Outpouring of heartbroken comments as QM decommissions iconic Dugong Sculpture
Situated at Al Masrah Park near Corniche, the sculpture was originally commissioned for a six-month period.
Published: 1 July 2024
NT Bureau
Doha
Qatar Museums (QM) has officially announced the decommissioning of the iconic Dugong sculpture, created by renowned American artist Jeff Koons, situated along the Corniche.
The announcement follows earlier speculation on social media about the possible dismantling of the famous art installation, which has stood as a landmark in Doha’s Al Masrah Park for the past 18 months.
Standing 24 metres high and stretching over 32 metres long, the sculpture has been a striking feature along Doha’s Corniche.
Originally commissioned for a six-month stay during the 2022 FIFA World Cup to celebrate Qatar’s rich natural heritage, its presence was extended by an additional year due to overwhelming public support and admiration.
In a recent post, Qatar Museums shared their gratitude in a farewell message: “For the last 18 months, Jeff Koons’ iconic Dugong sculpture has stood proudly in Al Masrah Park overlooking Doha’s Corniche.
Originally commissioned for a six-month stay during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in celebration of Qatar’s natural heritage, its vibrant presence was extended for an additional year due to the incredible public reception. As we bid farewell to this beloved sculpture, we are thankful to Jeff Koons and his team for creating such a magnificent work that became an iconic part of our city during this key moment in our history.”
The announcement was met with an outpouring of heartbroken comments from the Qatari artistic community and the public, many of whom have called for the captivating sculpture to remain in Qatar’s capital. One moving comment on the QM post read, “I’m so sad. My one-year-old always waves at it from her car seat every time we pass by it,” Farah Altaweel said on Instagram.
“Make it permanent please, that was my everyday view while driving to work, sad to see it go,” said Reiham Soliman. “Not very sustainable to remove this intact piece of art, which has become an icon on Doha’s Corniche! So sad to see our Dugong being dismantled,” wrote Gerda Kassing.
The sculpture, part of the larger Qatar Creates cultural movement, was launched in 2022 to commemorate the World Cup. Qatar Creates is a year-round national cultural initiative aimed at curating, promoting, and celebrating the diverse cultural activities within the country.
The Dugong sculpture, with its vibrant colours and massive presence, has not only commemorated a significant global event but also become a beloved piece of public art for residents and visitors alike.
As the dismantling process begins, the absence of the Dugong sculpture will undoubtedly leave a void in Al Masrah Park and the hearts of many who admired it.
