Qatar is becoming a hub for public art installations, with over a hundred captivating artworks dotting the landscape thanks to the initiatives by Qatar Museums (QM). QM is actively engaging budding artists from across the region to contribute to the growing list of public art pieces in Qatar. Artists are invited to participate in the Annual Intervention initiative, which aims to create site-specific or community-specific artwork that enhances the quality of life for people within a community and fosters a sense of belonging and identity.
The goal of the annual intervention is to transform ordinary and underdeveloped public spaces into vibrant and welcoming places that encourage social interaction, cultural expression, and community engagement. All art pieces commissioned under this initiative will be fabricated locally or regionally, showcasing the talent and creativity of artists in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Past commissions include artworks like ‘Shelters’ by Marco Bruno and Michael Perrone, located in Lusail, and ‘Dar Al Tayor’ by Bachir Mohamad.
In addition to the Annual Intervention initiative, QM has also launched the Temporary Public Art Initiative, inviting students and alumni in Qatar to propose temporary public artworks showcasing their creativity. Selected artists will be commissioned to create their proposed artwork within a budget of up to QR30,000. These temporary pieces will be installed in Liwan Design Studios and Labs, providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent and contribute to the public art scene in Qatar.
Another exciting initiative by QM is the JEDARIART programme, which brings artists together to add vibrancy and meaning to Doha’s city walls through murals and street art. This programme aims to transform city walls into outdoor galleries, showcasing the diversity and creativity of local and regional artists. Prominent public art pieces can already be found at various locations across Qatar, including Hamad International Airport, Souq Waqif, National Museum of Qatar, Museum of Islamic Art, West Bay, Cultural Village Foundation-Katara, Lusail, National Theater, Doha Corniche, Qatar University, Education City, and more.
Abdullatif Al Jasmi, Director of Cultural Heritage Protection at QM, mentioned that QM is overseeing over 9,000 heritage sites across Qatar, highlighting the organization’s commitment to preserving and promoting culture and heritage in the country. With a growing number of public art installations and initiatives to support budding artists, Qatar is poised to become a vibrant hub for creativity and cultural expression in the region. Artists from across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries have the opportunity to contribute to the public art scene in Qatar, creating meaningful and engaging artworks that enrich the lives of the community.
