Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), inaugurated the Al Azzm sculpture which pays tribute to the strength of local women.

Located in Education City and created by His Excellency (HE) Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani, Advisor of Cultural Affairs at QF, Al Azzm symbolises the determination of local women, showing them walking against the wind, arms crossed, with their abayas rippling behind them.

While the sculpture depicts the strength and solidarity of women, it also embodies Qatari culture and traditions and it reflects the determination of the nation in overcoming its own challenges. The choice of using three women also signifies the three focus areas of QF, which are science and research, education and community development.

Speaking on his inspiration for the artwork, HE Sheikh Hassan said: “Al Azzm symbolises the journey of Qatar Foundation, from its establishment in 1995 to the present day, symbolising resolve and willpower, reflecting the story of the organisation.

“Art is connected to Qatar Foundation, with creative works decorating every hall and entrance, transforming buildings into art pieces. This focus on art, including statues within Education City, adds to the organisation’s beautiful appeal and symbolises its elegance.”

Other pieces created by HE Sheikh Hassan and displayed in Education City include The Door to The Future, which students from QF’s higher education institutes pass through every year at Convocation – a traditional, pivotal moment symbolising the culmination of their academic journey at QF.

The Malwiya Sculpture, meanwhile, is based on an impression of a currency called Tawila Al-Hasa, named after the town it was minted in, which was used between the 15th and 18th centuries in the Gulf region and neighbouring countries linked by trade relations, including India.

Al Azzm, which was designed to celebrate the 25th anniversary of QF, is located near the 2015 building (QF Headquarters). All of HE Sheikh Hassan’s designs in Education City are part of the QF Art Walks Tour, which features different forms of artwork from local and international artists.

Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation (QF), also attended the event, which included the unveiling of the official plaque offering insight into the sculpture and artist, as well as a series of performances and speeches.

GO: Visit www.qf.org.qa/education/education-city for more information.