Fire Station: Artist in Residence is hosting a first-of-its-kind exhibit in Doha: A World Without Sight and Sound: Living the Experience by Qatari artist Noora al-Shahwani.
The project, on view November 25, welcomes the public for a deep exploration of the experiences of individuals who are blind or deaf. It is a journey into a world beyond the two vital senses - sight and sound - with its immersive style and unique execution and offers a chance for the audience to reflect on the lives of people with disabilities and encourages empathy and appreciation for those who are blind and/or deaf.
“This performance is a tribute to the blind and deaf members of our community and it helps the public gain insight into their daily lives,” Fire Station director Khalifa al-Obaidly said.
Two studios will be utilised to simulate different sensory experiences in this performance. In the first room, visitors will feel certain objects and hear sounds to help guide them throughout the space and experience what it is like to find their way without sight. The room will be equipped with floor markings specifically designed for the visually impaired, along with canes for use by sighted individuals.
Visitors will be asked to navigate these pathways with their eyes closed, guided by the floor markings. The second room offers an experience of deafness; some videos will be projected without sound, allowing visitors to feel how deaf people rely on visual information without sound. Visitors will attempt to lip read from silent screens as part of the experience.
The project is a showcase of the power of art in bridging gaps between different communities and how art can help build the character of a society. Al-Shahwani is a student at the College of Education at Qatar University, specialising in Special Education. She has organised numerous workshops in collaboration with Fire Station and Qatar National Library with her most recent workshop focusing on teaching the Braille language.
The exhibit can be viewed at the Fire Station, Studio 101 and 104 from Saturday to Thursday from 9am to 7pm and on Friday from 1.30 pm to 7pm.
Fire Station, an exterior view
