Suad Al Salem is a leading Qatari artist Known for her abstract expressionist style. A member of Qatar’s second generation of contemporary artists, her practice blends photography with traditional hand-printing techniques such as intaglio and relief printing Her practice draws from both local culture and shared global traditions, often exploring themes related to the experiences of Qatari women.
Driven by a deep belief in the power of visual language, Salem uses texture, symbolism, and emotional depth to communicate complex narratives. In 2010, she became the first artist to visually interpret an Arab manuscript for the Book in a Newspaper project—illustrating The Minds of the Mad by Al-Naysaburi, commissioned by the Mohammed bin Issa Al Jaber Foundation and UNESCO.
Beyond her studio work, Salem has made significant contributions to arts education in Qatar. In 2014, she established and led the Arts and Theater Department at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, where she directed the development of national visual arts curriculum standards.
Her work has been exhibited in Qatar and abroad and is included in public and private collections. Her artistic journey is documented in the book Suad Al-Salem: Drawing from the Farthest Vision (2010).
Her work has been exhibited in Qatar and abroad and is included in public and private collections. Her artistic journey is documented in the book Suad Al-Salem: Drawing from the Farthest Vision (2010).