Fire Station: Artist in Residence announces the unveiling of the exhibition, ‘The Voyager is the Narrator: New York & Paris Residency Exhibition,’ opening on February 7, 2024. The exhibition will feature the works of 10 artists who took part in the international residency programme across Paris and New York.
Displayed in galleries 3 and 4 at Fire Station, the exhibition will run until April 20, 2024, providing visitors with a journey through the unique perspectives and creative expressions that have emerged from these cities.
The Fire Station: Artist in Residence programme is renowned for nurturing Qatar’s artistic community, offering production support, curatorial advice, mentorships, and studio space to young artists. Participants have the opportunity to showcase their works in an exhibition held in the Garage Gallery upon completing their residency.
The programme expanded to include three-month residencies at the Cite Internationale des Art in Paris and Studio 209 NY as part of the International Studio & Curatorial Programme in New York City. This international platform encourages emerging artists to explore diverse cultural perspectives and develop their creative practice.
Khalifa Al Obaidli, director of Fire Station, emphasised the importance of fostering an environment where artists can thrive, highlighting the global perspective and diverse creativity showcased in the exhibition.
Saida Al-Khulaifi, exhibition curator, described curating the exhibition as a journey of discovery, showcasing the cultural exchange and artistic growth experienced by each participant during their residencies. The selected artworks tell stories of creativity without borders, forming a narrative reflective of the transformative journey undertaken by the artists.
The participating artists from Paris include Ibrahim Albaker, Voyyyd, Fatima Ahmed, Lolwa Almeghaiseb, and Maryam AlTajer, while those from New York include Almaha Nasser, Saida Alkhulaifi, Zainab Alshibani, and Wadha Almesallam.
About Fire Station: Artist in Residence
The Fire Station, an artist residency programme in Qatar, aims to support and promote the country’s artistic community while enriching its art scene. Established in 2015 and housed in a repurposed fire station by Qatari architect Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah, the nine-month programme offers production support, mentorships, and curatorial advice across all artistic disciplines. Engaging with professionals worldwide, the programme highlights Qatar’s growing artistic talent. The campus features extensive studio spaces, a theater, Café #999, and a bookstore. Over six years, it has welcomed 92 artists, expanding to include residencies in Paris and New York. Directed by Khalifa Ahmad Al Obaidli, the programme hosts world-class exhibitions, contributing to Qatar’s cultural landscape.
Location: Galleries 3 & 4, Fire Station, Doha
Dates: February 7 – April 20, 2024
Caption featured image: Ibrahim Albaker.