "Fashion Trust Arabia: Threads of Impact" exhibition includes the works of more than 90 designers supported by the Fashion Trust Arabia initiative, including Fashion Trust Arabia Award winners, finalists, and designers from Qatar. She added that fashion tells stories, connects cultures, and sparks creativity. As a leading centre for innovation in fashion and design, M7 is committed to accelerating the growth of the creative economy, and Fashion Trust Arabia plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem. Together, M7 and Fashion Trust Arabia continue to drive impactful transformations in this sector." Al-Sulaiti indicated that M7, in partnership with Chaumet, launched the "Chaumet Tiara Project" in 2024, in light of the momentum generated by the "Chaumet and Nature" exhibition held at M7 in Doha, which celebrated the jewellery designed by the house inspired by nature as part of the legacy of the "Qatar-France 2020" Year of Culture. She pointed out that the "Houbara Haven tiara" exhibition by Chaumet, by Qatari designer Aisha al-Attiyah, chronicles the tiara's journey from dream to reality. It was the winning design from among 80 participants who submitted entries to the competition launched by M7. The exhibition offers visitors behind-the-scenes insights into the collaboration between designer Al-Attiyah and Chaumet. Through sketches, photographs, and archival documents, it reveals how al-Attiyah was able to embody her unique vision and touch in a dialogue that pulsates with the rich heritage of the luxury jewellery house. Al-Attiyah told QNA that creating the tiara took her 740 hours and required precise and dedicated work in the Chaumet luxury jewellery workshop, with a group of craftsmen contributing to the crafting, setting, polishing, and engraving. She added that she is extremely happy to be the winning designer of the Chaumet Tiara project. She said that this event is a turning point in her journey as an emerging jewellery designer. It is a great honor to benefit from the support of M7 during this experience, as she benefits from the knowledge of the designers, craftsmen, and skilled artisans at the Maison Chaumet, who brought her design to life with their valuable expertise. She expressed her pride to share Qatar's rich history with the world through this masterpiece. The exhibition's design takes visitors on a journey inspired by the falcon's hunting patterns, exploring spaces that evoke its search path and the Houbara's haven. Ultimately, the tiara is revealed amidst jewels colored in shades of green, symbolising the "Awsaj" bush. Director of M7, Maha al-Sulaiti said that the 'Amazigh Hair Couture' exhibition celebrates the artistry, heritage, and cultural symbolism of Amazigh hair traditions, specifically from Morocco. She deemed the exhibition, "A powerful celebration of identity and artistic expression, reflecting M7's mission to elevate diverse voices and connect regional talents with global audiences. "We are proud to continue our partnership with Ilham Mestour and provide a platform for Arab and North African designers and artists such as Lalla Essaydi and Amina Agueznay to continue to champion and reclaim authorship over their narratives, sharing traditions in ways that are both contemporary and rooted in culture." In turn, Hair Artist and the Exhibition's Creative Director, Ilham Mestour said that 'Amazigh Hair Couture' is organised across four thematic zones, these are: Roots and Rituals, Body and Soul, Reframing the Gaze, and Crafting Continuity, adding that it explores how hair serves as a vital carrier of memory, beauty, resistance, and identity within matrilineal Amazigh cultures. Mestour pointed out that the exhibition draws from a history stretching back thousands of years and that the works on view span archival material and contemporary practice, highlighing the resilience and creativity embedded in these rituals, and affirming hair as a medium of care, representation, and intergenerational legacy. "Through this exhibition, I honour my Amazigh ancestry by transforming inherited rituals into my work globally, carrying forward the voices of the past," Mestour said, adding, "My collaboration with M7, from teaching in the Mastering Hair masterclass to presenting my work in this exhibition, enables me to continue to share these traditions and ensure they remain alive for future generations of creatives." The exhibition is curated by Rajae El Mouhandiz, an interdisciplinary artist and curator based in Rotterdam, and brings together fine art photography, scent, hair installations, textile works, and ethnographic archival material. "Amazigh Hair Couture" is organised as a legacy of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, which was one of the initiative's most beloved celebrations, with a strong legacy of ongoing partnerships across heritage, creative economies, social and economic development and innovation. The M7 exhibition programme is part of Qatar Museums' 20th anniversary programming which is being celebrated under the banner of Evolution Nation, an 18-month campaign to honour the nation's cultural journey over the past 50 years. It is also part of the Qatar Creates Fall/Winter 2025 season. (QNA)

Qatar Museums (QM), in collaboration with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation (ALECSO), will host the 27th edition of the Conference on Archaeology and Cultural Heritage in the Arab World.Under the theme "Sustainability of Cultural Heritage: Challenges and Future Strategies," the three-day event will begin next Tuesday.This year's edition will also witness the launch of the first Arab Youth Forum for Sustainable Heritage, the first of its kind in the region.The forum aims to empower young researchers and university students in the fields of archaeology and the protection of Arab cultural heritage.The event will be attended by a distinguished group of dignitaries, including HE Minister of Education and Higher Education Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater (MOEHE); officials from Qatar Museums; and HE Director-General of ALECSO Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar.On this occasion, CEO of Qatar Museums Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi stated that hosting this important conference as QM celebrates its 20th anniversary reaffirms Qatar's unwavering commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting knowledge exchange across the Arab world. Through dialogue, innovation, and the sharing of expertise, they aim to foster regional cooperation and ensure the sustainability of the shared heritage for future generations.Qatar will assume the presidency of the conference, succeeding the Kingdom of Morocco, which hosted the previous edition. This transition reflects Qatar's growing leadership in supporting regional cooperation and advancing sustainable practices in heritage preservation across the Arab world.QM's Director of International Co-operation and Government Affairs Dr. Fatma Al Sulaiti stressed that the ALECSO Conference presents a valuable opportunity to forge partnerships and develop practical strategies for sustainable heritage management.She expressed Qatar Museums' interest in collaborating with ALECSO to enhance this dialogue, which embodies their shared vision of protecting cultural heritage as a pillar of creativity, knowledge, and sustainable development.The Conference on Archaeology and Cultural Heritage in the Arab World serves as a key platform for scientific dialogue, policy exchange, and strategic planning in sustainable heritage management.It brings together policymakers, experts, and academics to address common challenges and strengthen regional cooperation in this field.Director-General of ALECSO Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar commented that ALECSO continues its civilisational mission to preserve cultural heritage in Arab countries with professionalism, dedicating all its resources to achieving this noble goal.He noted that the 27th edition of the conference comes in a renewed and modern format that aligns with global developments in the field, through cooperation and co-ordination with Qatar, represented by Qatar Museums, a key partner in the success of this edition.He added that the simultaneous convening of the conference and the Arab Youth Forum underscores the commitment of both Qatar Museums and ALECSO to protecting cultural heritage as a foundation for creativity, knowledge, and sustainable development.

Qatar Museums (QM) Chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani unveiled the major retrospective “A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told” on Thursday, marking the official kickoff of the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ)’s 50th-anniversary celebrations across Doha. The celebration featured the recognition of major donors, the prestigious Anniversary Awards Dinner, themed *Recognising Evolution – A Journey from Tradition to Tomorrow, and the “Taste Evolution: Collaboration Dinner”, presented by Qatar Creates. **media[373167]** The opening was attended by QM chief executive Mohammed Saad al-Rumaihi and NMoQ director Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Thani, among other dignitaries and guests. “A Nation’s Legacy” chronicles the NMoQ’s journey, from its establishment in 1975 as the region’s first national museum to its reinvention in 2019 as a cutting-edge experiential institution housed within an iconic building designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. **media[373173]** According to the QM, the NMoQ’s 50th-anniversary festivities began on October 22 with a symbolic voyage of the historical dhow Fateh Al Khair. Bearing the museum’s logo, the dhow sailed along the Doha Corniche, serving as a visual narrative of continuity, resilience, and transformation. **media[373169]** The ceremony was enhanced by cultural maritime performances, featuring renowned Qatari singer Munsoor al-Muhannadi, highlighting the museum’s role as a vital bridge between past heritage and future generations. “For half a century, the NMoQ has safeguarded the legacy of our nation and our national treasures while continually developing new means of storytelling through the latest advances in technology,” Sheikh Abdulaziz said in a press statement. **media[373168]** “With ‘A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told’, we invite audiences to join us in celebrating the institution’s remarkable record of honouring our heritage while imagining what is to come.” NMoQ Research and Collections deputy director Dr Abdullah Mohammed al-Sulaiti told reporters during the press preview that extensive public programming will form part of the exhibition, aimed at nurturing creativity, learning, and cultural participation across all age groups. Key among