VCUarts Qatar-20thAnniversaryBook

With Special Appreciation // His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatar // His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir Founder, Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development // Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Co-founder and Chairperson, Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development // Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani Vice Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development // Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani Chairperson of Qatar Museums, Doha Film Institute and Reach Out to Asia

© Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, 2018 All rights reserved under international copyright conventions. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic

or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

Table of Contents Message from Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Message from Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani Message from Michael Rao, Ph.D. Message from Dean Shawn Brixey Message from Dean Donald Baker, Ph.D. The Joint Advisory Board The Deans // Section 1: An Incubator of Innovation 2 Addressing Qatar’s Heritage and Vision 4 The Impact of 20 years of Partnership between Virginia Commonwealth University and Qatar Foundation 16 About VCU and VCUarts // Section 2: Cultivating the Arts 20 A History of VCUarts Qatar: Where Art and Design Education Foster Social Change 26 Programs B.A. in Art History B.F.A. in Fashion Design B.F.A. in Graphic Design B.F.A. in Interior Design B.F.A. in Painting + Printmaking M.F.A. in Design 38 Educating the Whole Student Art Foundation Liberal Arts & Sciences Courses The Honors Program The Writing Center and Library Student Affairs 44 Tasmeem Doha: Cultivating Leaders in a Collaborative Environment 50 The Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art 52 VCUarts Qatar’s Annual Fashion Show—A Platform for the Future of Fashion // Section 3: Igniting Imagination 60 Champions of Art and Design 68 Power in Collaboration 78 Making an Impact—Research in Context // Section 4: Shaping the Future 92 Making Museums Matter: Featuring Reem Al-Thani 96 Raising the Creative Voice: Featuring Othman Khunji 100 Sculpted by Ambition: Featuring Hana Al-Saadi 102 Developing an Innovation Economy: Featuring Amin Matni 104 VCUarts Qatar’s Finest: Artists and Designers Leading the Way 114 Building a Vibrant Community in Qatar // Section 5: 20 Years of Excellence // Section 6: The Community 132 Alumni 2008–2018 136 Faculty and Staff 1998–2018 138 Research Accomplishments 2008–2018 144 Faculty and Student Reflections

‫‪This book is dedicated to the 642 alumni who have graduated‬‬ ‫‪from Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in‬‬ ‫‪Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) since its foundation in 1998, and to the faculty,‬‬ ‫‪staff and administrators who contributed to their education.‬‬ ‫‪VCUarts Qatar enjoys a rich history, building on the strengths‬‬ ‫‪and diversity of a global cast of contributors and a home campus‬‬ ‫‪with a tradition of fostering community development. ‬‬

‫‪Proud to be the anchor university of Qatar Foundation’s Educa‬‬‫‪tion City, VCUarts Qatar believes its unique DNA that is creative,‬‬ ‫‪dynamic, curious and original has made Qatar a bit more creative,‬‬ ‫‪dynamic, curious and original too. Explore what this looks like‬‬ ‫‪for VCUarts Qatar graduates and Qatar as a whole, and join‬‬ ‫‪the University in its next stage of designing the future.‬‬

