Qatar Tourism and David Beckham have launched ‘Posts of Qatar’ a new series of art installations dotted around the most “Insta-worthy” spots across the country.
Each ‘Posts of Qatar’ installation has been created by an individual artist or a pair of artists, with two goalposts designed by artists from Qatar and the remaining eight by artists from nations that have previously won the tournament: England, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil.
The art installations reflect elements of each artist’s home country combined with aspects of Qatar’s rich cultural heritage. Qatar Tourism said this is “demonstrating the role that football can play in bringing together cultures from across the world.”
The embattled World Cup, which has seen brands boycott the tournament and even competing teams speaking out against it, is due to kick off on 21 November when the hosts play Ecuador.
Beckham visited the Lusail City Marina to snap a selfie of England’s goalposts. The former Real Madrid Galatico and Manchester United player has in for a lot of flack after reports emerged claiming that he was being paid $17.8 million to promote the tournament. Male homosexuality in Qatar can be punished by death. Beckham had previously declared himself a “gay icon” in 2007.
Any other fans that want to snap a selfie will be able to find the goal posts in “picture-perfect locations” including the “traditional and vibrant” Souq Waqif, the “serene” Inland Sea, the “beautiful” waterfront Museum of Islamic Art Park, The Pearl-Qatar and Katara Cultural Village, amongst others. The installations are open from 8 November to 20 December.
“As we prepare to welcome millions of visitors to Qatar over the next two months, we believe in showcasing our national landmarks through the distinctive creations of local and international artists. We encourage all visitors coming for the football to take advantage of their time here by exploring the country and experiencing Qatar’s culture first-hand,” said chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group chief executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker.