Nine artists from Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) are part of the latest Artist in Residence (AIR) exhibition at the Fire Station in Doha, Qatar. The exhibition, titled “A House Overlooking the World,” features works created by 17 artists who participated in the 2023-2024 residency program, including the nine from VCUarts Qatar. The exhibition is running from September 9 to December 31 and showcases a diverse range of artwork created by faculty and graduates from one of the region’s top art and design schools.
The VCUarts Qatar designers featured in the exhibition include the creative studio MOTOElastico, alumna Somaia Dorzadeh, alumna Aisha Al Abdulla, faculty member Charlotte Rodenberg, alumna Hannah Fakhri, alumna Maryam Altajer, alumna Noora Alhardan, and alumna Zainab Alshibani. Visitors can view the installations at the Garage Gallery on the Fire Station’s premises, where the artists explore themes of environmental, social, and cultural explorations. The artworks reflect on finding a sense of self in a rapidly changing world, sharing rich and diverse narratives and emotions.
The Fire Station’s director and VCUarts Qatar faculty member, Khalifa Al Obaidly, expressed pride in the artists’ achievements and the introspective nature of the exhibition. He commended the artists for their skillful display of artistic representation and looks forward to seeing their growth and impact in the artistic community and beyond. VCUarts Qatar faculty and students have been actively participating in the AIR program at the Fire Station since its inception, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between the two institutions.
The AIR program at the Fire Station is designed to foster and promote artistic talent in Qatar, providing selected artists with studio space, fabrication facilities, expert mentorship, production support, and curatorial guidance. The program spans nine months, usually from September to June, offering emerging and mid-career artists an opportunity to develop their art practice and enhance their skills. Artists have the chance to engage with the local art community, collaborate with other artists, and showcase their work in an internationally recognized setting.
Participation in the AIR program allows artists to explore their creativity, experiment with new techniques, and engage with diverse audiences. The program provides a supportive environment for artists to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and make meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape of Qatar. By collaborating with artists from different backgrounds and disciplines, participants can broaden their perspectives, exchange ideas, and inspire each other to create innovative and thought-provoking artwork.
The AIR exhibition at the Fire Station in Doha serves as a platform for artists to showcase their talent, share their unique perspectives, and contribute to the vibrant artistic community in Qatar. By highlighting the work of VCUarts Qatar faculty and graduates, the exhibition celebrates the creativity, diversity, and innovation of the local art scene. Visitors can experience a blend of traditional techniques, contemporary practices, and experimental approaches, reflecting the dynamic nature of the region’s art and design landscape. The exhibition serves as a testament to the creative potential of artists in Qatar and their ability to make a lasting impact on the global art scene.
