Doha, Qatar – The newly opened Lawh Wa Qalam: Maqbool Fida Husain Museum, a Qatar Foundation initiative, has launched a comprehensive Learning and Outreach Program designed to engage diverse audiences with the work of the renowned Indian artist. Running from December 21st to 31st, 2025, the program offers guided tours and hands-on workshops for children, families, and teenagers, fostering a deeper understanding of M. F. Husain’s artistic legacy. Registration is currently open at lawhwaqalam.org.qa.
Located in Education City, the museum opened to the public in November 2025 and houses over 150 original works by Husain, including paintings, films, tapestries, and photographs. The Learning and Outreach Program aims to build upon this foundation by providing interactive experiences that complement the museum’s collection and promote art education within the community.
Exploring the World Through M. F. Husain
The program is structured around key themes prevalent in Husain’s art, such as color theory, form, storytelling, movement, and abstraction. Each session is designed to encourage participants to connect with the artwork on a personal level and explore their own creativity. According to Jowaher Al Marri, Manager of Communications Outreach, the program reflects the museum’s role as a dynamic learning space.
Workshops for Younger Artists
For children aged 4-7, the “Shapes and Colors” workshop introduces fundamental artistic concepts through gallery exploration and collage creation. This introductory session aims to spark an early appreciation for art and encourage experimentation with different materials. The program then moves to more complex concepts for older children.
Children aged 8-12 can participate in “Stories in the City: Reimagining Urban Life Through M. F. Husain’s Eyes.” This workshop focuses on how artists use composition and symbolism to convey narratives, prompting participants to create mixed-media cityscapes inspired by their surroundings. The focus is on visual literacy and creative expression.
Family and Teen Engagement
The museum also offers a family workshop, “Art in the Park: Collective Outdoor Mural Experience,” which combines observation and painting in an outdoor setting. This collaborative activity results in a community mural, fostering a sense of shared ownership and artistic expression. This initiative extends the museum experience beyond its walls.
Teenagers aged 13-17 have the opportunity to delve into more advanced artistic techniques with “Dynamic Narratives: Movement, Story & Abstraction.” This session explores gesture, rhythm, and abstraction as tools for visual communication, encouraging a deeper understanding of Husain’s abstract works and their underlying narratives. The program aims to challenge and inspire young artists.
Maqbool Fida Husain, often referred to as the “Picasso of India,” was a pivotal figure in 20th-century Indian art. His work frequently addressed social and political issues, blending traditional Indian aesthetics with modern art movements. The museum’s collection provides a comprehensive overview of his prolific career and diverse artistic styles.
The launch of this Learning and Outreach Program signifies a commitment to making art accessible and engaging for all members of the community. It also highlights the importance of art education in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural understanding. Qatar Foundation has long been a supporter of cultural initiatives, and this museum is a key component of that strategy.
Looking ahead, the museum plans to evaluate the success of the initial program and incorporate feedback to develop future educational offerings. Further expansion of the program, including potential collaborations with local schools and universities, is anticipated in 2026. The long-term impact of the museum and its educational initiatives on Qatar’s art scene remains to be seen, but it is expected to play a significant role in promoting artistic appreciation and innovation.
The museum will continue to monitor public interest and adjust its programming accordingly, with announcements regarding future sessions expected in the new year.
