Through a display of its permanent collection of modern and contemporary art, Resolutions: Celebrating 15 years of Mathaf revisits the museum’s primary vision. It explores the legacy of Mathaf by showcasing the evolution of its exhibition and research practices in addition to its history of collaborations. With the revival of institutional memory, Mathaf continues to foster decolonial discussions surrounding the visual identity of the Arab world in a global context. The anniversary exhibition presents diverse regional narratives through a dynamic approach while reflecting upon Mathaf's future.
Infrastructure: Traces of a Legacy
Curated by Fatima Mostafawi
This section presents Mathaf as a complex case study. With the political turmoil marking parts of the Arab world during the 1990s, Doha emerged as an artistic hub, also thanks to the efforts of artist and collector Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani. Much of Mathaf's early collection emerged from artistic experiments at Sheikh Hassan’s initial exhibition space and residency, which left behind a rich visual legacy as well as a lasting impact on numerous artist careers. The section also examines Al Thani's multifaceted relationships, in his role as both fellow artist and as patron. It includes photographs, letters and video interviews from a period preceding what is now known as Mathaf.
Mathaf as Institutional Memory: An Exhibition History
Curated by Hadeel Al-Kohaji
Since its inception, Mathaf has hosted a kaleidoscopic range of museum exhibitions. This section will highlight this history by means of an elaborate timeline that includes visuals and backstage documents. The aim is to foster a sense of institutional memory that also values graphic design, publications, international partnerships and the many solo exhibitions that have materialised over the years.
Education: Art as Knowledge Creation
Curated by Noora Abdulmajeed
This section explores the significance of knowledge circulation, emphasising the foundational role of art education in both its formal and informal contexts. The expanded role of art education is key to modern and contemporary visual culture in the Arab world and has often cultivated revolutionary possibilities across the artistic landscape. Educational frameworks range from academia to lifelong friendships and mentorships, to processes of decolonisation in newly independent nations.
Representation and the Writing of History
Curated by Arthur Debsi
In the context of post-independence, artists across West Asia and North Africa experimented with a shared visual language that helped define the idea of ‘Arab identity’. This section argues that art and literature from this time clearly reflected a commitment to a regional momentum and a Pan-Arab ideology, also evident in the continuous resistance against the occupation of Palestine.
