To celebrate and explore the deep cultural ties between Qatar and Indonesia, the Years of Culture initiative is bringing traditional Indonesian arts and crafts workshops to Doha this September, in partnership with M7 and Liwan Design Studios and Labs.

The workshops were designed by the Years of Culture team in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Research of the Republic of Indonesia, and with Indonesian artisans and experts. The workshops will cover crafts such as ceramics, puppet-making, dance, and batik-making.

According to Aisha Ghanem Al Attiya, Director of Cultural Diplomacy at Qatar Museums, it is always important for them at the Years of Culture initiative to create tangible connections between the cultures being celebrated each year and the people of Qatar. She said that the workshops serve as a bridge, connecting people through shared creativity, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and preserving the rich heritage of Indonesia.

We hope that hands-on, accessible engagement allows participants to gain a profound appreciation for the value of tradition, artistry and craftsmanship, reinforcing the bonds that unite Qatar and Indonesia in a celebration of our thriving creative industries.

The workshops are accessible to participants of all skill levels. Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance through the Qatar Creates website.

Puppet-Making Workshop (2-4 Sep)

Delve into the enchanting realm of puppetry, a revered Indonesian tradition, by crafting ornate puppets under the guidance of master puppeteers. Learn the stories behind these captivating characters and gain insight into the intersection of art and storytelling.

In this 90-minute workshop, participants will learn about the Javanese tradition of straw puppets called Wayang Suket. The workshop will open with an introduction and discussion about the history, forms, characters, and philosophy of Wayang Suket. Participants will then create their own versions and stage mini-performances.

Target age of participants: 10+ 
Venue: Liwan Design Studios and Labs
Entry fee: QAR75

Batik-Making Workshop (9-12 Sep)

Uncover the secrets of Batik, a centuries-old technique of wax-resistant dyeing and create vibrant designs, guided by experts who will walk you through each step of the intricate process. Two types of workshops are available for different age groups:

The one-hour session will introduce participants to the Indonesian art of batik, designing a pattern with wax and colouring the material. All guests will take their materials home after the session.

Target age of participants: Aged 10+  
Venue: M7
Entry fee: QAR50

The three-hour session will focus on creating a pattern and colouring a shawl-sized piece of material.

Target age of participants: 16+ 
Venue: M7
Entry fee: QAR75

Ceramics Workshop (21-24 Sep)

Skilled artisans will guide participants in the intricate art of ceramics, moulding clay into beautiful pottery. Participants will be able to take their creations home. This is a four-and-a-half-hour workshop.

Target age of participants: 14+ 
Venue: Liwan Design Studios and Labs
Entry fee: QAR100

Dance Workshop (28/30 Sep)

Enjoy the rhythm and energy of Indonesian dance in this dynamic workshop. Learn traditional movements from experienced dancers, and explore the diverse dance forms that bring the richness of Indonesia’s heritage to life. Participants will learn the Tari Merak dance that hails from West Java and learn the philosophy and history of the dance, also known as the Peacock Dance.

No prior dance knowledge is required, and participants are advised to wear comfortable gym clothes.

Target age of participants: 16+ 
Venue: TBC
Entry fee: QAR50 

Follow this link for more information about the workshops.  

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