Mathaf to host renowned Iraqi artist

DOHA: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art will host a series of workshops delivered by established Iraqi artist Salim Matkhour, who will introduce emerging talents, art teachers and university students to the techniques of watercolour painting.

The three-hour workshops, which will be conducted in Arabic, will be held daily from September 23 to September 27 from 4pm to 7pm at the Manara learning space inside the museum.

Based in Qatar since 1999, Salim Mathkour is an established figure in the country’s creative community and has previously exhibited in a number of locations in Qatar and beyond. Although his work appears to be inspired by daily life, the scenes are created as optimistic social and urban landscapes in opposition to the reality of conflicts that made him choose exile from his hometown of Baghdad. Salim has conducted several workshops in the past, where he introduced participants to his dream-like artistic style, evident by his distinguished techniques and use of texture and colors.

Maryam Al Attiya, Head of Art Programs Section at Mathaf, said: “Mathaf aspires to become a resource that introduces visitors to Arab artists and celebrates their contributions to the global art world. Thus, educational programmes are at the core of our community engagement initiatives. We are incredibly proud to host Salim Matkhour, an artist known for his unique style and poignant paintings.”

Salim Matkhour during his work.

Since its launch, the Artist Encounters programme has been incredibly successful with emerging artists such as Fahad Al Maadheed and Eman Al Hidous leading sessions that reflect their working styles and creative processes.

The upcoming fall season is set to be a busy one for Mathaf. The museum has recently announced a series of ground-breaking exhibitions that shed light on key chapters of Arab modern art. Revolution Generation, curated by Abdellah Karroum, will introduce artists as vital actors of social change since the 50s when it opens on October 17.

In parallel, Mathaf will also present an exhibition by Mounira Al Solh, “I strongly believe in our right to be frivolous,” curated by Hendrik Folkerts and Laura Barlow. In the series of drawings, the exhibition collects personal histories and experiences that emerge from the humanitarian and political crises in Syria and the Middle East.

Two Focus exhibitions will also be on view at the same time, continuing the in-depth display series dedicated to historical artists from the museum’s Collection. Fateh Al Moudarres: Colour, Extensity and Sense, guest curated by Sara Raza and JassimZaini: Representation and Abstraction, curated by Fatma Mostafawi will introduce visitors to the two artists’ creative vision and the contexts that shaped their works.

Those interested to attend Artist Encounters may register through: https://form.jotform.me/82441159475461