To commemorate its 15th anniversary, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art has unveiled two major exhibitions that underscore its enduring role in promoting modern and contemporary Arab art. The exhibitions Resolutions: Celebrating 15 Years of Mathaf and we refuse_d were inaugurated by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, in the presence of distinguished guests, artists, and cultural figures from Qatar and abroad.

Resolutions: Celebrating 15 Years of Mathaf offers a fresh interpretation of the museum’s renowned permanent collection. The exhibition traces the trajectory of Arab modernism, highlighting pivotal moments in Mathaf’s institutional journey and its contributions to the regional art scene.

Running concurrently, we refuse_d features works by over 15 contemporary Arab artists. Through newly commissioned pieces and collaborative installations, the exhibition explores powerful themes of resistance, care, and resilience, reflecting the evolving narratives within the Arab world.

Together, the exhibitions reaffirm Mathaf’s position as a vital platform for artistic innovation and critical discourse, while celebrating its legacy and future within Qatar’s vibrant cultural ecosystem.

The 15th anniversary season is a key component of Evolution Nation, an 18-month national campaign led by Qatar Creates. The initiative celebrates five decades of cultural development in Qatar, marking 50 years since the establishment of the National Museum of Qatar and 20 years since the founding of Qatar Museums.

Curated by Qatar Creates, Evolution Nation aims to position Qatar as a global center for art, culture, and creativity. The campaign highlights the country’s cultural achievements and its forward-looking vision for continued artistic and intellectual growth.

Mathaf’s anniversary exhibitions not only honor its past but also look ahead to the future, reinforcing its mission to inspire dialogue, preserve heritage, and support the next generation of Arab artists.