Qatar’s Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Park, located on a 62-acre site across from I.M. Pei’s museum building, held an inauguration ceremony this month with a new outdoor sculpture designed to enhance the setting. Titled “7,” an 80-foot sculpture by renowned artist Richard Serra is his tallest piece yet, and his first public work in the Middle East. Its name reflects the region’s cultural values, as the number seven has strong links to early Islamic astronomy and mathematics, as well as to references in the Qur’an.
 
The culture is also reflected in the site design as well. Designed by Pei Partnership Architects of New York, the crescent-shaped park starts at the MIA and hooks around into Doha Bay, referencing the iconic Islamic crescent. Lit pedestrian paths and a 2,600-foot-long palm-lined promenade follow the park’s curvature and lead to 12 acres of dunes offering views of the West Bay.
 
In addition to pedestrian paths and the sculpture park, MIA Park also comprises a recreation area and children’s playground, a water activity cove in Doha Bay, two cafes, and a kiosk. The park is set to officially open in January 2012, with additional phases and elements/amenities to come.
 
 To learn more about the museum and MIA Park, visit www.qma.org.qa.