these initiatives is “NMoQ Late: Our Heritage, By Young NMoQ”, which aims to empower teenagers by offering creative expression opportunities, after-hours access, and culturally relevant initiatives. This effort seeks to position the museum as a vital “third space”, a welcoming environment where youth can connect, collaborate, develop skills, and build a sense of ownership within the community. The QM added that the NMoQ’s learning and outreach programmes, such as workshops, educational activities, and immersive experiences, will further connect audiences with Qatar’s heritage. Specialised culinary initiatives like collaborations with Chef Noof, Desert Rose, and cooking classes at Jiwan will explore food as a living heritage, demonstrating how traditional practices are preserved, adapted, and celebrated today. These programmes will transform the exhibition from a historical survey into a vibrant, interactive journey celebrating Qatar’s past, present, and future. The QM noted that the anniversary celebrations included a special tribute dedicated to the significant donations that have enriched the QM’s collections and sustained the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage. These gifts were highlighted as a reflection of deep civic pride and the shared commitment of individuals, families, and institutions to safeguarding Qatar’s legacy. The celebrations also featured a live musical performance from Dana al-Meer and Hala al-Emadi, who reflected Qatar’s evolving national identity through a lively fusion of traditional Arabic and modern sounds. It concluded with “Taste Evolution: The Collaboration Dinner”, a culinary experience crafted by Chef Noof al-Marri and QC+’s Michelin-starred Chef Jeremy Cheminade, blending authentic Qatari flavours with contemporary techniques.

Qatar Museums (QM), in collaboration with the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) New Delhi, is set to present The Rooted Nomad: MF Husain, an immersive exhibition having recourse to works by Maqbool Fida Husain (1913–2011), one of India’s iconic artists. Following its inaugural presentation at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia in 2024, The Rooted Nomad: MF Husain will be on view from October 28 to February 7, 2026 at QM Gallery Katara. It will be presented as a fully immersive, multi-sensory experiential project tracing Husain’s itinerant spirit and artistic pursuits from his formative years in India to his last years spent in Doha as a citizen of Qatar.The title captures the dual essence of Husain’s life — his deep connections to his homeland and his nomadic, cosmopolitan spirit. Through the artist’s distinguished portfolio of works that weave together myth, memory, and modernity, the exhibition reflects Husain’s vision of India as both an ancient civilisation and a postcolonial nation.Drawing upon a reserve of mythologies, shared histories, literature and manifestations, Husain articulated his harmonised vision of a modern India through a lexicon of symbolic iconographies anchored in a secular artistic sensibility. The dynamic visual panorama is created from images of more than 80 of Husain’s representative works interlaced with textual material that includes his photographs, drawings, poems, cinema posters, and rarely seen archival material. Central to Husain’s artistic inquiry is a restless consciousness, shaped by a lifetime of movement and encounters that make us dwell upon ideas of mobility, migration, moving across borders and beyond geographical and cultural boundaries.In a press statement, Sheikha Reem al-Thani, acting deputy CEO of Exhibitions, Public Art, and Rubaiya Qatar and Director of Central Exhibitions at QM, said: “Husain’s vision—spanning continents, histories, and identities—reflects the spirit of exchange that defines Qatar’s cultural landscape today. This immersive exhibition offers audiences a renewed encounter with an artist whose work continues to inspire global conversations on belonging and creativity.”Conceived and curated by KNMA and visualised and designed by Visioni Srl, Rome, the immersive experience has been reimagined since its inaugural presentation in Venice to introduce new spatial and sensory experiences. The immersive attempts to unpack expanded notions of the idea of ‘yatra’ or journey, both as a crux to civilisational ethos and artistic calling as well as a metaphor for transformation.The complex production integrates motion graphics, live action, 2D and 3D animation, choreography, and sound design. It offers a deeply humanistic and unifying vision, seamlessly blending Husain’s versatile oeuvre to narrate the complex story of this singular figure while reminding audiences of shared narratives that connect people across geographies and generations.Roobina Karode, director and chief curator at KNMA, said: “The Rooted Nomad aims to bring to new audiences the creative journey of the artist with his striking composite quasi-abstract language melding calligraphy, idealised motifs from ancient Indian reliefs and folk traditions, pictorially representing varied themes including the Mahabharata, Karbala and The Last Supper with poetic brevity”.The exhibition is presented as part of Evolution Nation, an 18-month campaign honouring Qatar’s cultural journey over the past 50 years, since the founding of the National Museum of Qatar, and builds on the legacy of the Qatar–India 2019 Year of Culture.

