Executive Director of Qatar America Institute for Culture Fatima Al Dosari said that the Qatar – USA 2021 program included a hybrid of virtual and live events that included exhibitions and installation works by Qatari and American artists, concerts, film and fashion shows in both countries, sporting events, etc.
She added that among the events that were organized was the “Calligrafitti” event, which continued throughout 2021. The event consisted of street art installations in a number of cities that combined Arabic and calligraphy. Additionally in Spring of 2021, chefs from both countries exchanged dessert recipes and went head-to-head to make traditional sweets from Qatar and the US. There was also the Pearls of Wonders exhibition, a residency at the Ferrer Art Gallery and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art in Washington, D.C., and an exhibition of exceptional textiles from the collection of the Museum of Islamic Art in Washington in fall 2021, in addition to outdoor film screenings about cultural exchange in the desert in fall 2021, as well as a car race in the desert in spring/fall 2021, the Made in Qatar cinematic event in November 2021. The program was held across the United States throughout 2021.
She explained that during the two countries celebrations of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between them, the institute organized many events despite the COVID-19 restrictions. The Years of Culture, Qatar – USA 2021 focused on the friendly diplomatic relations that have linked the two countries since 1972.
Al Dosari revealed the most important activities that the institute will organize during the upcoming period, saying that the institutes activities are usually concentrated during March and October, which coincides with the season of exhibitions and events. It is expected that the upcoming event will take place during October, an exhibition focusing on the intersection between technology and the arts.
She added that the exhibition, which will be inaugurated in October, will highlight the multifaceted relationship between technology and the arts. Qatar Academy for Culture and Arts upcoming shows will be organized in collaboration with Qatari and US cultural partners, including Qatar Museums and Virginia Commonwealth University of the Arts in Qatar, and include two new contemporary art galleries and an open call for artists to showcase their careers.
Regarding Qatars organization of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Executive Director of Qatar America Institute for Culture Fatima Al Dosari considered that the great legacy left by Qatars organization of the 2022 World Cup will leave a great impact that extends for many decades. This was reflected in the great demand for the institute during the past eight months that followed the completion of the tournament. There was a great demand for inquiries about Qatar, its civilization, and its heritage. Through the institute, we were able to achieve a wide spread of Arab and American visitors who were interested in learning about Qatar after the great success it achieved in the World Cup, the positive image conveyed by the international media about the country, and the warm and generous reception of visitors.
She pointed to the great demand for the Institute during the World Cup events, as the Institute hosted football fans through special events. The Institute was keen to showcase the Qatari, Arab, and Islamic heritage during those events, and it has already succeeded in transmitting the Qatari heritage, through exhibits, pictures and documentaries, Qatari cuisine, clothes, and perfumes.
Qatar America Institute for Culture is an independent, non-profit organization that creates and implements programs and research that highlight all forms of art and culture in society. The institute sponsors artistic expression and promotes cultural dialogue from the United States, the State of Qatar, and the Arab and Islamic world.
It is also considered an essential institute for bringing together artists, museum curators, storytellers, creators, scholars, and academics and connecting them to a global network extending from its headquarters in Washington, D.C. to all parts of the world. The Institute provides interactive experiences in an inclusive environment to celebrate and appreciate art and culture through art exhibitions, educational programs, scientific research, and cultural partnerships.
Source: Qatar News Agency