Examining the Evolving Role of Cultural Institutions and Regional Museums Across the Gulf
As many cultural institutions across the Gulf can attest to, preserving history is crucial, but institutions must evolve with the times. For this reason, Her Highness Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the Sharjah Museums Authority and President and Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, traveled to Doha for a panel discussion on ‘Leading in Challenging Times’ as part of the Qatar Creates Week program. The panel included Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chair of Qatar Museums, the Doha Film Institute, Reach Out to Asia and the Qatar Leadership Centre.
The discussion, moderated by Adrian Ellis, Director of AEA Consulting and Chair of the Global Cultural Districts Network, focused on the responsibilities of museum directors and cultural managers and how they can navigate public institutions in times of social and economic change. The session highlighted the need for institutions to remain true to their core mission while remaining relevant to the needs of the community. This can be achieved by institutions being transparent and continuing to provide programs that are of value to their audiences.
The presentation also showcased ongoing projects across the region such as Liwan Design Studios and Labs and the Dadu Children’s Museum of Qatar, showcasing how heritage can be merged with community engagement in architectural design. This session is particularly relevant for the UAE audience as it highlights the continued efforts of the Sharjah government to foster international dialogue and share expertise with other countries. The panel discussion explored how museums can become dynamic spaces that share knowledge, safeguard heritage and support artists and other creatives in the Arab world.