Museum of Islamic Art

I have now been through the Museum of Islamic Art four times and I think it is about time for a discussion.  The Museum is, in my humble opinion, one of the best architectural designs I have ever seen in the modern world, truly reflecting the culture of the people of Qatar and the Middle East.  The building itself was designed by I.M. Pei, a Pritzker Prize laureate, and he has incorporated details and symbols into the exterior and interior of the building that make for a stunning facility that is worthy of repeat visits.  It opened in December 2008 and was created on new land dredged from the sea.

To my eye, it seems the architect was inspired by the eight-pointed star called a khatim, or seal of the prophets which has ideological significance because it is used in the Qu'ran.  The roots of the star are in early astronomy and symbolic of the four corners of space - north, south, east and west; and time - two solstices and two equinoxes - eight points altogether.  The symbolic meaning of the star is apparently representative of learning, community, faith and love of beauty.  Very fitting for this place.  The Museum seems to rise out of a series of cube shapes tiered to form ever smaller multiple levels placed symmetrically like the star.  There is a beautiful avenue of trees and flowing water leading to the entrance. 

Once you enter the building you are confronted by geometric designs of the star everywhere.  From the high point of the central dome, the star shapes reach down to balance each of the floors.  The exhibition rooms are built out from the perimeter walls and the hallways leading from them form a perfect square overlooking a central and vast main floor.  A floating staircase built in a circular shape takes up the centre of the room and allows you to be drawn to the vast windowscape.  The lighting is perfect and the scenery from the five floor window overlooking Doha Bay is breathtaking - it captures the ever-growing skyline on the other side of the Bay, and passing dhows and fishing boats that make their way to and from the harbour.  Standing at the window you can see waves lapping at the building, so that it seems you are floating on the sea. It is a place of restful and peaceful ambiance that even children seem to be aware of.  There is a hushed silence except for the occasional quiet footfall.  The floors and wall are of desert colour marble and with sunset they take on a glint that is remarkable. 

The exhibits themselves are tastefully arranged and very interesting.  Not so much that you feel overwhelmed, and well placed so that you can see a variety of examples of the same thing in the same place.  Each exhibit reflects something of Islamic art - calligraphy, rugs, ancient Qu'ranic scripts, khaba's, jewellry, pottery, glassware and art.

I have learned a lot and will be back to visit again, and again.

Shukran.