Doha, Qatar – August 28, 2024 — Media Majlis Museum (mm:museum) at Northwestern University in Qatar has inaugurated its eighth mixed-media exhibition, "The limits of my language are the limits of my world," exploring the Arabic language, its imprints from the past, its multifaceted present and precarious future. Curated by cultural producer and Northwestern Qatar alumna Amal Zeyad Ali, it will run until December 5, 2024.
In line with the museum's mission, the new exhibition combines art, media, and technology to examine the present representations, historical impacts, and future of the Arabic language. Throughout history, Arabic has shaped tastes, perceptions, and narratives worldwide across culture, politics, social relations, trade, and science. Nowadays, however, Arabic faces challenges of misrepresentation, especially in a digital and globalized world where English increasingly prevails.
"The inauguration of the new exhibition on Arabic language is a powerful testament to our commitment to excellence, collaboration, and intellectual exploration," said Marwan M. Kraidy, dean and CEO of Northwestern Qatar. "By delving into the complexities and evolving influence of Arabic, this exhibition not only celebrates the richness of our cultural heritage but also sparks meaningful dialogue on its future."
The exhibition revolves around four key themes that offer an immersive journey and thoughtful reflection. The first theme, "Always another side?," introduces the Arabic language and its complexities. The second theme, "An influential and powerful language?," explores Arabic's influence as a powerful language that has shaped politics, religion, science, and culture worldwide. The third theme, "Does media representation matter?," examines the portrayal of Arabic in contemporary media. The final theme, "Is Arabic a language of the future?," discusses the future of Arabic.
"The limits of my language are the limits of my world is more than just an exhibition; it is a bold statement on the critical importance of the Arabic language in our global narrative," said Alfredo Cramerotti, director of mm:museum. "This exhibition challenges us to confront the forces that threaten to diminish the richness of Arabic and instead celebrate its enduring influence on culture, politics, and thought."
Curator Amal Zeyad Ali said, "The Arabic language is a living testament to our rich cultural heritage, yet it faces unprecedented challenges in today's globalized, digital landscape. With this exhibition, I aim to spark meaningful dialogue about these challenges and inspire a renewed appreciation for the beauty, diversity, and resilience of Arabic."
The exhibition features a range of commissioned artworks and interactive content. Notable works include "Breaths of a Dialog" by Qatar-based Jordanian artist Hala Amer; "Letter by Letter" by Bahraini artist Latifa Al Ali; "Clear Truth" by Jordan-based Syrian artist Hussein Alazaat; "Lines" by Bahraini artist Zainab Alsabba; "Skateboard series" by Saudi artist Yusef Alahmad; works by Saudi-based British artist Simon Mortimer; and "The Language of Time" by Tunisian artist Karim Jabbari.
The exhibition also features a Takween Mural, a life-size modular magnetic block developed in collaboration with Akwan and designer Lujain Abulfaraj. In addition to art pieces, the exhibition features spoken word performances by Egyptian-Australian poet Salwa Sadek and Palestinian poet Dana Dajani, along with digital content provided by partners Al Jazeera, BBC Arabic, and Al Araby TV.
A filmed debate titled "Where do you stand?," moderated by Qatari stand-up comedian and presenter Hamad Al-Amari, features discussions on the role of the Arabic language in modern society. Accompanying the exhibition is a special edition of the museum's publication, Voices and Conversations.
The exhibition opens on August 27 until December 5, 2024, from Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
About the Media Majlis Museum
The Media Majlis Museum at Northwestern University in Qatar is the first university museum in the Arab world dedicated to exploring journalism, communication, and media. Through engaging exhibitions, publications, programs, and online resources, the Museum creates immersive experiences that challenge conventional narratives and present diverse perspectives on global, regional, and local stories.
About Northwestern University in Qatar
Northwestern University in Qatar is known for its distinguished history, famous programs, and exceptional faculty. Founded in partnership with the Qatar Foundation, Northwestern Qatar provides a framework through which students explore the world and, ultimately, shape its future through its distinguished programs in communication, journalism and strategic communication, and the liberal arts.
