Qatar's marine biodiversity take centre stage at Skillfest exhibition

Beyond its artistic and cultural offerings, Visit Qatar's Skillfest exhibition is showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Qatar’s marine biodiversity and provides visitors with a unique learning experience this summer.Taking place at four locations across Doha, including Place Vendome until August 15, the exhibition features the stunning works of local and Doha-based photographers Khaled Yahya al-Jabri, Faisal al-Jarkas, and Azzam al-Mannai.Skillfest, led by local and resident artists and craftsmen, celebrates local and sustainable arts and crafts inspired by Qatar’s marine environment. Qatari photographer al-Jabri, a member of the Qatar Photography Centre, is passionate about capturing the beauty of nature and marine life. His vibrant, intricate photographs take viewers to the underwater world, revealing the beauty of its inhabitants and fostering a deeper appreciation for nature.Syrian photographer Faisal al-Jarkas, born in 1990, shares a similar passion for the sea and wildlife. His journey in photography began in 2011, specialising in macro and wildlife photography. His love for the sea led him to become a professional diving instructor and underwater photography trainer, allowing him to capture the allure of marine life through his lens. Al-Jarkas’ work serves as an inspiration, raising awareness about the importance of preserving marine environments.Qatari photographer al-Mannai, known for his work across various fields, offers a fresh perspective at the exhibition. Through his meticulous attention to composition, he unveils the hidden beauty of the environment, inviting viewers to see the world anew.It is learnt that Qatar boasts the world’s largest population of whale sharks and the second-largest group of dugongs. Qatar's waters also teem with an abundance of marine life, including rays, dolphins, and sea turtles.The exhibition has been attracting many visitors, who are also invited to participate in artistic workshops and exhibitions celebrating local culture and environment. These educational and hands-on events demonstrate Visit Qatar’s commitment to diversifying its events offerings and putting a spotlight on the importance of arts and culture.According to Visit Qatar, Skillfest offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of Qatar’s marine biodiversity and experience the artistic talents of local photographers. This month-long celebration of artistry has been bringing together resident artists and craftsmen to share their unique talents and inspire the community.