Richard Serra's EastWest/WestEast Sculpture Tourism

Richard Serra's East-West/West-East is an art installation located in the Brouq Nature Reserve, near Dukhan on the west coast of Qatar. This sculpture spans over a kilometer of land and consists of four steel plates, each standing over 14 meters high. Installed in 2014, the monumental pieces are aligned with each other and positioned to perfectly frame the natural corridors formed by the gypsum plateaus surrounding them. The industrial character of the steel contrasts with the timeless geological formations, presenting a dialogue between the ephemeral nature of human existence and the timeless quality of the desert landscape. The oxidation of the steel results in an ever-changing surface that interacts with the environmental conditions, echoing the natural processes of the desert. Serra, known for his large-scale public artworks and usage of corten steel, designed this sculpture specifically for the desert of Qatar, considering both the geographic isolation and the panoramic desert expanse. The artwork has become a landmark for visitors seeking an immersive experience of art in dialogue with nature.