Q Life Magazine Q Magazine June 2019 | Page 11

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, 11