Tribune News Network
Doha
A magnificent sculpture of a dugong (sea cow) has been unveiled in Doha Corniche.
The sculpture is an ode to Qatar's marine life and is one among the several artworks that will be peppered across the country as it turns into an open museum for the FIFA World Cup 2022. The artworks — a combination of sculptures, paintings and art installations of varying sizes and shapes — are designed to evoke a multitude of emotions; surprise and delight are guaranteed as the artworks are located in some of the most unexpected public spaces.
Visitors can also expect them in stadiums, airports, streets, shopping malls, college corridors and basically anywhere that draws a crowd.
A host of Qatari institutions, led by Qatar Museums, is spearheading this visual treat that reflects the rich culture of Qatar as well as its cultural diversity and international aspiration in the realm of international arts.
Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Qatar Museums Authority (QMA) HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani has said that public art was one of the most prominent aspects of Qatar’s cultural pursuits. She affirmed that Qatar Museums’ commitment to public art is evident throughout the country, expressing her hope that the Qatari community will welcome these works, which contribute to enriching the experiences of millions of visitors who are expected to be received in Doha this year.
Several artworks and sculptures are currently on display at the Museum of Islamic Arts (MIA) Park, Hamad International Airport, Qatar Creative Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (M7), Qatar National Museum, Hamad International Airport, Katara Cultural Village, Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC) and Sidra Medicine.
Qatar Museums recently added 40 artworks, bringing the public art collection to more than 100 artworks made by more than 60 artists from Qatar, the Middle East and North Africa and around the world.