Art Basel Qatar will debut in February 2026, with artist Wael Shawky as its inaugural artistic director. This partnership involves two state-owned enterprises in Qatar and aims to explore artistic practices in the Mena region. The fair will feature a unique format where each gallery must present a solo artist's work. Shawky's theme for the exhibition is 'Becoming.' The fair's layout is flexible and may see an increase in exhibitors due to expanded venue space.
Wael Shawky has been appointed as the artistic director for Art Basel Qatar's inaugural edition in February 2026, marking the first time an artist assumes this role at Art Basel.
Each gallery is asked to submit a solo artist presentation for a stand of 33 sq m, responding to Shawky's curatorial theme, 'Becoming,' to explore artistic practices in the Mena region.
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