QM to participate in 31st Doha International Book Fair

In a celebration of artistic and literary culture, Qatar Museums (QM) is set to participate in the 31st Doha International Book Fair (DIBF), running from January 13 to 22, 2022, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), with a dedicated booth, book discussions and interactive workshops.

Adding to its portfolio of award-winning publications and unique art catalogues, the Qatar Museums booth at this year’s fair will host a wide selection of new titles. The publications offers a literary exploration of Qatari culture and heritage, history, archaeology, orientalism, modern and Islamic art, as well as sports and children’s stories.

Recently released titles include: A Falcon’s Eye: Tribute to Sheikh Saoud Al Thani, a celebration of the late Sheikh Saoud Al Thani; Jeff Koons: Lost In America, an autobiographical look at Koons’ long and, at times, controversial career; Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, an in-depth look at the UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site; Farid Belkahia: Pour une autre modernité / For a New Modernity; a major survey of Moroccan artist Belkahia’s body of work; Christian Dior, an elegant catalogue with over 80 of the House of Dior’s finest haute couture designs; M. F. Husain: Horses of the Sun, a look at a central figure in Indian modern art and the most represented artist in Mathaf’s collection; and the beautiful National Museum of Qatar’s book, a masterpiece inspired by the iconic shape of the desert rose.

As part of an in-depth literary discussion, the Book Fair will host a symposium on “Museums and the Preservation of Human Heritage – Role and Initiatives” with the attendance of guests from Dadu, Children’s Museum of Qatar, 321 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the National Museum of Qatar, with a lively dialogue on key updates and opening plans of upcoming museums in the country. Furthermore, there will be a discussion on  Sajjil: A Century of Modern Art, with the presence of guests from Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art under the activities of the Cultural Salon.”

Randa Takieddine, Director of QM Publishing, noted: “Our participation at Doha’s premier literary fair underlines Qatar Museums’ commitment to the development of our creative communities. Much like the visual arts found in a museum, books have the power to capture collective imagination and knowledge, and expand our inherent understanding of the world, cultures and the people around us. We look forward to connecting with art, history and local heritage enthusiasts over the coming days to share how our unique publications can carry on the magic and experience of visiting the museum. ”

An engaging series of workshops for the youngest fair visitors will round off the programme, from reading stories on art, sports, and preserving nature with the Learning and Outreach Department; an interactive story time with the Museum of Islamic Art’s (MIA) famous storyteller Ehab to an Arabic calligraphy workshop; a hands-on class on ‘making a book jacket’ using mixed media art techniques; and a painting workshop with the artist Ismail Azzam on the unique techniques of drawing with charcoal.

Organised under the supervision of the Qatar Cultural and Heritage Events Center of the Ministry of Culture and Sports, the 2022 Doha International Book Fair is expected to draw an unprecedented number of global publishers and countries in participation.