(MENAFN- The Peninsula) sanaullah ataullah |
The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: Ahed Alkhatib, an architect with a passion for sketching, has released a new book titled“Sketching Qatar Architecture.” The artist's book showcases 85 meticulously crafted sketches that portray the dynamic architectural landscape of Qatar.
With each page, readers are invited to explore not only Alkhatib's remarkable observational and sketching skills but also Qatar's quest for an architectural style that embodies its rich history, technological advancements, and cultural spirit. From contemporary landmarks like Al Thumama Stadium to beloved historic sites such as the Barzan Tower, the book provides an artistic rendition of Qatar's architectural evolution using nothing more than a permanent ink pen and sheets of paper.
Asked about his inspiration, Alkhatib told The Peninsula that the book not only documents his artistic journey but also encapsulates a significant part of his life.
After moving to Doha, he spent a decade immersing himself in the city, creating memories, forming relationships, and establishing a deep connection with his surroundings.
In 2017, he purchased his first sketchbook dedicated to drawing Qatar's architecture and began capturing quick sketches that took no more than 15 minutes.
Encouraged by the positive response on his Instagram account, which quickly gained 1,000 followers, Alkhatib transitioned to a larger format in 2019, devoting up to two hours per sketch. Through his sketches, he discovered the ability to identify and narrate stories, including his own evolving relationship with Doha.
Artist Ahed Alkhatib
“As an architect, I realized that through looking and sketching buildings I can identify and narrate many stories, also those about my evolving relationship with Doha,” he said.
The book is available at the gift shops of the National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art, and at the IN-Q online store.
“Sketching Qatar Architecture” focuses on the architectural design of buildings as its primary area of interest, the author explained. Before creating each sketch, Alkhatib spends time observing his subjects from different angles, analysing the context, and exploring elements such as light, shadows, and forms.
Through his continuous practice, he develops an“architectural memory” and enhances his eye-hand coordination.
“By using irremovable ink pens, I am forced to keep all the lines – from the beginning till the end – treating all the strokes as equally important, keeping them in layers above each other, until the final composition is revealed. Consequently, there are no mistakes or wrong lines in the drawing – all of them remain fundamental parts of the work which eventually discloses the sketching process.”
The architect stressed that the book serves as an invitation to architects, architecture enthusiasts, and aspiring architects, urging them to find inspiration in his work and embark on their own architectural sketching journey. It encourages readers to contemplate the remarkably diverse architectural landscape of Qatar and marvel at the urban transformation that has taken place within a relatively short period.
The first edition of“Sketching Qatar Architecture” was introduced during the 31st edition of the Doha International Book Fair, held in January last year. This publication marks Alkhatib's debut as an author, but he plans to continue his artistic exploration of architecture by publishing more art books in the future, showcasing the architectural wonders of other cities worldwide.
After Graduating from Damascus University in 2009, Alkhatib moved to Qatar in 2010.