Qatar Museums (QM), under the patronage of HE the Chairperson Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad al-Thani, and in collaboration with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation (ALECSO) and a number of regional and international partners, is preparing to organise the 27th Conference on Archaeology and Cultural Heritage in the Arab World, on October 28-30 in Doha, under the theme *Sustainability of Cultural Heritage: Challenges and Strategies for the Future.The QM announced on its Facebook account that the conference is being held as part of efforts to enhance Arab co-operation in the field of protecting and preserving cultural heritage and finding innovative solutions to the challenges facing this vital sector.The QM said that the conference is aimed at highlighting the importance of environmental, technological, and social sustainability of cultural heritage in light of global change, while working to develop future strategies based on scientific methods and innovative practices.It also seeks to enhance the status of heritage as a source of inspiration and knowledge, and a key driver of sustainable development.The conference focuses on key objectives, most notably: addressing environmental and human challenges affecting archaeological and heritage sites in the Arab world; contributing to the development of long-term visions and strategies that ensure the sustainability of cultural heritage; supporting Arab co-operation in the field of heritage preservation and the exchange of expertise between cultural institutions; and ensuring that cultural heritage remains a marker of identity and history, and a source of inspiration and creativity for current and future generations.The conference will address a wide range of vital issues, including concepts, mechanisms, and approaches to sustainability in cultural heritage; the natural, environmental, technological, and human challenges facing heritage sustainability; sustainability strategies and the development of effective approaches to heritage preservation; digital transformation and its role in preserving cultural heritage and transmitting it to future generations; the role of cultural tourism in enhancing the sustainability of heritage sites; and the experiences of Arab countries in protecting and sustaining cultural heritage.The concept of contemporary heritage as a bridge linking the past to the future will also be discussed.The conference will include a high-level opening session featuring representatives of the organisation's Arab member states, keynote addresses by ministers and prominent figures from the Arab world and international organisations, and papers from the organising committee and the Young Researchers Forum.On the sidelines of the conference, the QM will organise the Youth Forum on October 26-30 as a key initiative paving the way for the launch of the conference activities.The forum targets young people and university students specialising in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage, providing an interactive platform for young researchers to exchange experiences, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities for collaboration.This embodies the "Doha Youth Declaration 2025”.The forum will conclude with the launch of the visions and aspirations of the new generation of Arab researchers toward a more sustainable future for cultural heritage.The declaration will represent an open call to unify efforts among cultural and academic institutions in the Arab world, affirming the role of youth in leading future cultural work with a spirit of innovation and responsibility.

The Musée d'Orsay and Qatar Museums (QM) have announced an agreement to loan Gustave Courbet's masterpiece autoportrait, also known as Le Désespéré, to the Paris museum.By virtue of the agreement, Courbet's painting (The Desperate Man, circa 1844-1845) owned by Qatar Museums, is now on display at the Musée d'Orsay.The picture is to be on display at the Musée d'Orsay until the opening of the Art Mill Museum in Doha, an institution that will be devoted to Qatar Museums' modern and contemporary art collection.The agreement was announced on the occasion of the official tribute paid to Sylvain Amic, President of the Musées d'Orsay et de l'Orangerie.HE Chairperson of Qatar Museums Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad al-Thani said, "Sylvain Amic was a visionary who understood the need for works of art to travel and be accessible to different parts of the world. His work with us under a new cultural agreement between Qatar and France made possible the long-term loan of Gustave Courbet's self-portrait Le Désespéré, a painting we acquired for our future Art Mill Museum of modern and contemporary art. Le Désespéré reflects Courbet's emotional struggle to break away from artistic conventions and be understood. In a similar way, Sylvain moved away from the status quo, enhancing museum experiences beyond traditional norms. We honour his memory by unveiling Le Désespéré at the Musée d'Orsay on this occasion, with pride that the painting will travel regularly between Doha and Paris in the future, and with confidence that Sylvain's legacy will inspire the next generation of museum directors and curators to think about the power of culture beyond their own walls."Between 1842 and 1855, Gustave Courbet (1819-1877) produced some twenty painted and drawn self-portraits. This self-portrait is certainly the most remarkable and the most mysterious of them all. In it, Courbet depicts himself in the guise of a bohemian artist (billowing white shirt and blue smock), eyes wide, mouth half-open, and hands clutching his hair. The tight framing and violent lighting contribute to the work's dramatic tension, which is enhanced by the fact that the model's emotional state is caused by something that can only be guessed at.

