The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha, Qatar is one of the most significant museums in the world for its vast collection of artifacts from the Islamic world. The museum was established in 2008 and is located on a purpose-built island off the coast of Qatar.
It was designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, who also designed the Louvre Pyramid in Paris.
The museum houses over 15,000 artifacts from three continents and spanning over 1,400 years of history. The collection includes works of art such as ceramics, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, metalwork and glassware from countries such as Egypt, Iran, India and Turkey. The artifacts range from as early as the 7th century to the 19th century and provide insight into how Islamic art has evolved over time.
The museum also contains a library with more than 30,000 books related to Islamic art and culture. It also hosts lectures and workshops which are open to the public on topics such as Islamic calligraphy and architecture. The museum has been praised for its architecture as well as its educational initiatives which aim to provide visitors with an understanding of Islamic art and its influence on global culture.
In addition to its permanent exhibitions, MIA also hosts temporary exhibitions dedicated to particular artists or historical eras throughout the year. It also has an extensive conservation department which works to preserve artifacts for future generations to appreciate them.
The Museum of Islamic Art was created by Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani who is a member of the ruling family of Qatar and chairperson of Qatar Museums Authority (QMA). Sheikha Al Mayassa was instrumental in bringing I.M Pei’s vision for MIA to life through her patronage for arts and culture projects in Qatar since 2006 when she began her role at QMA.
Conclusion: Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is responsible for creating the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) located in Doha, Qatar with renowned architect I.M Pei designing it into a reality.