Tribune News Network
Doha
The Years of Culture initiative has invited the public for the last chance to explore Benchellal: Monumental ‘sculpting past tomorrow’, an exhibition at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) that celebrates Moroccan-Dutch designer Mohamed Benchellal in his first solo exhibition.
Alongside the exhibition, the Years of Culture is also hosting a showcase highlighting the deep-rooted and evolving fashion trends of Qatar and Morocco and the sustainable nature of many traditional practices. On view until January 18, both are part of the Qatar-Morocco Year of Culture initiative.
Located at Gallery 13 in NMoQ, the exhibition features a new collection of couture dresses designed during Benchellal’s Artist Residency at Liwan Design Studios and Labs.The collection is inspired by Qatar’s landscapes and architectural wonders, presenting a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. His garments are crafted with a focus on slow fashion, using sustainable materials to create a perfect balance between artistry and environmental responsibility.
The exhibition highlights the designer’s meticulous techniques and innovative designs, elevating the couture dresses to monumental works of art that are placed in dialogue with Qatar’s stunning architectural backdrop.
The Benchellal: Monumental ‘sculpting past tomorrow’, exhibition offers a unique perspective on the intersection of traditional Arab design and modern couture. By blending futuristic Middle Eastern aesthetics with classic couture, his collection honours both the region’s rich heritage and its forward-thinking vision – as sensibility that inspired the accompanying Years of Culture showcase.
The Years of Culture showcase explores the historical and contemporary connections between Qatari and Moroccan cultures through fashion, with a focus on sustainable garment-making practices. Highlights include a traditional wool daffah (cloak) from the NMoQ collection, adorned with intricate hand-stitched Zari designs.
This piece demonstrates the transformation of the daffah from a practical garment into an object of cultural beauty and adornment. In addition, as part of the collaboration with M7, Qatari designer Mashael Al Naimi, founder of the Mhefhef brand, created a modern interpretation of the Bisht. Her creation—a handwoven Tusar silk abaya inspired by the architectural elegance of Morocco’s Kasbah Gate—reimagines the Bisht with contemporary sophistication while paying homage to its heritage.
Entry is free with the museum’s general admission. Tickets can be reserved in advance via the Qatar Museums website.
