Christto & Andrew. Era without era. 2012. Qatar Museums Collection
Curated by Dr. Bahaa Abudaya
States of Transformation sheds light on the contemporary art scene of Qatar through more than 100 artworks by 46 artists. The exhibition is organised in three thematic sections which reflect in different ways the individual perspectives of the artists on the changing cultural and physical identity of the society, and the implications of sudden change on the way people think and how the community as a whole sees itself.
A starting point for the exhibition is the concept of the traditional and material structures on which the society builds its foundations. As the culture stabilises and matures, the society starts to look beyond tradition towards more experimental and contemporary possibilities. The overwhelming prevalence of technological and scientific developments, integrated into our daily lives, pushes individuals towards exploring artistic creativity and innovation.
This exhibition is a reflection on the reality of life in the Middle East generally, and Qatar in particular. As a result of its economic boom, the State of Qatar has witnessed over the last two decades rapid changes in its social fabric and built environment. Creative minds have been active players in these developments, with new ideas and experimental approaches demonstrating that the contemporary is not limited to a specific location, but like creativity, is beyond borders.