Qatar Museum and Fire Station Artist in Residence in association with Coastal Qatar has announced a design competition titled “Qatar Al Fann” or “Qatar Art” with the objective to transform functional products that the general public interact with, to functional art like landscape furniture, carpets, rugs, etc. designed by the local artists, embodying the rich Qatari culture and heritage.

“Qatar is on the threshold of hosting the most prestigious and exciting global sporting event, the FIFA 2022 football world cup. The event will without doubt, provide Qatar an unprecedented level of international exposure and the opportunity to showcase its rich Arab cultural and heritage to the entire world” said Mr. Khalifa Al Obaidli, Director of Artist in Residence ‘Fire Station’.

“Historically art has thrived only with the support of patrons. We are extremely happy to note that government bodies like Ashghal, Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Lusail Development, Msheireb, Awqaf etc. have expressed their eagerness to incorporate the selected designs in their upcoming projects. Qatar could probably be the only country where the government agencies have come forward to promote the functional art designed by the local artists” he further added.

Mr. Khalifa Al Obaidly continued “To maximize the exposure of the Qatari heritage and artists, opportunities needs to be created for fans and visitors to interact with art rather than art being confined within the walls of art galleries and museum”

A jury would be appointed to judge and shortlist designs for incorporation in to a cobranded design library with the details of the artist, inspiration for the design etc. which could be used by architects and designers for their projects.

Coastal Qatar, a local company which has several Made in Qatar initiatives under its belt will organize the production of the selected products in Qatar through technology partnership with experts or manufacture overseas through selected sources as required and deliver to the projects.

“Coastal Qatar as a local company has always strived to embody the essence and pride of Qatari products. We are very proud of our local manufacturing initiatives like lamp posts, crash barriers etc. and more notably the local manufacture of spectator seats for six of the FIFA 2022 stadiums. We aim to showcase Qatari products on the global stage as world class products and we are confident of delivering the products designed by the local artists.” stated Nishad Azeem, Group CEO of Coastal.

The products could be utilized in public spaces, hotels, offices, parks, mosques etc. both locally and projects across the world.  The contest aims to provide an unequable platform and mediums of expression for the local artists to showcase their creativity and talent and at the same time provide exposure to a global audience and revenue streams.

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