Qatar in Colour |
T
he magnificent structure dominates the skyline,
like a desert rose bursting from the surrounding
landscape. At its heart sits the restored historic palace of
Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani.
Together, they are an image of modernity in perfect
harmony with the past. The new NMoQ is a series of
intersecting disks framed by the ancient arches of the old
palace, enthralling architects and visitors alike.
Outside the architectural masterpieces designed by Jean
Nouvel, fountains send dazzling jets of water soaring into
the sunshine.
Inside, the museum takes the form of a long, winding
path telling the story through evocative aromas,
archaeological artefacts, commissioned artworks,
monumentally-scaled art films, and more.
Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami, and
many others. The ceremony was also attended by former
President of the French Republic Nicolas Sarkozy,
the Mayor of Rome Virginia Raggi, and personal
representatives of His Highness the Amir.
Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin
Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums,
says: “The opening of the National Museum of Qatar
is a source of immense pride for our country, and an
exceptional moment for engaging with people from
around the world.
“The extraordinary schedule of inaugural activities we
organised to celebrate the opening under the Qatar
Creates umbrella drew together outstanding artists,
Together, the 11 permanent galleries take visitors on
a journey from the formation of the Qatar peninsula
millions of years ago to the nation’s exciting and diverse
present. Giving voice to its rich heritage and culture and
expressing the aspirations of its people, the NMoQ will
serve as a hub for discovery, creativity, and community
engagement, educating a new generation and advancing
Qatar’s cultural vision on the global stage.
The spectacular structure embraces as its centrepiece the
restored historic palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim
Al Thani (1880-1957), son of the founder of modern
Qatar. This is a building that in former times was both
the home of the royal family and seat of the government,
and subsequently the site of Qatar’s original national
museum. The historic palace is now the culminating
exhibit in the sweeping succession of gallery experiences.
His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al
Thani officially inaugurated the immersive new museum
at a ceremony attended by heads of state, dignitaries, and
museum leaders from around the world.
Several well-known figures from different fields attended
the opening, including British designer Victoria Beckham
and supermodel Naomi Campbell, Portuguese football
coach José Mourinho, US film director John Bailey,
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