Lawh wa Qalam: A New Chapter in Qatar’s Cultural Scene
Qatar is home to a rich and diverse museum landscape, spanning heritage, Islamic art, sport and contemporary creativity, offering residents and visitors new perspectives on the country, the region and the world.
Adding a distinctive new chapter to this cultural offering is Lawh wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum, an immersive celebration of the life, work and legacy of one of the twentieth century’s most influential modern artists.
Since its opening by Qatar Foundation in Education City in November 2025, the museum has welcomed more than 9,000 visitors and was named among TIME magazine’s World’s Greatest Places 2026. It is also a member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM).
The World's First Museum Dedicated to M. F. Husain
Lawh wa Qalam invites visitors to journey through M. F. Husain’s extraordinary creative career, from the influences that shaped his work to the important final chapter of his life in Qatar.
Today, Lawh wa Qalam brings many dimensions of his life and work together under one roof. The building itself carries Husain’s creative imprint. Inspired by his own sketch for a cultural space in Doha, the distinctive blue structure was brought to life by architect Martand Khosla and now stands as a striking addition to Education City.
Step Inside Husain's Creative World
The experience begins with a reception space inspired by Husain’s home and studio, followed by an immersive 360-degree room that brings his distinctive brushstrokes to life.
Across the galleries, visitors can explore paintings, photography, tapestries, sculptures and watercolours spanning different periods of his career. Highlights include The Artist and His Model, Doll’s Wedding and works from India’s 100 Years of Struggle for Freedom.
Interactive elements add another dimension to the experience, including a Praxinoscope featuring scenes from Husain’s films and a periscope offering panoramic views across Education City. The ‘A Curious Mind’ gallery explores his interest in faith, history and civilisation through works including Theorama and World Religions.
The Qatar Chapter
The museum’s final gallery explores Husain’s connection to Qatar, where he spent the later years of his life.
It was during this period that he embarked on one of his most ambitious projects: a planned series of 99 paintings exploring Arab and Islamic civilisation. Husain completed more than 30 works before his passing in 2011.
Works including Warriors and Poets and Zuljanah Horse offer a glimpse into this important final chapter of his artistic journey.
Beyond the Galleries
Lawh wa Qalam also offers a programme of educational and community experiences. By the end of June 2026, the museum had delivered close to 50 workshops and learning activities for more than 700 participants, ranging from school programmes to family and community sessions.
Visitors can also explore the library, auditorium, creativity hub and gift shop, or stop by the café outside the museum.
For more cultural attractions and experiences across Qatar, visit the Visit Qatar website and discover the latest exhibitions and events through Qatar Calendar.
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