June 2018
Bouthayna Al Muftah
Doha is one of the most exciting places in the world to be an artist. Bouthayna Al Muftah, one of Qatar’s most talented young artists, explains why and how it influences her art.
Tell us about your art
Culture, heritage, folklore and tradition. This is the basis of my artistic expression and subject matter – the themes and dialogue that I have chosen to express through different media to keep my native land’s memories alive for generations to come.
What inspired you to become an artist?
Art was always a hobby of mine. As a young girl, I always enjoyed the experimentation process of arts and crafts, mastering new techniques and learning to take them further in my own way. I always found great comfort in an art class. There was no right or wrong – it allowed me to be myself, as well as find my path to discovering my own identity.
What is your preferred medium and why?
Black ink is my favourite medium and the basis of most of my artwork. I have always loved monochromatic artwork and the combination of the rich black ink pouring onto the crisp white paper. This passion emerged during my years in middle school, as I began learning the techniques of Chinese ink painting and calligraphy. From there, my appreciation for black and white art evolved into what you see today.
You say that Qatar is the main inspiration for your art. Why is this?
Recording and communicating memories through art is my way of staying close to my cultural history. I like to capture glimpses from the past and conceptualise them in a
deconstructed form, while inviting the viewer to reflect on our history.
“Qatar is fast becoming one of the best places in the world for aspiring young artists, for which we owe much to Her Excellency Sheikha Mayassa Al Thani for her support and encouragement of the arts.”
How did it feel to showcase your art in Berlin in 2017?
It was one of the highlights of my artistic career. To have been selected as an exhibitor in Berlin – one of the most influential cities in the arts – was something I had never imagined for myself. It was awe-inspiring to see my work up on display and a true honour.
Do you believe Qatar encourages its artists?
Absolutely. Qatar is fast becoming one of the best places in the world for aspiring young artists, for which we owe much to Her Excellency Sheikha Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, for her support and encouragement of the arts. And the support from the artistic community in Doha is an amazing source of inspiration – and motivation!
