Where beauty meets purpose: Qatar Foundation’s Al Ghorrah for Literature and Arts

Doha, Qatar: Intricate techniques from the heart of Arab Islamic cultural heritage are being learned by children and adults alike as Qatar Foundation...

Doha, Qatar: Intricate techniques from the heart of Arab-Islamic cultural heritage are being learned by children and adults alike as Qatar Foundation’s Al Ghorrah for Literature and Arts continues to take people on a journey of creativity.

From musical and theatrical performances to storytelling, culinary experiences, and interactive workshops, the five-day event at Education City is a unique and diverse showcase of artistic and cultural expression for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

And within Al Ghorrah’s Multicultural Zone and Multaqa (Education City Student Center), visitors have been experiencing the beauty of Arabic calligraphy, and discovering the rich history of Islamic geometric patterns, through specialized workshops that allow them to try their hand at learning these ancient skills.

In sessions led by contemporary artist and educator Samira Mian, participants have been recreating historical patterns through the use of symmetry and repetition, tracing their designs on khaki cotton paper and bringing them to life through pencils and paint.