Muna is a celebrated Qatari artist whose murals have become a mainstay in the capital city Doha. She first collaborated with the British Council in 2022, lending her artistic talents to a mural celebrating the Qatar UK Festival. Last year, we asked her to contribute to another mural, this time representing the 2023 festival theme: sustainability and communities.
"Being invited to paint the mural for a second time was truly an honour, and it allowed me to further explore the intersection of nature and culture between Qatar and the UK," Muna says. The project’s focus on the vibrant flora of both countries sparked Muna's curiosity and passion for environmental conservation. By researching the diverse flowers in the UK and Qatar, she gained a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty of both countries.
"This project enabled me to merge my love for art with a meaningful cause, raising awareness about the importance of preserving our environment," Muna shares, emphasising the significance of using art as a vehicle for environmental advocacy. Another highlight was the opportunity to collaborate with diverse communities and both local and UK artists on the mural. This sharing of ideas and techniques provided Muna with new perspectives and different artistic approaches to explore.
Looking to the future, Muna remains committed to using art as a medium for cultural exchange, expression, and understanding. She hopes to continue collaborating with the British Council to showcase Qatari culture in the UK. "I believe art has the power to transcend boundaries and foster connections between people from diverse backgrounds," Muna says. Her own experience at the Qatar UK Festivals is certainly proof of that.