Doha, Qatar: Qatar Academy Al Khor, part of Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Pre-University Education, held its annual Grade 12 art exhibition, giving the school’s students the freedom to express their thoughts, emotions, and identities through diverse creative works.
This year’s exhibition was held in collaboration with Agora Hotel, where students’ artworks were displayed in the lobby and featured on items such as handbags and room key cards, blending art with everyday life and showcasing Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK) students’ creativity in an innovative way.
The exhibition showcased a diverse collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, conceptual pieces, photography, mixed media, and other artistic formats, reflecting the rich variety of student perspectives and styles.
Maryam Hussein Al-Hail, a 17-year-old graduate of QAK, shared her personal transformation through the experience, saying: “Participating in this exhibition was truly transformative. Growing up, I never saw myself as someone with artistic talent. I thought creating art was beyond my reach.
“But through this project, and with consistent effort, perseverance, and the unwavering support of my teachers, I realized that creativity isn’t just a natural gift. It’s something that can be cultivated through hard work and dedication.
“Studying visual arts has been one of the most enriching parts of my school experience. It gave me the freedom to express myself, experiment with various media, and ultimately discover skills I didn’t know I had. It helped me grow not only as an artist but also as a person.”
Speaking about the exhibition’s setting, she said: “What made this experience even more meaningful was seeing my work displayed outside the school. Having my pieces exhibited in a public space like Agora Hotel was incredibly empowering. It gave me the confidence to believe that art can transcend language and culture, it’s a universal form of communication.
“As my final exhibition before graduation, this experience holds a special place in my heart. I’m leaving not just with a portfolio, but with unforgettable memories and a renewed understanding of who I am and what I’m capable of achieving.”