Sheikha Al Mayassa: Qatar’s long-term cultural strategy is building thriving artistic ecosystem

Doha, Qatar is seeing the growth of a vibrant artistic ecosystem thanks to the country's long-term investment in arts and culture. Chairperson of Qatar Museums, Sheikha Al Mayassa, spoke about this transformation during a conversation at Berlin Art Week 2026 with Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson.

Sheikha Al Mayassa highlighted the impact of this investment across different communities and sectors, noting the emergence of new galleries, creative initiatives, and a rising number of artists choosing to make Qatar their home. She emphasized that the transformation has been decades in the making and that the country's high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and family-oriented environment have contributed to this growth.

The cultural landscape of Qatar is evolving rapidly, with new businesses and entrepreneurs establishing themselves in areas like fashion and design. The country has also attracted private collectors and museums, creating a thriving atmosphere for artists to showcase their work. Sheikha Al Mayassa stressed that creating meaningful change through art and culture requires a long-term strategy, with a 25-year plan being the norm.

Throughout the conversation, Sheikha Al Mayassa emphasized the role of art in fostering dialogue, strengthening connections between people and places, and encouraging positive change in a rapidly changing world. She is drawn to new ideas, curiosity about people and places, and a steadfast commitment to innovation. Art has always been a reflection of the issues and experiences of its time, with artists deeply connected to human matters.

During the discussion, Sheikha Al Mayassa also touched on the collaboration between Qatar Museums and Eliasson, including the 2022 exhibition 'The Curious Desert' and his permanent site-specific public artwork 'Shadows Travelling on the Sea of the Day' in Al Zubarah. The artist reflected on the relationship between his artwork and the desert environment, noting how small plants, insects, and other details influenced his approach to the piece.

Sheikha Al Mayassa also addressed the issue of censorship, stating that curating exhibitions suitable for the audience is a form of respect rather than censorship. Artists have been collaborative in adapting their work for audiences in Qatar, making adjustments to ensure the exhibitions are approachable while still maintaining their artistic integrity.

Finally, Sheikha Al Mayassa highlighted Qatar's upcoming cultural program, which includes 15 exhibitions and initiatives opening in the country this fall, showcasing the diversity of Qatar's cultural landscape and allowing audiences to find their own points of connection with art.