Qatari designer Hissa Al-Khuzaei
Doha, Qatar: Qatari designer Hissa Al-Khuzaei has expressed pride in showcasing Qatar’s rich cultural heritage on the global sporting stage after being selected to design Formula One driver Pierre Gasly’s helmet for the Mexico City Grand Prix as part of the Qatar, Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture.
The distinctive helmet, which blends traditional Qatari motifs with elements of Mexican culture, represents a creative fusion of art, heritage and motorsport, highlighting the growing international recognition of Qatari artistic talent.
Speaking to The Peninsula, Al-Khuzaei described the opportunity as a significant milestone in her artistic journey and a platform to introduce international audiences to Qatar’s cultural identity.
“Being selected is a moment of pride and gratitude for me. Having my work become part of such an international platform, while representing my country, is something very special,” she said.
“Much of my practice explores culture, identity, and our relationship with place, so this opportunity allowed me to express those interests in a completely new context.”
Al-Khuzaei explained that the creative process began with identifying visual connections between Qatari and Mexican traditions, particularly the movement of Mexican folkloric dancers’ skirts and the geometric patterns of traditional Qatari Sadu weaving.
The flowing movements of Mexican dance inspired ribbon-like elements across the helmet, while triangular motifs drawn from Sadu weaving introduced a distinctive Qatari identity.
“I was drawn to the movement of Mexican folkloric dancers’ skirts, particularly the way the fabric flows, curves, and creates a sense of rhythm. That inspired the flowing ribbon in the design,” she explained.
According to her, the triangular motifs carry particular significance, symbolising shelter and protection, making them especially appropriate for a racing helmet.
The design also incorporates flowing forms inspired by Qatar’s desert dunes, while maroon reinforces the connection to the country’s national identity.
Al-Khuzaei said she sought to capture the speed and excitement of Formula One racing through expressive painted strokes, balancing movement with geometric structure.
She also considered the colours of Gasly’s racing car and suit to ensure the artwork complemented his visual identity. Explaining the creative process, she said the concept evolved through research, sketches and digital variations, with careful attention to how the artwork would appear across the helmet’s curved surface.
The project also required adjustments to the scale and positioning of individual elements to preserve the original artistic vision.
“My contribution centred on the visual design, and the brief was quite open, giving me the freedom to explore my ideas,” she said.
Reflecting on the Qatar, Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture initiative, Al-Khuzaei said the collaboration demonstrated how artistic expression could bridge cultural differences and create meaningful international connections.
She expressed hope that the project would encourage greater recognition of contemporary Qatari art while inspiring emerging designers to explore opportunities beyond conventional artistic platforms.
“Our heritage provides so much inspiration, and each artist brings a different perspective to how it can be interpreted today,” she said.
Al-Khuzaei added that the experience had broadened her understanding of the possibilities available to artists, expressing hope for greater international exposure and opportunities for Qatari creative talents.
