MIA resident-artist praises Qatar’s role in promoting arts of different traditions

Davlat Toshev, a resident artist at the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar, has highlighted the potential for strengthening artistic and cultural cooperation between Qatar and Uzbekistan. In an interview with Gulf Times, the Uzbek master artist expressed how the two countries' rich artistic traditions could complement each other in presenting traditional arts to modern audiences.

Toshev, who is currently in Qatar as an artist-in-residence, emphasized that Uzbekistan's centuries-old legacy in crafts, miniature painting, calligraphy, and manuscript art could synergize with Qatar’s sophisticated cultural infrastructure. These include museums, residencies, and cultural initiatives that have developed a global platform for heritage.

He outlined several areas for collaboration, such as joint exhibitions, artist exchanges, master-apprentice programmes, and research initiatives. These could yield mutual benefits for the cultural and artistic communities of both nations.

Toshev noted that both Qatar and Uzbekistan share deep historical roots, a common Islamic civilizational heritage, and a profound appreciation for art and culture. He believes these shared foundations can facilitate a harmonious collaboration.

During his stay in Qatar, Toshev interacted with artists, researchers, and art professionals from various countries, which provided valuable opportunities for exchanging ideas and perspectives. He was particularly impressed by Qatar’s ability to balance tradition and modernity.

Looking ahead, Toshev aspires to return to Uzbekistan with new collaborations and creative insights, especially on how to make Bukhara miniature painting more accessible to a contemporary audience. He views Bukhara miniature painting not just as a national heritage of Uzbekistan, but as a vital part of humanity’s shared cultural memory.

Toshev’s experience in Qatar has also transformed his perspective on his own artistic heritage. He stated that stepping away from his daily environment and entering a new cultural setting allows an artist to reflect more deeply on their work and the traditions they carry. He stressed that preserving a tradition should not mean confining it to the past, but rather, it should foster a living, meaningful connection between heritage, the present, and the future.