In this edition of QL Flashback Fridays, we take a look back at the stunning monoliths in the middle of the Qatari desert. 

Considered as one of Richard Serra's masterpiece, the East-West/West-East is an art installation comprising four gigantic steel plates. Each monolith is as tall as 50 feet!

Commissioned by Qatar Museums, these monoliths enrich Qatar's rapidly flourishing art scene and have gained world praise. 

To guarantee perfect alignment, Serra examined the topography of the land and beautifully enhanced the vast, desolate space in the heart of the Bronx nature reserve. The result is spectacular. It is modern yet timeless.

The top of the four plates are level and are 10 centimeters thick each. They're positioned at equal intervals over one kilometer, they offer a visual center point to an otherwise vast and empty desert-scape.

Serra, who is recognized as one of the greatest sculptors in the world, said "This is the most fulfilling thing I've ever done. It's a piece I'd really like to be seen."

The four steel plates of this magnificent art installation were constructed in Germany, shipped, and placed by crane within the desert.

The location of the artwork is particularly significant as Serra believes public places allow viewers to interact with each particular piece, making the work more meaningful. 

According to Serra, his art is driven by the desire to “take sculpture off the pedestal and into the street”.

Have you seen them yet? Are you willing to take a trip to see it for yourself? 

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Cover Image Credit: Qatar Museum