Motherland
Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed Al Thani
Photos: Arnold AG
Acceptance in the production hall of Arnold AG
Production and assembly of a cultural landmark
Between 2017 and 2018, we were able to realize the complex production of the monumental sculpture Motherland for the Qatar Museums. As early as the design phase in 2017, the focus was on translating Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed Al Thani's artistic idea into a technically feasible form. It was shipped in February 2019 and assembled on site in Qatar in March 2019.
The work consists of a combination of elaborately hand-molded 3D elements and precisely manufactured milled parts. The bands on the back of the sculpture have been modified so that visitors can take a seat there - a detail that enables interaction with the work.
Photo: Arnold AG
Arrival of the sculpture in Doha, Qatar
Photo: Arnold AG
Delivery of the sculpture by crane in Doha, Qatar
Photo: Arnold AG
Exterior view of the National Museum of Qatar in Doha
A female legacy in reflective metal
Photo: Arnold AG
View of the sculpture from behind
A symbol of tradition, identity and femininity
Motherland is a polished stainless steel work of art that combines maritime traditions, national identity and Qatar's female heritage. The abstract form is reminiscent of both the traditional battoola, the metallic face mask worn by Qatari women, and the motif of a dhow, the classic sailing boat of the Gulf region.
The careful production of the stainless steel surface creates a reflective interplay of light and space that makes the sculpture appear both monumental and poetic.
Installing the artwork in the museum posed a particular challenge. As the doors were actually too small for the sculpture, we developed special auxiliary trolleys with which the work could be moved through the entrances in exactly one position. This process was simulated and trained in advance at the STH site before it was finally successfully implemented in Doha.
Photo: Arnold AG
View of the sculpture from the front
Collector, founder, artist: one man, many talents
Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed Al Thani (born 1960 in Doha) is an artist, collector and cultural patron. As founder of the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art and Vice Chairman of the Qatar Museums Authority, he is one of the most influential personalities in the Qatari cultural landscape. His work combines symbols of tradition with contemporary forms of expression, opening up spaces for national and international dialog.
With the realization of Motherland, we were able to successfully implement a technically and artistically demanding project. The sculpture not only enriches the collection of the National Museum of Qatar, but is also a visible sign of the country's cultural identity.
We are proud to have contributed to the realization of this important work.
Video: Arnold AG
Installation of the sculpture in the National Museum of Qatar
More projects
![[Translate to English:]](/fileadmin/_processed_/0/a/csm_Arnold_AG_Nest_01_9469559025.jpg "[Translate to English:]")
![[Translate to English:]](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/2/csm_Arnold_Rock_Cube_03_91053d77bf.jpg "[Translate to English:]")
