The exhibition at the Garage Gallery will be on view until December 31. Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the opening, Fire Station’s Programmes and Exhibitions head Saida al-Khulaifi said “A House Overlooking the World” is a metaphor reflecting the overarching theme of finding one’s sense of self in a rapidly changing world.
“This exhibition explores three key aspects of urban identity: social, cultural, and environmental. Each artwork reflects the individual and collective experiences of the artists, providing a relatable point for every visitor,” she noted.
According to al-Khulaifi, these themes evoke deep emotions and feelings, ranging from comfort and safety to displacement, complicated human relationships, and the often challenging search for oneself.
She said the artists grapple with the duality of these experiences, prompting viewers to reflect on their own journeys. She highlighted the uniqueness of this exhibition as it showcases the exceptional talent nurtured by Fire Station’s AIR programme.
The participating artists are: Somaia Dorzadeh (Iran), Oleksandra Umanska (Ukraine), Charlotte Rodenberg (US), Marco Bruno and Simone Carena (Italy), Ann Mc Nally (Ireland), Alanoud Alghamdi (Saudi Arabia), Maryam AlTajer (Bahrain) and Hannah Fakhri, Abdulla AlSallat, Shuaa al-Kuwari, Noora al-Hardan, Aljaze AlNaimi, Zainab AlShibani, Aisha al-Abdulla, Mohammed AlEmadi and Alkhuzama Alharami (Qatar).
“The eighth edition of AIR has been a massive success and the quality of the exhibition is a testament to the artists’ talents. We hope to continue supporting local artists and nurture talent to help them actualise their potential” al-Khulaifi said.
“A House Overlooking the World”, she added, also digs deeper to the unique dynamic of Doha, a city undergoing rapid transformation while simultaneously dealing with nostalgia for the past.
“The artists being part of the society express those feelings, they look into memory, they look into nostalgia, but at the same time, trying to find themselves either physically or spiritually,” al-Khulaifi said.
In a press statement, Fire Station director Khalifa al-Obaidly expressed his pride in the artists’ achievements, saying: “The introspective nature of the exhibition required a skillful display of artistic representation which is not easy. It was masterfully done by the artists and I would like to congratulate them on their hard work. We look forward to seeing their growth and development in the future and the impact they make in the artistic community and beyond”.
A renowned international residency programme, organisers noted that AIR is designed to foster and promote artistic talent in Qatar. It provides emerging and mid-career artists with a transformative platform to enhance their skills through expert mentorship, production support, and curatorial guidance. The program also offers access to studio space and fabrication facilities to support their artistic development.
The AIR programme earned international recognition, including a three-month residency at the Cite Internationale des Art in Paris and Studio 209 NY, a part of the renowned International Studio & Curatorial Programme in New York City.
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