Doha, Qatar – Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art has launched “Dirwaza,” a community art project designed to celebrate creativity, inclusion, and cultural identity within Qatar. The three-day event, which began January 15, 2026, features an exhibition showcasing collaborative artworks and interactive activities. This initiative underscores Mathaf’s commitment to accessible art experiences and community engagement, aligning with broader national cultural objectives.
The exhibition is located at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, encompassing the Library, Manara, and Green Area, and will run through January 17, 2026. “Dirwaza,” meaning “door” in an old Qatari dialect, symbolizes an open gateway to cultural exchange and belonging. The project is part of Qatar Museums’ “Evolution Nation” campaign, recognizing 50 years of cultural development since the founding of the National Museum of Qatar.
Celebrating Community Through Art at Mathaf
The “Dirwaza” project represents a significant effort to integrate diverse segments of Qatari society into the arts. Developed over the past year, the initiative involved close partnerships with several organizations, including Best Buddies at The Shafallah Centre, the Centre for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly “Ehsan” under the Ministry of Social Development and Family, Awsaj Academy, and The Department of Early Years Education at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. These collaborations facilitated participation from individuals of all ages and abilities, including seniors and people with disabilities.
Collaborative Program Development
Each partner organization contributed to the development of unique artistic programs. The Shafallah Centre’s Best Buddies program focused on fostering artistic expression among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “Ehsan” provided opportunities for senior citizens to engage in creative activities, promoting social interaction and cognitive stimulation. Awsaj Academy integrated art into its educational curriculum, while the Ministry of Education and Higher Education’s Early Years Education Department designed interactive experiences for young children.
The resulting exhibition showcases the outcomes of these programs, highlighting the creative achievements of participants. Additionally, the event features open-air painting sessions and a dedicated children’s pavilion, offering hands-on artistic experiences for all attendees. Qatar Museums aims to position the country as a global hub for art and culture, and projects like “Dirwaza” are central to this vision.
According to Qatar Museums, the “Evolution Nation” campaign aims to reflect on the nation’s cultural heritage while embracing its future as a dynamic center for artistic innovation. The campaign encompasses a wide range of exhibitions, events, and initiatives designed to engage both local communities and international audiences. This focus on cultural development is a key component of Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which prioritizes investment in human capital and a knowledge-based economy.
The choice of “Dirwaza” as the project’s name is deliberate, emphasizing the museum’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. Museum officials stated that the name represents a welcoming space for all members of the community to connect with art and with each other. This approach aligns with a growing global trend towards participatory art practices, where audiences are actively involved in the creative process.
The event also coincides with Mathaf’s 15th anniversary, marking a milestone in the museum’s history. Since its founding, Mathaf has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting modern and contemporary art from the Arab world. The museum’s collection includes works by prominent Arab artists, and its exhibitions explore a wide range of themes related to Arab identity and culture. The museum’s ongoing efforts to broaden its reach and engage new audiences are expected to continue in the coming years.
Looking ahead, Qatar Museums intends to establish “Dirwaza” as an annual event. The success of the inaugural edition will be evaluated to inform future iterations and ensure continued community relevance. Further details regarding the selection process for participating organizations and artists in subsequent years remain to be announced, and will likely be influenced by the ongoing development of Qatar’s cultural landscape and the evolving priorities of the “Evolution Nation” campaign.
The long-term impact of “Dirwaza” on fostering a more inclusive and vibrant art scene in Qatar will be a key area of observation for cultural stakeholders. The project’s emphasis on collaboration and community engagement could serve as a model for other cultural institutions in the region.
