Qatar Museums recently unveiled a landmark exhibition, Ellsworth Kelly at 100, in honor of the late Ellsworth Kelly, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Organized by Glenstone Museum and showcased by M7 in Qatar, the retrospective celebrates what would have been Kelly’s 100th birthday. The exhibition features nearly 70 works, including painting, sculpture, photography, and works on paper, showcasing Kelly’s minimalist approach and profound use of color and form.
The opening of the exhibition was inaugurated by the Chairperson of Qatar Museums, H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, alongside Emily Rales, Director of Glenstone Museum. With key loans from prestigious institutions like Centre Pompidou, National Gallery of Art, and the Whitney Museum of American Art, the exhibition offers a comprehensive exploration of Kelly’s career. This marks the first major survey of Kelly’s work in the MENASA region, contributing to Qatar’s cultural landscape and highlighting the ongoing cultural collaboration between Qatar and the USA as part of the Qatar-USA 2021 Year of Culture.
Ellsworth Kelly at 100 is on view through February 25, 2025, providing audiences in Doha with the opportunity to experience Kelly’s iconic works for the first time in the region. This presentation is a continuation of Kelly’s centennial celebrations, following successful exhibitions at Glenstone Museum and the Foundation Louis Vuitton in Paris. The exhibition showcases the lasting impact Kelly has had on the art world and serves as a significant milestone in Qatar’s commitment to enriching its cultural offerings.
The comprehensive retrospective not only features works from the Glenstone collection but also highlights key loans from renowned institutions, adding to the depth and significance of the exhibition. Kelly’s legacy and influence on the art world are evident in the diverse range of media and styles represented in the exhibition, illustrating his innovative and groundbreaking approach to art. The inclusion of works from institutions across the globe further emphasizes the universal appeal and relevance of Kelly’s art.
By bringing Ellsworth Kelly’s work to Qatar for the first time, Qatar Museums and M7 are providing audiences with a unique opportunity to engage with the artist’s iconic pieces and gain a deeper understanding of his contributions to the art world. The exhibition serves as a testament to Kelly’s enduring legacy and allows viewers to appreciate his groundbreaking work in a new cultural context. The success of the exhibition in Doha underscores the significance of cultural collaborations between nations and the impact of sharing art across borders.
In conclusion, Ellsworth Kelly at 100 is a landmark exhibition that celebrates the extraordinary career of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. By showcasing Kelly’s work in the MENASA region for the first time, Qatar Museums and Glenstone Museum are contributing to the cultural landscape of Doha and highlighting the ongoing cultural collaboration between Qatar and the USA. The comprehensive retrospective offers audiences a rare opportunity to engage with Kelly’s iconic works and gain a deeper appreciation of his lasting impact on the art world.
