Artist Statement
Abdulrahman’s work focuses on the intersection of tradition and modernity, exploring how craft practices can be reimagined within contemporary design. By utilizing locally sourced materials, he reflects the rich heritage of Qatar while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of form, technique, and materiality.
Drawing inspiration from traditional Qatari crafts and their connection to material culture, Abdulrahman’s practice is deeply influenced by lost rituals and the intangible histories embedded in everyday objects. He is particularly fascinated by the intricate, often invisible patterns that bind materials to their functional uses, and how these connections are shaped by human experience. This inquiry informs his design practice, where he seeks to bridge the gap between the past and the present.
In his recent explorations, Abdulrahman has delved into Qatar’s material culture, focusing on how traditional crafts can be transformed through the use of innovative materials. His work reflects both a personal and regional journey—one that seeks to engage with local heritage while questioning how these time-honored practices can adapt to a rapidly evolving world.
Abdulrahman’s creative process is rooted in the use of found materials, particularly those employed by craftsmen and artisans. By embracing hand-building techniques, he preserves the tactile, sensory qualities of these materials, allowing their natural textures and imperfections to take center stage. These organic forms often contrast with contemporary patterns, creating a dialogue between the traditional and the modern, the imperfect and the precise.
His current body of work reflects the tension between preservation and innovation, a theme that resonates deeply in the context of Qatar’s rapidly changing urban landscape. Abdulrahman encourages viewers to contemplate the evolving nature of tradition—how it can be preserved yet allowed to grow and transform.
Ultimately, Abdulrahman’s work is a continuous conversation between past and present, tradition and modernity. Looking ahead, he is excited to explore how these ideas can evolve through interdisciplinary collaborations, further challenging the role of craft in contemporary design.
Residencies
Design Doha Moroccan Residency Program 2024
Heenat Salma Creative Research 2022
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