Artists highlight role of residency programmes

Doha, Qatar: On the occasion of World Art Day, celebrated annually on April 15, Qatari visual artists have lauded the role of Qatar Museums and its Fi...

Doha, Qatar: On the occasion of World Art Day, celebrated annually on April 15, Qatari visual artists have lauded the role of Qatar Museums and its Fire Station: Artist in Residence in nurturing the cultural, creative, and artistic landscape in visual arts, solidifying Qatar’s position as a leading destination for creativity and a regional hub for culture and arts through its artist residency programmes in its studios in Doha, International City of Arts in Paris, France, and International Studio & Curatorial Program in New York, USA.

Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Director of Fire Station: Artist in Residence, Khalifa Ahmed Al Obaidly emphasised that World Art Day represents a vital opportunity to highlight the importance of art as a tool for cultural expression, dialogue between civilisations, and a celebration of human creativity. He highlighted the profound impact of art on societies and the need to support artists by providing platforms for their work and fostering opportunities for dialogue and inspiration.

Al Obaidly elaborated on Fire Station: Artist in Residence’s role in providing a space for creativity through its artist residency programmes. These programmes engage the local community in Qatar through various events and opportunities, including exhibitions and public programs.

He pointed out that since its inception in 2015, Fire Station’s artist residency programme has consistently provided a supportive and stimulating environment for artists, contributing to the development of their talents and artistic expertise. It aims to expand its scope in the future and strengthen the interaction of artists with the global art scene by offering new opportunities for learning and cultural and creative exchange.

Al Obaidly stated that the artistic residency programme at Fire Station offers a range of distinguished programmes, including the pioneer artistic residency programme, the studio and international curators programme, and the art curators programme, which attracts museum curators and art exhibition organisers. Each programme aims to provide unique experiences and various development opportunities for both resident and Qatari artists.