The year was 2022 and the World Cup, an event 12 years in the making, finally arrived. Qatar was ready to welcome the world on behalf of the region. As the world arrived for a landmark competition, another event filled the air, an art competition. One that spread far and wide to a neighbouring land.&nbsp;

Creative talents from all across the region showcased their support through beautiful masterpieces. Each an expression of joy, excitement and anticipation. For a lucky few, their artwork earned a reward in kind and their efforts are now displayed for all to admire.&nbsp;

The result is a testament to the unity and comradery shared between nations. It also marked the beginning of an amazing artistic journey for all involved. This is one of many engaging exhibitions and workshops presented by MIA, which aims to foster connections with emerging artists.

If you&rsquo;ve enjoyed this story. We have thousands more to share.&nbsp; 
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Pink Triangle

Art of stories. Every piece has a story to tell.

What memories from 2022 continue to captivate your thoughts?

AN ARABIC FINGERPRINT ON WC22

Water fountains have always held enchantment beyond their simple appearance. They dazzle in the sunlight, their waters gleam like precious diamonds. Legends whispered of their mystical ability to grant wishes, weaving tales that captivated hearts for ages. Throughout centuries, fountains were places where memories blossomed.

Yet, what truly set a fountain apart was the gem that wore its crown - the fountainhead. Crafted from a single piece of bronze, it took the form of a graceful female deer known as the Doha Hind. Positioned at the top, water gracefully spouted from its mouth, a common sight across Granada, Cordoba and Umayyad Spain.

This exquisite decoration, which is now part of MIA&rsquo;s permanent collection, presented an aura of grace upon the fountain, captivating all who witnessed it. As water flowed from the Hind&rsquo;s mouth, it seemed to carry whispers of ancient tales and dreams, making the fountain a cherished jewel of the land.

If you&rsquo;ve enjoyed this story. We have thousands more to share.&nbsp; 
Visit us at the Museum of Islamic Art.

Yellow Triangle

(DOHA HIND)

FOUNTAIN HEAD

FOUNTAIN HEAD (DOHA HIND)

Once upon a time, a group of well-known artists from across Afghanistan embarked on a journey. They travelled over the Arabian Sea and found their way to the Museum of Islamic Art. Here, they uncovered new inspiration.&nbsp;

As they explored the museum, marvelling at countless artefacts, a few items spoke to their hearts in a special way. These pieces sparked unique partnerships among the artists. A beaded necklace inspired a potter and a woodworker to craft a beautifully pierced ceramic bowl. An underglaze-painted bowl ignited creativity between a calligrapher and a jeweller, resulting in a stunning pendant. Even a group of craftsmen specialising in jewellery, wood and metal were inspired by gemstone bracelets to create an exquisite pen box.

A single journey resulted in breath-taking art that is admired by so many. This tale reminds us that inspiration surrounds us everywhere. Sometimes, all we need to do is pay attention to the wonders that unfold before our eyes. At the Museum of Islamic Art library you can see the pieces, hold them and learn more about their artistic journeys through numerous books at the MIA library.

If you&rsquo;ve enjoyed this story. We have thousands more to share.&nbsp; 
Visit us at the Museum of Islamic Art.

Orange Triangle

How did a journey across the seas open a portal of inspiration?