Qatar’s celebrated JEDARIART public art program has expanded its reach to South America, bringing vibrant murals to Chile and Argentina this November. The initiative, a collaboration between Years of Culture and Qatar Museums’ Public Art Department, aims to foster cultural exchange and strengthen ties between Qatar and Latin American nations through the universal language of art. This latest expansion builds on the program’s success in transforming public spaces into dynamic open-air galleries.
The project saw Qatari artists partnering with local creatives in Valdivia and Buenos Aires, creating large-scale artworks that blend Qatari heritage with the unique landscapes and cultural symbols of each host city. Launched in 2020 under the patronage of H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, JEDARIART has become a cornerstone of Qatar’s cultural diplomacy efforts.
Expanding Cultural Horizons with JEDARIART
The arrival of JEDARIART in Chile marked the beginning of this South American chapter. In Valdivia, Qatari artists Aisha Al Fadhala (ALFA) and Mubarak Al Malik collaborated with Chilean artists, facilitated by Edgar Endress of George Mason University and the Institute for Public Art (IPA). Their work adorns the Municipality Building and the Architecture Department at Universidad Austral de Chile.
Blending Traditions in Valdivia
Mubarak Al Malik’s mural, “Love and Hospitality,” exemplifies the program’s core mission. Al Malik, known for his incorporation of the traditional Qatari battoollah face mask, skillfully integrated Qatari motifs with Chilean wildlife. The artwork features the mabkhara (incense burner) alongside the chucao bird, a species native to Chile, and combines Qatari textile patterns with the copihue flower.
Meanwhile, ALFA’s mural, “A Sip of Cultures,” reflects the natural beauty of Valdivia, often referred to as the gateway to Chilean Patagonia. Inspired by the region’s mountains, sunsets, and vibrant colors, the artwork centers around a traditional Qatari ghawa cup, encircled by local flora and fauna. Henna-inspired patterns, informed by research into textiles from the Los Ríos region, further blend Qatari and Chilean aesthetics. The inclusion of the dandurria bird and chilco flowers adds to the mural’s rich symbolism.
Buenos Aires Embraces Qatari Art
Following the success in Chile, JEDARIART moved eastward to Buenos Aires, Argentina. Artists Abdulla Alemadi and Abdulla Al Sallat worked in an emerging neighborhood of the city, contributing to its growing artistic landscape. Details of their specific murals were not immediately available, but the project continues the theme of cultural fusion seen in Valdivia.
This expansion of JEDARIART represents a significant step in Qatar’s ongoing cultural exchange initiatives. According to Qatar Museums, the program aims to promote understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures through public art. The initiative also supports local artists and contributes to the revitalization of public spaces. Public art installations, like those created through JEDARIART, are increasingly recognized for their ability to enhance community engagement and foster a sense of place.
The success of this South American tour highlights the growing interest in cross-cultural artistic collaborations. The program’s focus on integrating local elements with Qatari traditions has proven to be a successful formula for creating meaningful and engaging public art. The initiative also aligns with broader trends in urban development that prioritize public spaces and artistic expression.
Looking ahead, Qatar Museums has not yet announced the next destination for JEDARIART. However, officials have indicated a continued commitment to expanding the program’s global reach. Future projects will likely focus on regions with strong cultural ties to Qatar or those identified as key partners in ongoing diplomatic efforts. The timing and specific locations of these future installations remain subject to ongoing planning and logistical considerations.
