Seven Qatari Artists Interpret Uzbekistan's Remarkable Cultural Heritage In A New Exhibition At MIA

DOHA: Qatar Museums yesterday opened Ektashif: Uzbekistan at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), presenting works by seven Qatari artists inspired by their travels through Uzbekistan's historic cities and their engagement with the country's living artistic traditions. Organised by MIA in collaboration with Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the exhibition is on view through November 24.

Developed following the artists' travels through Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, the works draw on Timurid architectural details, geometric brickwork, ceramic traditions, ikat textiles, and the country's continuing craft practices. Ektashif: Uzbekistan offers a layered view of Uzbekistan as both a historic centre of Islamic art and a continuing source of creative inspiration.

The featured artists are Aisha Al Muhannadi, Abdulla Al Fakhroo, Lina Al Aali, Maryam Abel, Ameena Al Boinin, The Nourah, and Hameed Al Qahtani. Bringing together distinct artistic approaches and materials, the exhibition invites audiences to explore Uzbekistan's history and culture through seven individual perspectives.

Director of the Museum of Islamic Art Shaika Al-Nassr said,“Ektashif: Uzbekistan celebrates the creative possibilities that emerge through cultural and artistic exchange, reflecting the individual voices of seven Qatari artists, each responding in different ways to Uzbekistan's incomparable architecture, craftsmanship, and living traditions. Presented at MIA, the exhibition invites visitors to consider how the artistic heritage of the Islamic world continues to inspire new forms of expression.”

Opening concurrently at MIA, Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion presents the most comprehensive survey of Uzbekistan's heritage in three decades. Featuring 146 objects from MIA and 13 institutions across Uzbekistan, the exhibition explores more than 3,000 years of artistic and cultural achievement through manuscripts, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, architectural fragments, and monumental works.

Both exhibitions are included in general admission to MIA and are open to visitors during the museum's regular hours. A public programme will accompany Ektashif: Uzbekistan throughout its run, with details on a panel discussion to follow.

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