QF has unveiled artwork titled “Azzm” consisting of three granite sculptures depicting local women wearing abayas and battoulahs

In Education City, a piece of art has been unveiled by the Qatar Foundation. It is called "Azzm" and consists of three granite sculptures of native ladies wearing the traditional garb of the area, the abaya and battoulah. His Excellency Sheikh Hassan Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al Thani, Advisor of Cultural Affairs of the Qatar Foundation (QF), created the artwork.

As per Al Thani this work is intended to highlight the strength of the nation and how it has overcome challenges.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the head of the Qatar Foundation, selected this piece. In addition, the three women chosen represent the three QF priority areas of science and research, education, and community development.

The angle of the sculptures as they lean into the wind and the rippling of the abayas serve to emphasise how the piece depicts ladies walking into the wind. This attempts to demonstrate a woman's resilience in the face of hardships in life, and the silk cloak, which represents the resilience and solidarity of the women, is shown on smooth granite.

His Excellency Sheikh Hassan outlined how the concept for the monument developed from a simple paper sketch to a clay model and ultimately to the installation in Education City.

Granite is a challenging stone to deal with, so the entire procedure took around two and a half years. 

His Excellency Sheikh Hassan discussed the value of public art by stating that artwork may beautify areas and operate as a kind of education by encouraging viewers to engage with, discuss, and consider various ideas and thoughts.

He said that art is a creative expression of a person's experiences, vision, and philosophy and that it is a significant part of a nation's culture.

"Art is the jewel in the crown of civilization -- it reflects the renaissance of nations and the advancement of societies."

The artwork, which is next to the 2015 building (QF Headquarters), was created to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the founding of QF.