Qatar Teddy Bears Display Pays Tribute to 15,000 Gaza Children Lost in Conflict

In a moving display of solidarity and remembrance, Doha has unveiled a striking art installation featuring 15,000 teddy bears, each representing a Palestinian child killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023.

The installation, titled ‘Echo of Lost Innocence’, was designed by Syrian artist Bachir Mohamad and is on display at the Barahat Msheireb open-air gallery from September 16 to 24, 2024. The exhibit symbolizes the profound human loss at the hands of Israeli military actions. 

Mohamad explained the purpose behind the installation: "It's a representation of how art and compassion can intersect to create a positive impact, to show people that the eyes can see numbers." 

The installation, which incorporates concrete blocks symbolizing Gaza's rubble, aims to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis. "I know that the number of items or the art sculptures here is vast, but this is nothing compared to what's happening nowadays in Palestine," Mohamad added. 

The latest report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) reveals that, since Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza, at least 10,627 of the 41,020 Palestinian fatalities have been children.

 A 649-page report circulated on social media lists the names, ages, and genders of those killed, noting that the first 14 pages list children under one year old. 

Thousands of children in Gaza are suffering from malnutrition, with the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) estimating that 1.1 million people are facing "catastrophic hunger and starvation" due to severe restrictions on food, water, and medical supplies. 

Mohamad emphasized the broader significance of his work, stating, "Palestine is an international language. It’s no longer just an Arab or Islamic issue; this is mainly about humanity." 

He also pointed out that the installation aims to raise funds for Gaza’s children, with 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the teddy bears going to aid efforts through Qatar Charity. 

The exhibit has received local support, with Msheireb Properties officials, including CEO Ali Al Kuwari and Senior Director of Corporate Communications Hafiz Ali Abdulla, attending the launch. 

Abdulla underscored the importance of the installation, stating, "I think it is very important for us all to always remember all the lives that have been lost to the war." The exhibit has received local support, with Msheireb Properties officials, including CEO Ali Al Kuwari and Senior Director of Corporate Communications Hafiz Ali Abdulla, attending the launch. 

Msheireb Museums is set to present a group exhibition called For the Children of Gaza, opening to the public on September 26 at Bin Jelmood House. This exhibition will build upon the themes explored in Mohamad’s installation and feature contributions from local artists who are promoting action and support for Gaza.