Welcome to A2Q: A Letter from the Executive Director Dear Friends of QAIC, As we make our way through 2021 with the COVID-19 pandemic still on everyone’s mind, we at QAIC remain committed to our mission of cultivating artistic expression and cultural dialogue from the United States, Qatar, and the larger Arab and Islamic worlds as a means for bridge building and cultural connection. In that effort, it is with great pleasure that we introduce our inaugural publication of A2Q - a quarterly magazine full of exclusive articles, interviews, and fun activities relating to art and culture. The name A2Q comes from the magazine’s goal of covering topics ranging “from America to Qatar and everything in between.” We hope A2Q can give voice to creatives, academics, writers, and storytellers seeking to make a positive change in the world by sharing their stories, journeys, activities, and lessons with others. We hope that through A2Q, we can continue to share unique perspectives and creative visions while bridging the gap – whether six feet apart or oceans away – between our diverse communities in the United States, Qatar, and the Arab and Islamic worlds. As a quarterly magazine, each issue will feature content that encompasses the themes celebrated at QAIC throughout that quarter, delivering in-depth and engaging content that complements our in-person and virtual programming. Our first issue focuses on Film, Sports & Society, and Architecture & Olfactory Art, and more. Our goal while producing A2Q was to create a product for anyone interested in the unifying experience of art and culture that would help expand their perception of the world around them. In the following pages (and in issues to come), you will encounter literature on culture, examples of art collaboration, and interactive activities for your own creative expression. As our community consists of not only artists and creatives but also academics and business professionals, our hope is to provide a magazine that is meaningful, enjoyable, and relatable for our diverse audience from around the world. We truly hope that you enjoy the content shared within these pages and that it inspires you to share your own expressions and experiences with us in the future. Sincerely,
Fatima Al-Dosari, Executive Director
