We explore how Qatar operates on the international art stage through exhibitions, public art, and global cultural platforms in the inaugural episode of Qatar Creates’ new podcast series Evolution Nation, powered by afikra. Our first guest, Sheikha Reem Al Thani, who is Deputy CEO of Al Riwaq, public art and Rubaiya Qatar at Qatar museums, reflects on the strategic thinking behind major international exhibitions, the role of flexible spaces like Al Riwaq, and how public art shapes everyday cultural engagement. She also discusses long-term models such as the Rubaiya Qatar quadrennial, global collaborations, and the balance between spectacle, research, and meaningful cultural exchange. Join us as we take a closer look at how Qatar’s cultural institutions translate vision into action on the global stage.
We explore how Qatar operates on the international art stage through exhibitions, public art, and global cultural platforms in the inaugural episode of Qatar Creates’ new podcast series Evolution Nation, powered by afikra. Our first guest, Sheikha Reem Al Thani, who is Deputy CEO of Al Riwaq, public art and Rubaiya Qatar at Qatar museums, reflects on the strategic thinking behind major international exhibitions, the role of flexible spaces like Al Riwaq, and how public art shapes everyday cultural engagement. She also discusses long-term models such as the Rubaiya Qatar quadrennial, global collaborations, and the balance between spectacle, research, and meaningful cultural exchange. Join us as we take a closer look at how Qatar’s cultural institutions translate vision into action on the global stage.
00:00 Introduction
01:32 Qatar on the International Art Stage
04:03 Professional Journey and the Founding of Mathaf
07:30 Qatar Museums’ Evolution and Mission
13:14 Al Riwaq: From Temporary Space to Permanent Institution
16:06 Defining Local in a Global Context
18:43 The Rubaiyat Qatar Architecture Quadrennial
22:42 Legacy and the 2026 World Cup Celebration
24:12 The Role of Biennials and Quadrennials
27:04 Defining Success and Future Impact
28:38 A Four-Day Cultural Itinerary for Qatar
31:36 Msheireb Downtown Doha: The Architectural Brief
34:52 Navigating Challenges and Avoiding Off the Rails Growth
36:57 The Stakes of Cultural Development
39:37 National Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy
43:36 Engaging the Next Generation
46:00 An Open Door for International Artists
Sheikha Reem Al Thani is a cultural leader and multidisciplinary designer with over fifteen years of experience at Qatar Museums. She currently serves asDeputy CEO of ALRIWAQ, public art and Rubaiya qatar at Qatar museums, overseeing major exhibition platforms, public art initiatives, and the Rubaiya Qatar quadrennial. She has led the development of more than 100 exhibitions, including Forever Valentino, Dior Designer of Dreams, Jeff Koons: Lost in America, KAWS: He Eats Alone, and I.M. Pei: Life is Architecture. She also teaches exhibition design at VCUarts Qatar and serves on advisory boards including IE School of Architecture and Design, Qatar University, IN-Q Enterprises, and The World Around’s Young Climate Prize. Sheikha Reem is the first Qatari to earn a Master’s degree in Adaptive Reuse Interior Architecture from RISD, after completing dual undergraduate degrees in Interior and Fashion Design at VCUarts Qatar, and her work focuses on human-centered design and strengthening Qatar’s global cultural presence.
Connect with Shaikha Reem Al Thani 👉 https://instagram.com/reem_althani7
Hosted by Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://instagram.com/mikey_mu
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