Chinese Art of Silk exhibition begins in Doha

Silks from the Silk Road – Chinese Art of Silk exhibition opened at Qatar Museums (QM) Gallery at Katara yesterday will run till 9th May. The exhibition is part of Qatar China 2016 Year of Culture was inaugurated by H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums.

The exhibition reflects the rich artistry of Chinese silk in terms of art, techniques and fashion design over thousands of years. Both, ancient and modern Chinese silk treasures are on display at the exhibition.

In collaboration with Qatar Museums, the China National Silk Museum has brought 100 silk ancient and modern pieces made of silk which demonstrate the artistry of the Chinese silk-making culture and industry.

The exhibition focuses on the material properties and uses of silk, the products created throughout history and the techniques in silk production and design. It also shines the spotlight on Zhang Qian, a Chinese official and diplomat who played a key role in opening China to commercial trade in the 2nd century BCE, by setting up the Silk Road.

The exhibition provides insight into the Silk Road, which was a bridge for economic and cultural exchange between East and West over 2,000 years ago. Mulberry silk weaving technology spread from China to the rest of the world through this trading route.

While it maps out the history of silk and its cultural significance over thousands of years, the exhibition also allows visitors to experience the charm of contemporary Chinese silk.

This vibrant exhibition is designed to enhance the mutual understanding between the people of Qatar and China, and they are confident that this exhibition will resonate strongly with local audiences, given the significance of silk throughout the history and culture of Qatar.

Mohammed Al Othman, Public and International Relations Director at Qatar Museums said that as the second major exhibition of the Qatar China 2016 Year of Culture, this will support the cultural exchange and dialogue between the two countries through different forms of art, which will challenge stereotypes, break down barriers between cultures, and open minds.

Several public programmes were held in the run-up to the exhibition including a talk by curator Xue Yan, from the China National Silk Museum in Zhejiang, that explored Chinese silk on the Silk Road from the 10th to the 14th century throughout the period of the Liao, Song, Jin and Yuan dynasties, during which time Chinese fashions changed dramatically.

A number of interactive tie-dying workshops were also held for adults and families.