Celebrating the richness and diversity of Muslim civilization's Golden Age, the ongoing Arabick Roots exhibition continues to pique the interest of inquisitive minds with a record-breaking number of visitors at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). The exhibition was opened by Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of QMA on Oct. 16. Together, Arabick Roots and 1001 Inventions exhibitions have attracted over 85,000 visitors. Arabick Roots, the international exhibition which traces the untold story of how knowledge from Muslim civilization inspired the scientific revolution in Europe, has already welcomed an unprecedented 13,000 visitors with three weeks still scheduled for viewing. The exhibit, especially produced for Qatari audiences by 1001 Inventions in collaboration with MIA, is brought to Doha through a partnership between MIA, QMA, 1001 Inventions and Qatar Shell. The exhibition is of particular interest to educators and students, as part of MIA's aim to equip and inspire them to be 21st century knowledge transmitters and producers. “The record-breaking number of children who visited this exhibition has been a great source of pride and also a lesson to us on the substance and design that our young audiences respond to,” said Aisha Al-Khater, Director, Museum of Islamic Art. “I am also immensely pleased with the success of the educational outreach program and the number of schools the museum has engaged.” “It is true that we owe our rich scientific heritage to cultures and civilizations worldwide, but it is also our obligation towards our youth to inform them about our past achievements, as well as inspire and enlighten their path to move forward,” she added. 1001 Inventions, which closed last month after celebrating 72,000 visitors, was visited by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who met with the young science explainers working inside the specially-built marquee that housed the award-winning exhibition. Ahmed Salim, Producer and Director of 1001 Inventions, said: “We're amazed by the success of 1001 Inventions in Doha, and honored that that His Highness the Emir endorsed the good work that was achieved here. We're particularly pleased to note that this has been the most popular science show to ever launch in Qatar, and the independent research demonstrates that 1001 Inventions has engendered pride and enthusiasm in this hidden history of scientific excellence in Muslim civilization.” – SG
