Although the Arab uprisings lifted some previous barriers to artistic expression, new limitations and challenges have emerged. But Arab artists are often squeezed between the bounds of acceptable discourse, set by rulers who fear freedom of expression and conservative societal groups that seek to control acceptable behavior. Regional artists have the potential to positively contribute to democratic transition by shaping public debate in ways that support tolerance and nonviolence. This report focuses on one sphere whose power and importance is often underestimated: the artistic arena. Successful democratic transitions will not be easy and will require change in multiple spheres. Still in its infancy the website is set to be a valuable resource for art curators all around the world, and in time may inspire future artists from all across the region.After decades of authoritarianism, a wave of political change and unrest began to sweep across the Middle East and North Africa in early 2011. The Encyclopedia is still a work in progress and is mainly focusing on including all artists from the Mathaf's permanent collection with the ultimate goal of adding Arab artists beyond their collection. Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani, Mathaf has established a commission of scholars and independent researchers to write encyclopedia entries/biographies under the direction of Professor Nada Shabout, who acts as the Director of Research at the organisation.
The website is a collaborative effort between Qatar Museums and the Qatar Foundation and aims to become a major resource for Arab artists and art history in the region.
Looking to change that is a new site website called Mathaf Encyclopedia of Modern Art and the Arab World (MEMAAW).
Sadly, all too often artists who should be treasured as national icons are often forgotten as most Arab countries do a poor job with documenting artists and their works. Art continues to be a major inspiration for Middle Eastern culture and architecture.
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