Qatar Opens 'Lawh Wa Qalam' Museum Honoring Artist Husain

HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, officially opened the new 'Lawh Wa Qalam' museum in Education City on Thursday. The museum honors the legacy of the late artist Maqbool Fida Husain, known worldwide for his innovative and expressive works. During her speech, Her Highness praised Husain as a legendary artist whose works connect cultures, histories, and identities across the world. She emphasized that the museum fulfills his dream of a space where his life and art can be celebrated and shared with the public.

Following the inauguration, HH Sheikha Moza toured the museum galleries, which showcase Husain’s journey as an artist. Visitors can explore the themes of faith, philosophy, cultural diversity, and his Yemeni heritage. The museum also highlights Husain’s engagement with Arab civilization and his efforts to promote unity through art. Each gallery offers insight into his creative vision, helping visitors understand the inspiration behind his famous works.

The opening ceremony concluded with a formal dinner at the museum’s Seeroo fi al ardh Hall, which is now a major feature of the museum. The event was attended by HE Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al-Thani, along with sheikhs, ministers, international art collectors, and experts. The gathering reflected Qatar’s growing role in promoting arts and culture on the global stage.

The 'Lawh Wa Qalam' museum houses more than 150 pieces, including paintings, films, textiles, photographs, and personal items of Husain. Many works are being shown publicly for the first time. A highlight is the artist’s final masterpiece, “Seeroo fi al ardh,” completed posthumously in 2019 under the guidance of Qatar Foundation. The museum not only preserves his artworks but also educates visitors about his artistic philosophy and cultural impact.

Husain personally designed the museum to serve as an educational and cultural center. Facilities include a library, creativity corner, lecture hall, gift shop, and café. These spaces encourage visitors to learn, create, and engage with art in an interactive way. The museum will be open to the public from Saturday to Thursday between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, and on Fridays from 1:30 PM to 7:30 PM. It will remain closed on Mondays and public holidays.

The opening of 'Lawh Wa Qalam' demonstrates Qatar’s commitment to arts and culture, creating a platform that inspires creativity and dialogue. The museum provides a deeper understanding of global art through the perspective of Maqbool Fida Husain, allowing people of all ages to experience his rich cultural legacy. By highlighting the life and work of this renowned artist, Qatar continues to strengthen its position as a global center for art, culture, and education.