Qatar residents and visitors have a final opportunity to immerse themselves in a captivating exploration of personal and collective memories at the “Printed Nostalgia” exhibition on view at Fire Station: Artists in Residence until September 1. The exhibition, curated by Saida Alkhulaifi and Fatima AlZaini, takes visitors on a journey through the evocative power of printed works at Gallery 4 of Fire Station. “Printed Nostalgia” showcases a diverse range of artistic perspectives, with contributing artists hailing from Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt, Turkiye, Morocco, Sudan, the US, the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Kenya, Yemen, Tunisia, Jordan, Iran, and Syria, among other countries. Through their prints, Qatar Museums (QM) noted that these artists dig deeper into themes of architecture, culture, migration, and the fabric of everyday life, creating a poignant space where emotions, identities, and histories converge. Each piece serves as a fragment of time, carefully preserved, shared, and reimagined for audiences to contemplate. Among the featured artists contributing their unique visions are Mubarak al-Thani (Qatar), Syeda Hiba Zehra (Pakistan), Jaili Hajo (Sudan), Ali Gad (Egypt), Meara Albast (US), Nuwair al-Hajeri (UAE), Rasha Yousif (Bahrain), Aleesha Suleman (Kenya), and Asli Gokce Musekura (Turkiye), alongside a host of other international talents. According to the QM, this show offers a distinct artistic experience for all who seek to understand the deep connections between art, memory, and the fundamental aspects of the human condition. It artfully blends various mediums, including digital illustration, photography, painting, collage, and written word, successfully transforming digital expressions into tangible, physical forms. The exhibition culminates in a specially designed cozy and reflective room, providing a quiet sanctuary for visitors to pause and reconnect with their own personal memories. This thoughtfully curated space honours the enduring and tangible power of remembrance, echoing the historical role of printed materials in preserving people’s stories. The artwork on display were carefully selected through an international open call that garnered 322 submissions from across the globe. From this extensive pool, 98 artists – whose works collectively represent a rich collection of voices and interpretations of nostalgia – were chosen. The Fire Station plays a crucial role in nurturing artistic talent by supporting artists and curators at all career stages. Through its comprehensive residency programmes, it provides vital working studio space, fosters creative exchange, and offers cultural enrichment both within Qatar and internationally through its Paris and New York residency programmes.

Qatar Museums (QM) announced its participation in the fifth edition of the “Little Employee” initiative, organised by Qatar Foundation’s Qatar Career Development Centre (QCDC), by hosting 35 children of QM staff for a full day of job-shadowing and hands-on learning on Wednesday.Throughout the day, children accompanied their parents and relatives across front-of-house and behind-the-scenes functions – observing how multidisciplinary teams collaborate to deliver exhibitions, protect collections, and serve visitors – while reinforcing the role of families as first career counselors.In a press statement, QM chief executive Mohammed Saad al-Rumaihi said: “At the QM, we believe career awareness should begin at an early stage, and be rooted in meaningful, inspiring experiences.”“By opening our working spaces,” he continued, “we provide the young generation with a unique glimpse into museums as dynamic environments – where administrators, historians, designers, conservators, and technologists collaborate in pursuit of a shared cultural mission, especially during this landmark year of which we celebrate our 20th year anniversary and two decades of cultural legacy, marked by Evolution Nation.”“We extend our gratitude the QCDC for the opportunity to help spark this awareness today, so that together we can nurture the talent that will sustain Qatar’s creative industries tomorrow,” al-Rumaihi said.The QM took part in the initiative to spotlight the breadth of meaningful careers that shape Qatar’s cultural and creative sectorsFrom conservation science and curatorial research to exhibition design, education, visitor experience, communications, and digital content, the initiative highlighted the wide range of professional pathways available in the field.The initiative closely aligns with the QM’s Education Learning and Outreach strategy, and reinforces efforts to build a diversified, knowledge-based economy as outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030.By promoting early, hands- on career exploration, the QM remains committed to inspiriting the next generation of cultural leaders and innovators.“We thank the QM for joining the Little Employee family and promoting early career development,” QCDC executive director Saad Abdulla al-Kharji said. “When leading institutions welcome children into authentic work settings, they help families guide informed academic and career decisions and inspire the next generation to contribute meaningfully to a knowledge-driven economy.”“Little Employee” is open to students worldwide and can be scheduled on any working day, offering flexibility for families and organisations.The programme introduces youth aged 7-15 to real workplace environments and encourages constructive dialogue at home about education and career choices.

