An exhibition on “The language of water and stone of Qatari islands,” by Qatari artist Abdul Rahman al-Mutawa was inaugurated yesterday by Katara general manager Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti.
“This exhibition covers an important part of our heritage, namely the Qatari maritime tradition passed on from generation to generation, especially to enlighten the Qatari youth,” Dr al-Sulaiti said.
The exhibition, at Building 22 in Katara, the Cultural Village, features more than 45 fine art panels, comprising video art, art in empty spaces, sculpture and printing (lithography).
Artist al-Mutawa recalled that his relationship with the sea began from his childhood.
“I was passionate about the sea and old tales about the sea as told by my ancestors in the past centuries, whether they were about earning a livelihood or about working as pearl divers.
“It was a beautiful experience in my life, as I used to go with my brothers and my relatives for fishing and fun,” he said.
Al-Mutawa started preparing for the exhibition in January 2013. He did a lot of research to enrich his paintings. He also undertook cruises on a weekly basis to explore life in the sea. The artist also drew inspiration from old plays and films that dealt with Qatar’s maritime heritage.
“The book Pearl Diving issued by Katara was one of my important sources, including historical information on the maritime heritage and the life of sailors,” al-Mutawa said.
Dr al-Sulaiti said Katara is dedicated to be a forum for creators and intellectuals, as it contributes to the dissemination of cultural awareness by promoting and highlighting the creative energies of Qatar, and the development of the art and cultural climate in Qatar involving artists in the development process.
“Work on the dissemination of culture in the broadest and comprehensive sense among the society and its various institutions is one of Katara’s strategies. We shall encourage intellectuals and artists, and motivate them to participate and contribute effectively in the diverse cultural events and thereby promote dialogue and openness between cultures of the world,” he added.
The exhibition is open until December 29. The timing is from 10am to 10pm.