Doha: The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is hosting a series of events, including school activities, art workshops, cultural excursions, webinars, and art competitions for the community to mark “Doha, Capital of Culture in the Islamic World” hosted by Qatar throughout 2021.
Salem Abdulla Al Aswad, Deputy Director of MIA, and Director of Learning and Outreach, Qatar Museums, said, “In celebration of Doha being named the Capital of Culture in the Islamic World for 2021, we have organised an extensive programme of activities to celebrate Islamic heritage and to introduce the splendor of Islamic culture and its history to the wider community.”
“Choosing Doha as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic World is in line with Qatar Museums’ efforts to support Qatar in promoting Islamic heritage through inspiring cultural experiences delivered through a growing network of museums, archaeological and heritage sites, festivals, public artworks, and various educational programme.”
Planned programming includes Ektashif Turkey, a seven-day educational trip during which Qatari artists will delve into Islamic arts through workshops and excursions, exploring Istanbul and its historical sites. Meanwhile, the MIA ambassadors programme is designed to encourage high school students to explore the museum and collaborate during special exhibitions and events. The programme highlights the role of the museum in preserving cultural heritage.
MIA will also run the Modern Islamic Art in Qatar Photography competition, inviting entrants to discover the influence the Islamic spirit has on various aspects of life in Qatar. In addition, MIA will host various activities, including educational workshops on Arabic calligraphy and lectures to promote Qatar Museums’ role in nurturing a thriving cultural landscape in Qatar. An Arabic poetry competition for schools will run from September through December, inviting students to participate in the competition, writing and reciting either classical or Nabati poetry.
Additionally, MIA will host an online lecture on the Art of Islamic Architecture. The lecture will explore the essential elements of Islamic design, exploring display pieces, materials used, and MIA’s architecture.
