Wael Shawky, 2022. © Lien Wevers for M Leuven. Courtesy of Barakat Contemporary, Sfeir-Semler Gallery, Lisson Gallery, Galleria Lia Rumma
Egyptian artist Wael Shawky has been appointed as the Artistic Director for the inaugural edition of Art Basel Qatar, which will take place in Doha from February 6 to 7, 2026. This marks the first time that Art Basel has selected an artist to serve as Artistic Director.
The first edition of Art Basel Qatar will unfold around Shawky’s curatorial theme, "Becoming." This theme explores the ongoing transformations of the Gulf region, where oral traditions intersect with digital networks, and ancient trade routes are reimagined as contemporary flows of culture and capital. In line with this vision, more than 50 participating galleries will depart from the conventional art fair model of solo presentations to adopt a new, curatorial approach tailored to the theme.
The first edition of Art Basel Qatar will unfold around Shawky’s curatorial theme, "Becoming." This theme explores the ongoing transformations of the Gulf region, where oral traditions intersect with digital networks, and ancient trade routes are reimagined as contemporary flows of culture and capital. In line with this vision, more than 50 participating galleries will depart from the conventional art fair model of solo presentations to adopt a new, curatorial approach tailored to the theme.
July 10, 2025
