Fire Station and Best Buddies Qatar unveil ‘Friends & More’ expo

Fire Station: Artist in Residence in collaboration with Best Buddies, unveiled ‘Friends & More’, an inspiring exhibition displaying a range of artworks created by individuals with disabilities.

Featuring themes of friendship and the iconic landmarks of Qatar, the exhibition highlights the immense creative talent of the local community. The second edition runs until December 21.

‘Friends & More’ is a part of the Best Buddies Qatar Initiative, which aims to empower individuals and give them a platform for artistic expression.

Participants in the Best Buddies Qatar initiative showcase a vibrant and diverse collection of artworks using a variety of techniques like the paper clay technique combining paper with clay to make unique artworks.

Different methods from embroidery to luminism are employed, and materials ranging from wood and jewellery to photographs and ceramics are used.

Through a series of collaborative art workshops, held in partnership with specialised art centres and organisations across Qatar, participants of all ages have had the opportunity to develop their artistic skills, while fostering friendship and creativity.

Khalifa al-Obaidly, director of Fire Station, reaffirmed the importance of this project saying: “At Fire Station, we are dedicated to promoting creative innovation and uplifting voices in the artistic community. We are honoured to partner with Best Buddies, a powerful initiative that highlights the creativity and potential of individuals with disabilities. This ‘Friends & More’ exhibition marks an important step towards greater inclusivity and celebrating the diverse stories within our community. We invite everyone to discover and be inspired by the unique talents of our friends in Best Buddies.”

The Best Buddies Qatar initiative is dedicated to promoting social inclusion for individuals with mild to moderate intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of programmes, activities, and events. Aligned with Fire Station’s mission to nurture local talent, the second edition of the ‘Friends & More’ art exhibition raises awareness about the incredible creativity of people with disabilities in our community.

Saida al-Khulaifi, Head of Programmes in Fire Station and Curator for the exhibition, said: “Fire Station and Best Buddies Qatar have a shared vision to amplify the voices of local talent and empower communities to tell their stories. The power of friendship, national pride, and unique artistic execution are all presented in this exhibition.”

The exhibition is open to the public at the Fire Station, Gallery 4, from Saturday-Thursday from 9:00am-7:00pm, and on Friday from 1:30pm-7:00pm.