Qatar Museums (QM), celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, will present a wide-ranging programme of cultural, educational, and creative activities for the community this September, a statement said Thursday.From stargazing during a once-in-a-century lunar eclipse at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) to storytelling and family tours at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ), and workshops at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, M7, and Liwan, the month is filled with opportunities to learn, explore, and be inspired.Highlights also include Tasweer’s immersive photography lecture with Kamal Naji, archaeology-inspired workshops, and interactive sports debates at 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum.Mathaf presents workshops and training sessions ranging from portraiture with Ismail Azzam to creative fashion upcycling and public speaking skills.How to Write a Public Speech: September 3, 4-5.30pm - A series of interactive training workshops designed to enhance communication, public speaking, and vocal expression skills, positively impacting participants’ personal and professional abilities.Art lessons with Ismail Azzam: Every Sunday and Tuesday throughout September, from 4-6pm - Participants will learn different portraiture techniques using various mediums, including pencil, charcoal and paint.Fashion Forward, September 29, 4-6pm - Upcycling Style is a 7-month journey happening once a month at Mathaf.NMoQ welcomes families for interactive storytelling, drop-in activities on pearl diving heritage, and guided tours that bring Qatar’s culture and history to life.Drop-in Activity: The Life of the Pearl Divers - English session: September 7, from 11am to 12noon. Storytelling: Mya’s First Day of School, September 11, 5-6pm. Family Tour: Family’s Exploration Journey - English Session: September 13, 1-2.30pmMIA offers experiences including a once-in-100-years total lunar eclipse viewing, family days, and creative workshops celebrating the beauty of nature in Islamic art.Total Lunar Eclipse: September 7, 7-10.30pm (eclipse peak at 8pm) - A public astronomy event organised by MIA in collaboration with Qatar Calendar House. The programme includes live observation of the total lunar eclipse from MIA Park, along with interactive astronomy activities for the whole family.Daytime Activities relating to the Total Lunar Eclipse: September 7 - Guided tour, English session at 3pm, for adults, exploring the scientific and technological contributions of the Islamic world.Treasure Hunt at 4pm - A family-friendly game for children (8+) and their families, combining fun with educational clues themed around the lunar eclipse.Art Workshop at 4.30pm - A creative session for adults, to create artwork inspired by the lunar eclipse. Family Day: The Blessings of Qur'anic Plants and their Meanings.September 13, 3-5pm - In collaboration with the Qur'anic Botanic Garden, the public are invited to discover the hidden blessings of Islamic plants and learn about their significance and representation in Islamic art and traditions.Sacred Gardens: The Plants of the Qur'an - September 23, 3-4.30pm3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum inspires dialogue on sport and society through international conferences, debates, and family-friendly peace-themed activities.321 Goals - September 7-11 4-6pm: A series of three week conferences, debates and hackathons will invite high profile speakers to debate the “big issues”.Celebrate International Day of Peace with Us: September 21, 10am to 12noon - This year’s theme, 'Act Now for a Peaceful World' reminds us that peace is not just a dream—it’s something we create together.Liwan Design Studios and Labs combines tradition and technology in a laser cutting and pattern-making workshop that bridges heritage with modern design.Design Meets Tradition: Laser Cutting & Pattern-Making Workshop - English Session: September 9, 16, 23, and 30, 4.30-6.30pmQM’s Archaeology Department engages children in hands-on artefact workshops exploring pottery and drawing techniques inspired by Qatar’s archaeological discoveries. Artefact Workshop - English Session: September 23, 4-5.30pm.M7 invites participants to develop fashion illustration skills in a hands-on drawing workshop designed for beginners, and personalise their own postcards in a creative session. Creative Letter and Post Card Workshop: English Session: September 20, 11.30am to 1pm.