Msheireb: Museums, in collaboration with the Italian Embassy in Doha, presented the globally celebrated exhibition "MARMO I MARBLE. CARVING THE FUTURE," held at Bin Jelmood House Lower Gallery.
According to Qatar News Agency, having travelled to prestigious venues in several Arab and global cities, the exhibition arrives in Doha to illuminate the deep connections between culture, artistry, and industrial mastery that define Italy's marble tradition. Through a striking blend of historical reverence and contemporary ingenuity, MARMO presents how this timeless material has shaped architecture, sculpture, and design across centuries-from the masterpieces of Michelangelo, Bernini, and Canova to cutting-edge applications in modern art and technology.
Visitors to the Msheireb Museums will find a compelling dialogue between history and modernity, where traditional craftsmanship meets advanced techniques. The exhibition, which has been shown in various venues since 2023, conveys the continuous exchange between business and art, embodied in both historic sculptures and innovative contemporary works. Adding a unique dimension, an original soundtrack accompanies the exhibition, weaving a rich auditory experience that connects each gallery space and enhances visitor engagement on an emotional and sensory level.
Alongside the Italian exhibits transported for this global tour, the exhibition features a special contribution from Qatari artist Shuaa Ali, whose work highlights the adaptability of marble and natural stone within the local cultural and artistic context. Her pieces provide a meaningful link between the exhibition's Italian roots and Qatar's evolving art scene, reflecting the material's global reach and local resonance.
Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, remarked on the exhibition's significance, noting the collaboration with the Italian Embassy in Qatar and cultural organizations. He emphasized how the event fosters a dialogue concerning traditional materials and their relevance to contemporary practices.
HE Paolo Toschi, Ambassador of Italy to Qatar, echoed these sentiments by acknowledging the MARMO exhibition as a testament to the flourishing cultural and trade relations between Italy and Qatar. He highlighted the shared appreciation for art and the importance of strengthening ties in industries renowned for excellence, such as the marble sector.
Renato Saporito, Founder and CEO of Magister Art, underscored marble's role as a symbol of Italian cultural heritage, celebrating its historical and contemporary significance. He emphasized the importance of promoting Italy's artistic and technological prowess through international collaborations that foster appreciation and understanding.