Unruly Waters (myhun jamuwH) brings maritime history and contemporary art into conversation through the movement of water, people and goods. Organised by Qatar Museums, the exhibition explores how monsoons, trade winds and ocean currents have shaped encounters between cultures, and how those connections continue to affect life today.
Its title comes from historian Sunil Amrith’s book about the relationship between water and humanity. Visitors interested in art, maritime history or cultural exchange will find these subjects connected through historic objects and contemporary commissions.
Shipwreck artefacts and contemporary perspectives
A central highlight is a selection of artefacts from the tenth-century Cirebon shipwreck, discovered off Java, Indonesia. These objects from Qatar Museums’ collections appear alongside works from the Museum of Islamic Art and contemporary commissions, offering ways to consider the Maritime Silk Road’s commercial and cultural connections.
The commissions also relate these histories to Qatar’s role as a meeting point. Featured artists include Yousef Ahmad, Bani Abidi, Cao Fei, Shilpa Gupta, Ayoung Kim and Wael Shawky, among many others.
Where the exhibition takes place
The exhibition is scheduled for 21 November 2026 to 30 April 2027. Its main venue is ALRIWAQ Arts + Architecture, with additional presentations at the nearby Museum of Islamic Art and in MIA Park. The programme therefore extends beyond a single exhibition venue.
