Qatar: Close to My Soul – A Landmark Exhibition Celebrating the Nation’s Artistic Heritage

On view until 9 August

The exhibition Qatar: Close to My Soul – Art from the Collection of Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani offers an expansive and deeply poetic journey into the development of modern and contemporary Qatari art. Featuring works dating from the late 1960s to the present day, this landmark showcase sheds light on the artists, movements, and ideas that have shaped the country’s dynamic visual culture.

Available to the public until 9 August, the exhibition presents a rare and compelling overview of Qatari creativity. It highlights the evolution of artistic expression in Qatar as a reflection of the nation’s political, economic, and sociocultural transformation in the second half of the twentieth century. With a rich array of artworks from several generations, the exhibition reveals the diverse themes and artistic approaches that have defined Qatari art through the decades.

The roots of Qatar’s modern art scene trace back to the establishment of a formal education system in 1952. Art classes introduced in schools played a pivotal role in nurturing local talent. By the early 1960s, exhibitions began appearing in educational and public settings, bringing art into everyday life. These grassroots initiatives gained momentum as pioneering Qatari artists returned home after studying in neighboring Arab countries, enriching the local scene with new perspectives. Since then, Qatar’s art community has continued to grow, fostering dialogues that connect traditional cultural symbols with modern and regional artistic practices.

The exhibition is thoughtfully organized into three thematic sections:

• O’mri Qatar explores the artistic response to Qatar’s architectural heritage and natural landscapes.

• Dewdrops presents poignant depictions of Qatari society, offering insight into the country’s evolving social fabric.

• Boundless Expanse delves into abstraction and hurufiyya—an art form rooted in the creative use of Arabic letterforms.

Together, these sections provide a rich, multifaceted view of the nation’s artistic journey, enhanced by archival materials and interpretive texts that contextualize each work within Qatar’s broader cultural narrative.

The exhibition’s title and overarching narrative are drawn from the beloved 1975 poem Allah Ya O’mri Qatar, written by Abdullah Al-Hammadi and performed by Mohammed Al-Saai. Known for its heartfelt expression of love for the homeland, the poem remains a powerful cultural touchstone, resonating deeply with generations of Qataris. Its emotional resonance echoes the collecting philosophy of Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani, whose passion for preserving Qatari art forms the foundation of this exceptional collection.

Qatar: Close to My Soul is more than an exhibition—it is a tribute to the enduring spirit of a nation and its artists. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this profound celebration of Qatar’s visual legacy before it closes on 9 August