EXHIBITION: Amal with her works at an exhibition. Photos supplied
Amal al-Aathem is one of the most prominent and proactive Qatari artists today. Her reputation as an artist with a real voice and message has also won her respect internationally. Her work has been widely exhibited in the region and in different other parts of the world.
Amal has an acute and critical eye on social and cultural issues involving women today. Her work is extremely sensitive and very warm at times. Every painting feels like breeze of fresh air passing through you. The paintings involve you with the presence and absence of the figures, light and shadows and with what is said or suggested.
In the contemporary art panorama in Qatar, Amal is definitely one of its uplifting pillars. Having been mentored and inspired by many of the Qatari pioneer artists, she is today a source of inspiration and force for the very young and aspiring artists in Qatar. She is seen as an example of fortitude, resilience in her artistic practice and a strong voice.
Recently, Community met the artist at her 7th Heaven Visual Art Center and discussed about her work and achievements.
Tell us about yourself and your journey as an artist.
I started expressing myself as an artist when I was just nine-year-old. My family supported me and provided me all required materials and fabrics. I got first real appreciation at my pre-school level when one of my teachers chose my work for an art competition. My teacher also took my work and me to a bigger exhibition when I was in Grade-IV. My family and I were very happy. I got all the material I wanted to do my artwork. I started oil painting when I was only in Grade-V. I went for glass and silk paintings also at an early age.
I still remember that I liked agriculture farms, gardens, farmers and the sheep at that time. My father appreciated all this. From there, I realised that it is me.
I was also very good at studies. I studied science. My father wanted me to be a doctor but I opted for my passion, the artwork. I studied art in Qatar, Kuwait, and in other countries. I put in all my hard work, got blessings from my parents and support from the people around me to be what I am today.
Share some of your achievements as a professional artist.
I studied art and decoration for theatre in Kuwait. Then I finished my education in art at Qatar University. Soon after my graduation, I did my first exhibition in Doha with a group of teachers under the Fine Arts Society.
In 2001, I did a solo exhibition showcasing 37 art works in Bahrain. I was happy to represent my country in the exhibition. I sold most of my work there. In the same year, I had to do another exhibition in Doha. Since these exhibitions, there has been no looking back.
What genre of art you prefer the most?
I started my work with realistic art keeping in mind my environment. Later, I said no. I can do something more. I went for more studies and got acquaintance with contemporary art. I practiced textures. I am very good at textures.
I continue to do the work to be a contemporary artist. I started creating video art in 2003. I also work on conceptual art. I do sculptures. I wanted to do something unique. I remember I got a big hall in Al Bidda. I made a big screen video and did installation work. Some people did not like the work. But, I learnt a lot as it was something new.
I travelled a lot. I attended biennales (large-scale international contemporary art exhibitions) in different countries. I spent a lot of time, energy and finances to gain knowledge of different art forms. I have also been getting very good support from the Ministry of Education in Qatar.
How blessed you think that you are to be an artist in Qatar?
Of course [I am blessed]! Earlier, there were few people in Qatar to take care of the young artists. However, with the passage of time, things have improved a lot.
I had a passion for the art and I was looking for opportunities. I remember when Visual Art Centre was opened. I worked as an art co-ordinator there.
Now, Ministry of Culture in Qatar provides free training to the young artists. When I was growing up, I saw Her Highness Sheikha Moza on media and TV. I saw her as a role model. My family also supported me and expressed their pride in my work as I was representing my country. Sheikha Moza had been a role model for the Qatari women. We are very proud of her.
What future do you see for female artists in Qatar?
They are reaching out very easily now a days. Earlier, you had to catch an opportunity. Now, you have a lot of opportunities. You got Katara, Ministry of Culture, and Qatar Museum.
Now, the competition is very hard. You have to work hard for yourself. It is now not one country. There is a world in Doha.
Share a piece of advice for young artists.
They have to work hard. All the doors are open for them. They need to have their own targets. It is not child’s play. When there are more opportunities, there are more challenges also. The artists have to be proud of Qatar and the opportunities it offers.
How will you explain contemporary art?
It depends on the age. It depends on the place you are at. It differs from generation to generation. Some people are comfortable with the contemporary art. However, new things keep on coming up. Modernisation of the art galleries and studios is a continuous process.
What is art for you?
Art is everywhere. Art is everything. Art is a therapy. You can see the mood of an artist while looking at what he or she is painting. Art can reduce depression and stress. That is why I call my centre 7th Heaven. Allah has created man beautiful. Man wants to see beautiful things. Art is also mission and it registers history.
What are your future plans?
I teach art. I have a group of artists ready to help others. I run my art centre to teach art. I can share my art skills and vision with other through the centre.
I love to be a full time artist. I want to spend all my time to create new projects and to learn art. I want to do exhibitions everywhere in the world. I have been to less known places to show my work. I want the people to know our religion and our culture.
Who has been your major inspiration?
At different stages, I had different inspirations. For example, 10 years ago, I was very impressed by the works of Fernando Botero, a Colombia artist. He is serious. He draws for his community. He records simple things.
“When I was growing up, I saw Her Highness Sheikha Moza on media and TV. I saw her as a role model. Sheikha Moza has been a role model for the Qatari women. We are very proud of her”
