World Cup mural gig helps Doha artist turn hobby into lifeline

Filipino painter Michael Conjusta was hired by Qatari authorities to paint graffiti murals during the 2022 World Cup. Doha, Qatar – Michael Conjusta, a Doha-based freelance artist was going about his day one August afternoon when he received an unexpected WhatsApp message with an offer to paint graffiti murals at football stadiums during the FIFA 2022 World Cup. But I was one of the few people they chose … it’s a big pleasure for me.” Conjusta, who has been living in Doha since 1998, had initially thought of volunteering for the tournament before it began but figured the stress would be a “big headache” to add to his continuing work commitments. ‘My passion’ For the tournament, Conjusta has been tasked with painting murals at most games held at Al Bayt and Lusail stadiums, the two largest venues hosting matches at the World Cup. “I’m one of those dreamers,” Conjusta said, comparing his life to the World Cup soundtrack “Dreamers” by Jungkook, a member of the K-pop band BTS.