Doha, Qatar – Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser officially inaugurated the Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum in Education City on Wednesday, establishing a dedicated space to celebrate the life and work of the renowned Indian artist, Maqbool Fida Husain. The museum, which opens to the public on November 28th, houses over 150 original works and personal artifacts from Husain’s collection, held in trust by Qatar Foundation (QF). This new cultural landmark aims to foster cross-cultural dialogue and inspire creativity.
The opening ceremony, attended by dignitaries and art experts from around the globe, showcased Husain’s artistic journey and the historical influences that shaped his iconic style. Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser emphasized Husain’s ability to transcend borders and connect diverse cultures through his art, fulfilling a dream of the late artist. The event culminated in the unveiling of Husain’s original sketch for the museum itself, now a realized architectural vision.
A Legacy Honored: The M. F. Husain Museum
The Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum is designed as more than just a display of artwork; it’s intended to be an immersive experience. Visitors will be able to explore Husain’s life through paintings, films, tapestries, and photography, including pieces never before publicly exhibited. The museum also features personal items offering insight into the artist’s life and creative process, alongside interviews and quotes providing context to his work.
Exploring Husain’s Artistic Themes
The museum’s galleries are organized to trace Husain’s artistic evolution and the recurring themes in his work. These include his exploration of faith and philosophy, his pursuit of unity and diversity, and his connection to his Yemeni ancestry and the broader heritage of Arab civilization. Notably, the museum showcases 35 paintings inspired by Arab civilization created before Husain’s death in 2011.
Additionally, Seeroo fi al ardh, Husain’s final masterpiece unveiled by QF in 2019, is now integrated into the museum as a dedicated gallery. This work, celebrating humanity’s progress, exemplifies Husain’s commitment to large-scale, socially conscious art. The museum’s design, conceived by architect Martand Khosla, reflects Husain’s vision of a dynamic and innovative space.
Qatar Foundation views the museum as a key component of its commitment to fostering cultural understanding and artistic expression. The addition of the M. F. Husain Museum expands QF’s existing portfolio of public art installations across Education City, offering accessible art experiences for the community. This initiative aligns with Qatar’s broader national vision to become a regional hub for arts and culture.
Beyond the exhibition spaces, the museum offers a range of amenities, including a café, gift shop, library, and a Creativity Hub designed to encourage artistic exploration. An auditorium will host events and lectures related to Husain’s work and contemporary art. The museum will operate from 10am-5pm Saturday through Thursday, and 1:30pm-7:30pm on Fridays, remaining closed on Mondays and public holidays. Photography without flash is permitted, and guided tours in both Arabic and English will be available, with audio tours planned for introduction in 2026.
The opening of the Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum represents a significant investment in Qatar’s cultural infrastructure and its dedication to preserving and promoting global artistic heritage. The museum’s impact on the local art scene and its ability to attract international visitors remains to be seen. Future developments will likely focus on expanding educational programs and fostering collaborations with other cultural institutions, further solidifying Qatar’s position as a center for artistic innovation and cultural exchange. The success of the museum will be measured by its ability to engage audiences and inspire a deeper appreciation for Husain’s legacy and the power of art.
Qatar Foundation continues to expand its cultural offerings, with further announcements regarding new initiatives expected in the coming months.
