Doha, Qatar – Art enthusiasts have a limited time to experience “Portals in Flux,” the concluding exhibition of the ninth Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program at the Fire Station. The showcase, featuring works exploring themes of movement and transformation, will officially close on December 31, 2025, at the Garage Gallery. This exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the creative process and the diverse perspectives of Qatar’s burgeoning art scene.
The exhibition, which opened earlier this year, presents a collection of art across various mediums, created by the 15 artists who participated in the highly competitive residency program. It’s a significant cultural event for Doha, attracting both local residents and international visitors interested in contemporary art. The Fire Station, a former civil defense building transformed into a vibrant arts hub, provides a distinctive backdrop for these innovative works.
Exploring Movement and Transformation in “Portals in Flux”
“Portals in Flux” centers on the idea of transitions – physical journeys, emotional shifts, and conceptual breakthroughs. The artworks delve into how we perceive and navigate these changes, often blurring the lines between reality and memory. Visitors can expect to encounter pieces that challenge their understanding of time and space, prompting reflection on personal and collective experiences.
A Diverse Cohort of Artists
The 15 artists featured in the exhibition represent a broad range of nationalities and artistic disciplines. The cohort includes artists from Syria, France, India, Canada, Pakistan, Colombia, Egypt, Jordan, and Sudan, alongside several talented Qatari creatives. This international mix fosters cross-cultural dialogue and enriches the artistic landscape of Qatar.
Participating artists include Alaa Albarazy (Syria), Alexandrine Guerin (France), Salha Al Subaiei (Qatar), Reem Al Shamari (Qatar), Sara Al Naimi (Qatar), Surabhi Gaikwad (India), Galyiah Al Mohannadi (Qatar), Lolwa Al Meghaiseeb (Qatar), Khalid Alarabi (Sudan), Reham Mohamed (Sudan), Naima Al Majdobah (Jordan), John Vendetti (Canada), Fae Siddiqui (Pakistan), Natalia Mejia (Colombia), and Nada Elkharashi (Egypt). Their individual approaches to the central theme contribute to the exhibition’s overall complexity and depth.
The Fire Station’s Artist-in-Residence program, launched in 2015, is a key initiative of Qatar Museums, aimed at nurturing local talent and fostering a thriving artistic community. The program provides artists with dedicated studio space, mentorship from established figures in the art world, and opportunities to showcase their work. This support system is crucial for the development of emerging artists in the region.
According to Qatar Museums, the program is designed to encourage experimentation and push artistic boundaries. The resulting works often reflect the unique cultural context of Qatar while engaging with global artistic trends. The program’s emphasis on mentorship and curatorial guidance helps artists refine their practice and present their work to a wider audience.
The exhibition also functions as a valuable archive of the residency experience. Each piece serves as a testament to the artist’s journey, capturing the challenges, discoveries, and transformations that occurred during their time at the Fire Station. This documentation contributes to a broader understanding of the creative process and the impact of residency programs on artistic development.
Beyond the visual arts, the Fire Station complex also hosts workshops, lectures, and other events that further engage the community with contemporary art. These initiatives aim to make art accessible to all and to cultivate a deeper appreciation for creative expression. The area surrounding the Fire Station has become a focal point for artistic activity in Doha, attracting a diverse crowd of art lovers and practitioners. The program’s impact extends to the broader cultural tourism sector, enhancing Qatar’s reputation as a destination for art and innovation.
As the December 31, 2025, closing date approaches, the opportunity to view “Portals in Flux” and experience the culmination of the ninth AIR program is dwindling. Qatar Museums has not yet announced details regarding the tenth iteration of the Artist-in-Residence program, including application deadlines or the theme of the next exhibition. Further information will likely be released in the first half of 2026, and interested artists and art enthusiasts should monitor the Qatar Museums website for updates.
The future of the Fire Station and its residency program remains a significant element in Qatar’s ongoing cultural development. Continued investment in these initiatives will be crucial for sustaining the momentum of the local art scene and attracting international attention. The program’s success will depend on its ability to adapt to evolving artistic trends and to provide meaningful support to emerging artists.
