Football superstars' portraits steal the show

Portraits of football superstars – painted live by Doha-based artists – at the Souq Waqif Art Centre cannot be left unnoticed, especially during this period when fans from various countries are frequenting Qatar’s popular tourist destination.
From Argentina’s Lionel Messi to Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Brazil’s Neymar da Silva Santos Junior, among other renowned footballers, the paintings serve as one of the main attractions at Souq Waqif and put a spotlight on Qatar’s burgeoning art scene.
Egyptian artist Wafa Elsebaie told Gulf Times that she did a series of paintings of football players from the participating teams in the FIFA World Cup 2022, currently displayed at the centre.
“This took me around four months to finish which I enjoyed a lot. Also, I got a lot of appreciation from all the visitors, which was very encouraging. My favourite team is Argentina (Messi),” Wafa told Gulf Times.
“I am very much thankful to Qatar for this amazing experience and exposure to the world, and I am very happy to be part of this event,” she said.
The artist, a member of the Souq Waqif Art Centre and participant in a number of previously held exhibitions in Qatar, lauded the country for the exceptional hosting and organising of the tournament, describing it as “beyond imagination and expectation.”
Wafa said the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 provided her and other artists the opportunity to showcase their talent, as well as meet, interact, exchange thoughts, and share cultures with nationals from different countries around the world,
For the artist, the event in Qatar is art in itself: from the beautification of the venues to the installation of stunning sculptures across Qatar – all done smoothly and professionally.
Algerian artist Ismail Bousba’s various artworks – particularly his Messi portrait – have also captured the interest of many football fans who have frequented Souq Waqif during the tournament.
Eduardo from Argentina who passed by Souq Waqif and Msheireb Downtown Doha ahead of the France vs Morocco match on Wednesday, said he was extremely attracted to the paintings of Wafa and Bousba, as both captured the exact details of Messi’s face.
While taking videos and pictures of the artworks at the centre, he said: “I find this place very inviting especially for a tourist like me who come from Latin America. I like the installations and these extraordinary works of art, they truly reflect Qatari and Arabic culture and heritage.
“After visiting this centre, I realised I should extend my stay in Qatar and also explore Souq Al Wakra and other cultural centres such as Katara (cultural village) and the National Museum of Qatar.”
The Souq Waqif Art Centre organises different art activities and workshops for both artists and enthusiasts, serving as a platform to enhance their skills.