Qatar Splurges on Modern Art Despite Conservatism

GLOBAL POST

"Miraculous Journey" by Damien Hirst (2010)

QATAR---Energy-rich Qatar is gaining a foothold on the global cultural scene by lavishing billions of dollars on renowned artworks, but some could prove controversial in the deeply conservative Gulf monarchy. Damien Hirst's "Miraculous Journey" -- a group of 14 bronze foetus sculptures -- makes an unlikely addition to the landscape of Doha, installed in front of a medical centre on the outskirts of the capital. In 2010 the emirate established the first museum devoted to modern Arab art. The avant-garde vision of Sheikha Al-Mayassa sometimes appears to be on a collision course with the emirate's deeply conservative populace. Conservative interpretations of Islam forbid the portrayal of the human form, equating it with idolatry.[link]