CATHERINE W GICHUKI

DOHA THE four winners of the ‘Capture of Essence of Qatar’ photography competition, organised by Qatar Museums Authority (QMA) in collaboration with New Doha International Airport (NDIA) were announced and awarded at a reception dinner held at the Museum of Islamic Art Education Center, on Monday.

The event was attended by Qatar Airways CEO Akbar al Baker and QMA officials.

Arioseto Kusuma Adi won was the first place in the contest.

He showcased a photograph of dhows at the Corniche with skyscrapers in West Bay being seen from a distance.

Other winners were Hussein Mohammad al Shafi’i, Muhammad al Misnad and Sarah Abd al Majid. The photographs included one of a town with a mosque in it, classroom and camel.

Each of the winners received a prize of QR20, 000. The images submitted represented the heritage and culture of Qatar in line with the 2030 National Vision.

They were classified under one of the four themes of Qatar National Vision 2030 which include human, social, economic and environmental development.

Speaking to Qatar Tribune, QMA Education Manager Halal al Khalifa said the winning photographs would be displayed in a prominent position in the departure hall of the NDIA once it opened.

She said in addition, the works of the other 30 short listed photographs will be showcased at an exquisite expo, date and venue of which will be announced later.

Commenting on the importance of the competition, she said, “This national competition brought together professional and amateur photographers living in Qatar. It was open to all people with love for photography and the camera, whether they are Qataris or local residents from any nationality.

Winner of the competition, Muhammad al Misnad, a Qatari, who showcased a photograph of a classroom setting said education was a key tool for the development of any country.