The majority of the works in the exhibition came from the collection of Mathaf, with around 160 pieces on show in total, portraying the Arab world and inviting visitors to observe and reflect on their surroundings. Curated by Abdellah Karroum and Fatma Mostafawi, the exhibition included works that ranged from René Magritte to Wael Shawky and Shirin Neshat, spanning nearly two centuries of artistic production across three continents.
Looking at the World Around You: Contemporary Works from Qatar Museums
Past Exhibition
Organised by Fundación Banco Santander and Qatar Museums, the exhibition featured selected works from the collections of Qatar Museums in celebration of modern and contemporary art, illustrating the Arab world’s perspective on the international art scene.
Abdellah Karroum discusses Qatar Museums’ first exhibition in Spain, Looking at the World Around You.
You May Also Like
Publications
Modern Art
Explore modern and contemporary art books, many featuring important Arab artists associated with Qatar Museums.
Watch
In Conversation: Shirin Neshat
An interview with the world-renowned visual artist, whose photographs and films offer a glimpse of cultural, religious and political realities.
Read
Wael Shawky in Conversation with Abdellah Karroum
Join artist Wael Shawky in conversation with curator Abdellah Karroum as they delve into the making of Cabaret Crusades and Al Araba Al Madfuna.
Read
Close to My Soul: The Story of Modern and Contemporary Qatari Art
Read this interview with Fatima Mostafawi, curator of Qatar: Close to My Soul.
Mathaf Encyclopedia
Explore the Mathaf Encyclopedia of Modern and Contemporary Arab Art. Discover artist biographies, essays, and scholarly insights.