Doha, Qatar: The Painting and Printmaking Program at VCUarts Qatar, in collaboration with the Visual, Literary and Drama Section of the Department of Educational Guidance, Ministry of Education and Higher Education – Qatar, announced the second edition of the High School Fine Art Award.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, this year’s award invites Grade 11 and 12 students from public high schools across Qatar to respond to the theme “Nature & the Self.” Through visual media such as painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, video, animation, and digital art, students will explore the deep connections between the natural world and personal experience.
The theme, Nature & the Self, encourages young artists to reflect on how elements of nature can symbolize inner worlds—memory, growth, resilience, and identity. From the olive tree as a symbol of endurance to the desert wind as a metaphor for strength, students are invited to express how natural forms and materials serve as mirrors for their personal stories.
Eligible media include painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, digital art, video art, mixed media, and animation. Students will submit their artwork directly to the Painting and Printmaking (PAPR) Department at VCUarts Qatar through the online application form. Students may scan the QR code or click: https://vcu.jotform.com/form/252491030965457.
The top three works in each category will be awarded a Certificate of Achievement, an artistic gift from VCUarts Qatar, and the opportunity to participate in an official exhibition at VCUarts Qatar. Winners will also have the chance to present their work in the prestigious Al Jadeed Auction, a new auction category introduced by Al Bahie, in partnership with VCUarts Qatar, dedicated to showcasing contemporary art by both established and emerging talents from Doha. They will also attend an exclusive Master Class with international artist Khaled Hafez. All participating students will receive a Certificate of Appreciation.
An award ceremony and exhibition opening will take place on 16 November 2025, with the public exhibition continuing through December at Saffron Hall, VCUarts Qatar.
