Qatar Foundation will open a new museum in Doha later this year dedicated to the life and work of Indian modernist artist Maqbool Fida Husain, also known as M.F. Husain. Scheduled to launch on November 28th, Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum will be the first institution devoted to the artist’s career.
Born in 1913, Husain was one of the best-known artists associated with Indian modernism, and was aco-founder of the post-independence Progressive Artist Group in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1947. His multidisciplinary career earned widespread recognition throughout his life, presenting work at the Venice Biennale in 1952, Tokyo Biennial in 1960, and Sao Paulo Biennial in 1971, among many others later.
The museum will open the foundation’s Education City in Doha, the Qatari capital. The 3,000 square meter space will feature a permanent collection of Husain’s work, from the 1950s until his passing in 2010. This body of work spans paintings, films, poetry, installations, and photography. The building’s design follows an architectural sketch drawn by Husain himself.
“Maqbool Fida Husain was one of the world’s most legendary modernists, an artist whose vision emerged from and resonated across different cultures, including here in Qatar, where he lived and practiced during his life,” Kholoud M. Al-Ali, executive director of community engagement and programming for the Qatar Foundation, said in a statement.
Lawh Wa Qalam will also feature over 35 paintings commissioned by Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of Qatar Foundation, that reflect Arab civilization.
“Conceived as a space for inspiration and creativity. Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum reflects Qatar Foundation’s dedication to providing spaces for everyone to explore, enjoy, learn from, and be inspired by art and culture,” Al-Ali continued.
