Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Doha, Qatar, recently opened the ‘Khalid Albaih: Shahid’ exhibition, showcasing the work of Sudanese artist and political cartoonist Khalid Albaih. The exhibition runs from May 6 to August 10 and aims to prompt visitors to reflect on their role as witnesses to the ongoing ethnic cleansing in Gaza. Curated by Fatma Mostafawi and Hadeel Al Kohaji, the exhibition features an interactive audiovisual installation with four printed digital illustrations displayed on a mirror, highlighting key moments from the Gaza tragedy that went viral on social media. Visitors’ reflections in the mirror among the depictions of victims emphasize their role as witnesses, with a recorded recitation of the names and ages of martyrs adding to the immersive experience.
Zeina Arida, Director of Mathaf, expressed pride in unveiling Albaih’s exhibition, noting the museum’s commitment to showcasing regional artists and important causes. She emphasized Mathaf’s dedication to showcasing the diverse tapestry of Arab artistry and shedding light on societal structures through art. Through his installation, Albaih aims to show visitors their individual importance as witnesses who add their voices to those advocating for Palestine in the face of biased mainstream media. The use of reflection in the exhibition not only serves as a powerful visual tool but also highlights the world’s complicity in the Gaza tragedy, challenging contemporary politics and international law.
Albaih himself commented on the importance of visibility, stating that if the world can see Gaza, they can also see Sudan and the issues facing all communities. Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art acts as a leading institution in the Arab world for modern and contemporary art, providing a vibrant environment for discussions on art in the region and beyond. The museum’s annual temporary exhibition program showcases internationally acclaimed artists whose work sparks conversations on social and political shifts in Arab history and contemporary life. Through exhibitions like ‘Khalid Albaih: Shahid’, Mathaf continues to promote dialogue and reflection on important issues through art.
In collaboration with curators Mostafawi and Al Kohaji, Khalid Albaih’s ‘Shahid’ exhibition at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Doha, Qatar, offers visitors an interactive and thought-provoking experience. The exhibition, running from May 6 to August 10, invites viewers to reflect on the ongoing ethnic cleansing in Gaza and their role as witnesses to the tragedy. Through an immersive audiovisual installation featuring four printed digital illustrations displayed on a mirror, visitors are confronted with viral moments from the Gaza crisis, emphasizing their role as witnesses as they see their reflections alongside depictions of victims. The exhibition aims to challenge mainstream media narratives and showcase the individual’s importance in speaking out against injustice.
Mathaf Director Zeina Arida highlighted the museum’s dedication to showcasing regional artists like Albaih and addressing important causes through art. Albaih’s installation underscores the viewer’s role in advocating for Palestine and sheds light on the world’s complicity in the tragedy through both literal and figurative reflections. By encouraging visitors to recite the names and ages of martyrs, Albaih emphasizes the human cost of the conflict and the need for global awareness and action. Through exhibitions like ‘Khalid Albaih: Shahid’, Mathaf continues to serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue and reflection on pressing social and political issues through the lens of contemporary art.
