By Ailyn Agonia
THE unjust blockade imposed on Qatar not only encouraged innovative ways for the government and its people to cope with the challenges brought by the situation but it also influenced the local art scene and gave rise to deep nationalistic sentiments among the artists.
The overwhelming popularity and influence of the iconic Tamim Al Majd portrait by Qatari artist Ahmed Almaadheed is the foremost testament to the influence of the art scene during the period. The image showcased on billboards and murals even served as a platform for the residents to express their support to the Qatari leadership.
Other local artists also took to the canvas and creative platforms their strong feelings towards the blockade. Various arts and culture institutions in the country rendered full support to the movement that sprang out of the innate love of Qatar's people to express for its leaders.
"Throughout history, art has always been a language of anti-oppression, reacting against injustice and the status quo. It is the voice of those it represents, allowing them to be seen and heard. What happened during the blockade, and continues to happen, was that Qatar's art scene became a vehicle for thought and reflection. It engaged its audiences, shifting boundaries and humanising a politically charged topic. Most importantly, it brought people together," Fire Station Director Khalifa al Obaidly told Qatar Tribune in an interview.
"Within just a few days, the Tamim Al Majd drawing spread throughout the country because it spoke to everyone living in Qatar. It didn't matter whether you are a Qatari or an expatriate, because at the core of it, was a commitment towards this nation and all the values it represents. This is precisely why we, at Qatar Museums, have been working to foster a spirit of creativity and artistic expression. We truly believe that art and culture can generate a spirit of national participation. This enables Qatar and its people to find their voice in the world, all the while nurturing a global understanding of who we are and everything that we stand for," Obaidly added.
Qatar Museum's '100 days of blockade' unveiled on the fa?§ade of Doha Fire Station was among the most notable initiatives that brings to the fore the sentiments of the nation towards the siege. It featured five emotive artworks of local artists and was well-received by the residents.
Obaidly remarked,"The powerful artworks showcased on the fa?§ade of the Fire Station building reflect each artists' personal take on the blockade. The medium of choice was graffiti, an eye-catching form of art that has always been linked to activism and powerful statements that are easily accessible by the public. The initiative created a sense of community, showing that the people of Qatar are in solidarity and that solidarity will make them strong in the face of any injustice. What is also important to mention is that the initiative reaffirmed that Qatar is a spirited and dynamic arts hub, with a creative community that is very much engaged and active."
On local artists making use of their skills as tools to impart an important message about Qatar, Obaidly imparted the following message,"The blockade is one chapter of a long history that we are writing every day. As His Highness The Amir once said, 'A citizen must ask himself from time to time, what did I give for my country and my community?' Our youth represent our country and we look towards them to make the best of the opportunities presented to them, and to contribute to the development of their country, all the while showing that the people of Qatar are committed to their nation."
Dimitrje Bugarski, one of the five local artists featured in Qatar Museum's '100 days of blockade', said he was inspired by the people's reaction and the strong relationship between the leaders of Qatar and the people that was highlighted by the siege. His blockade-inspired art is the watchtower at the Doha Fire Station.
"As art is universal language, it helped people understand each other more closely and in a more innocent way. It gives certain hope and positive push to the society in a humane way as a motivating medium," Dimitrje said.
"The inspiration came from how I saw people's reaction and relation between the nation and His Highness the Amir. It is very rare to see such support someone has among people as well as the dignified handling of this situation by the ruling body. There was a lot of understanding and tolerance which is very important to keep the situation under control and go through it peacefully. That is why I painted the faces of the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim and HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad with all the positive words applied on their outfit which was result of this blockade," the artist remarked.
As the blockade imposed on Qatar marked one year, he stressed the important role of local artists in such trying times. He also urged fellow local artists to make good use of art as their platform to express their opinions and sentiments.
"My message to my fellow local artists is just to follow their instinct and their heart. If anyone feels to show their opinion or feelings through art do it in such a way that is creative, striking but respectful," he added.
Ali al Kuwari, who also contributed to the artworks for '100 days of Blockade', underlined that it is the role of artists to reflect their culture and background through their works. He said that artists must not forget their roots.
"Art is a language that can be understood by all no matter who they are which makes it a very powerful tool, since it plays a role in delivering messages. We saw that come to life during the blockade as people reacted very positively to the pieces inspired by the situation. The idea behind my piece was that whoever lives in Qatar no matter what religion, culture, or background, stood together to protect this country and express their love. It was something that really moved me, because everyone, Qataris and expats, stood together like a protective wall. It was very inspirational," Ali said about his siege-inspired work. He mentioned that he is working on another project that talk about the blockade.
Qatari political artoonist Ghada al Khater recently presented to the public her work titled 'Blockade: Energy Drink' which presents a humorous take on how the blockade on Qatar motivated the country to speed up its efforts towards achieving its National Vision 2030. She said the artwork is symbolic of how Qatar flourished amidst the situation.
"It became a way for Qatari artists to showcase their talents and show who they are and their country. It shows the diversity of Qatar in many ways," Ghada said on the role played by local artists since the blockade.