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F rom the Western coast of the Arabian Gulf spreads a desert
climate expanding over a Peninsula and including a number of
Islands. There, between the sand, the land, the sea and the sky
stand firm a vibrant cultural heritage of the Peninsula of Qatar
recalling a long history of cultures and civilizations including
nomadic life, battles wealth, trading and excavation.
Architecture in Qatar showcases, through its old building
and monuments, the strong Islamic influence in the country
while modern architecture has brought global neutrality. The
contrasting dialogue of architecture, juxtaposing the local
vernacular and the buildings that usher in the age of modernity,
has pushed many researchers, photographers and others to
create cultural activities to highlight, protect and learn about
the Qatar heritage.
F rom this premise, the IHPE experience in Qatar was launched
for the first time to project “Heritage in Qatar” seen through
the creative eye of youth, f rom various local and international
educational institutions. The intent was to encourage them to
discover monumental heritage in Qatar, value it, love it and so
strive to protect these fast disappearing structures.
The jury selected two prize-winning images that have
successfully carried the value of monuments f rom the past
and brought them to light. One focuses on the worn-out mud
house in Abu Thloof old town situated in the North of Qatar.
“Its simplicity and materiality captures the very essence of
the local heritage, culture and history. Memories of nomadic
ancestors are manifest within the foundation of these withering
houses”, said Asma Al Thani, prize-winning student.
The second is Al- Zubarah Fort that is “built on the North
Western coast of Qatar and is strategically placed for protection
and defense. It is considered to be as an iconic artifact of Qatari
history and heritage,” said Esra Abduljawad, prize-winning
student.
The success of this photographic experience in Doha, Qatar
this year has cultivated youth who are observing and recording
potential heritage sites. Through the IHPE future competitions
we hope to foster wider participation and interest in
photography and heritage preservation.
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