Building a Vision

Ammar Khaled Alqamash. Anaj. Artist's collection

Curated by Sheikha Maryam Al-Thani and Dr. Giles Matthew Hudson

Qatar is at a pivotal moment in its history, with rapid development influencing all aspects of life in the run up to the 2022 World Cup and fulfilment of the National Vision 2030. This transformation offers unprecedented creative opportunities for photographers not only to record, but also to contribute towards the reshaping of the visual identity of the country.

"Building a Vision" showcases the work of contemporary photographers based in Qatar, exchange photography commissioned by Qatar Museums, and related works from the historic collections. The exhibition offers an introduction to Qatar as a people and a place, provides a platform for emerging photographers, and brings some of the treasures of the collections to a new audience.

Over 200 photographers of 40 different nationalities contributed to the open call on which the exhibition is based. Reflecting all social backgrounds, their work demonstrates the diversity and strength of the photographic community in Qatar. The historic photographs, which Qatar Museums is exhibiting outside the country for the first time, speak to the importance of photography as a means of cross-cultural communication, as well as to other themes of contemporary relevance.

Photography in Qatar is still at an early stage in its history. Qatar Museums is proud to support its progress through "Building a Vision" and other initiatives in the future.