Qatar on the global art map: curator

The thriving art scene in Qatar and the wider Gulf region takes centre stage at the “Art is About Art” exhibition, highlighting how venues such as the “Fire Station: Artist in Residence” have firmly placed the nation on the global art map.

“I love the art scene in the whole region, the Arab Gulf region, and Qatar is very special,” exhibition curator Dirk van Lierop told *Gulf Times, expressing his admiration for Qatar’s dedication to promoting both local and international artistic connections.

He noted that artistic places in Doha like the Fire Station: Artist in Residence are not only focused on showcasing Qatari culture but also serve as platforms for international exchange.

About the exhibition, van Lierop shared the long-term vision for its expansion, while stressing that current efforts are focused on its successful presentation.

“It took a lot of work, more than one and a half year of preparation to put this exhibition, but the vision is there to expand it,” he said. “We are looking for a partner to help us with that.”

“Art is About Art” is co-curated by Alejandra Barillas in collaboration with the Atelier Art Society and the Netherlands embassy in Doha.

Dutch ambassador Ferdinand Lahnstein echoed van Lierop’s view in his remarks, lauding Doha’s burgeoning role as an artistic hotspot.

“Doha is a city that has firmly established itself as a cultural hub, bringing together diverse perspectives and artistic impressions,” the envoy said.

He cited how the “Art is About Art” exhibition beautifully captures the spirit of cultural connection, calling art a universal language that transcends borders.

“From classic to contemporary, art place a huge role in how we express ourselves and connect with the world,” Lahnstein said. “It is something we incredible proud, and we are excited to share that passion with art here in Doha.”

The envoy expressed pride in the Netherlands’ contribution to the exhibition, which features Dutch artists Han Nooyen and Annemiek Roumen, alongside Qatar’s own Yousef Ahmad.

The exhibition showcases five renowned global artists, including Abdul Rahim Salem from the UAE and Jonathan Ardon from Guatemala, offering a profound exploration of human emotions, creativity, and spirituality.

Alongside “Art is About Art” is another powerful exhibition, titled “Eternal Echoes: The Silent Cry of Gaza” by Al Jazeera journalist Hayat El-Yamani.

Both exhibitions are open to the public until November 2.