‫إهــداء إلــى جميــع خريجــي جامعــة فرجينيــا كومنولــث كليــة فنــون التصميــم‬ ‫فــي قطــر‪ ،‬والبالــغ عددهــم اليــوم ســتمائة واثنيــن وأربعيــن خريجـ ًا وخريجــة‪.‬‬ ‫إهــداء إلــى كل أعضــاء الهيئــة التدريســية والموظفيــن واإلدارييــن الذيــن‬ ‫ســاهموا فــي تعليمهــم وإعدادهــم‪ .‬تتميــز جامعــة فرجينيــا كومنولــث كليــة‬ ‫فنــون التصميــم فــي قطــر بتاريــخ غنــي‪ ،‬شــكلته نقــاط القــوة والتنــوع فــي‬ ‫الحــرم الجامعــي األم ومجموعــة عالميــة مــن المســاهمين مــع االحتفــاظ‬ ‫بالتقاليــد التــي تعــزز تنميــة المجتمــع‪.‬‬ ‫تقــدم الذكــرى الســنوية العشــرون فرصــة فريــدة لالحتفــال اليــوم بجامعــة‬ ‫فرجينيــا كومنولــث كليــة فنــون التصميــم فــي قطــر فــي ســياق مــن‬ ‫الماضــي والمســتقبل والتفكيــر فــي تأثيرنــا علــى نمــو دولــة قطــر‪ .‬يقــدم‬ ‫هــذا الكتــاب لمحــة عــن تطورنــا وإنجازاتنــا ومســاهماتنا مــع التركيــز وبشــكل‬ ‫خــاص علــى الســنوات العشــر الماضيــة‪ ،‬مكمليــن مــا ســطره كتــاب الذكــرى‬ ‫الســنوية العاشــرة «‪ .»Leaving a Mark: A Decade of Design‬ونحــن اليــوم‪،‬‬ ‫وفــي عامنــا العشــرين‪ ،‬نحتفــل بنتــاج إنجازاتنــا فــي «غــرس الفنون‪ ،‬وإشــعال‬ ‫الخيــال وتشــكيل المســتقبل»‪.‬‬

‫إهداء‬ ‫‪Dedication‬‬

‫‪The 20th anniversary presents a unique opportunity to celebrate‬‬ ‫‪VCUarts Qatar today in the context of its past and future and reflect‬‬ ‫‪on its impact on Qatar. This book provides a snapshot of the Univer‬‬‫‪sity’s growth and contributions to Qatar with a special emphasis on‬‬ ‫‪the last 10 years, and is a companion to its 10th-anniversary book‬‬ ‫‪Leaving a Mark: A Decade of Design. In VCUarts Qatar’s 20th year,‬‬ ‫‪the University celebrates its impact on “cultivating the arts,‬‬ ‫”‪igniting imagination and shaping the future.‬‬

‫نفخــر بــأن نكــون الجامعــة األولــى فــي مؤسســة قطــر فــي المدينــة‬ ‫التعليميــة‪ ،‬ونعتقــد أن حمضنــا النــووي األصلــي والفريــد‪ ،‬والمبــدع‬ ‫والديناميكــي والفضولــي جعــل دولــة قطــر أكثــر إبداع ـ ًا وديناميكيــة وغرابــة‬ ‫أيضـ ًا‪ .‬ونحــن اليــوم وفــي هــذا الكتــاب‪ ،‬ندعوكــم لمشــاركتنا فــي استكشــاف‬ ‫وســطر هــذا اإلبــداع نحــو خريجينــا وقطــر ككل‪ ،‬نشــجعكم علــى االنضمــام‬ ‫إلينــا فــي المرحلــة المقبلــة مــن تصميــم وتشــكيل المســتقبل‪.‬‬ ‫‪// Work by Wadha Al Hassan (B.F.A. ′17),‬‬ ‫‪Gift Wrap Book project, 2016.‬‬ ‫‪Source: Nathan Davis‬‬

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser

Twenty years ago, Qatar Foundation found a valuable partner in Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts. We built our partnership on a shared mission to promote a culture of excellence and a deep-rooted interest in supporting an open society so that young artists and designers could find solutions to critical challenges and inspire social and economic prosperity.

Co-founder and Chairperson, Qatar Foundation

At the heart of this collaboration are the students who, for the past 17 graduating classes, continue to alter Qatar’s cultural landscape through their empowered work. As emerging artists and designers, they have led with courage to explore their traditions, expand societal dialogue and foster an inclusive culture based on humanistic ideals and diverse points of view. VCUarts Qatar, as an incubator of innovative ideas, brought together expertise from various art and design arenas to bolster these students and drive powerful ideas towards real-world practices.

The tradition of innovation that led Qatar Foundation to partner with VCUarts two decades ago is as vibrant as ever. The desire to better our societies brought us together, and for 20 years we have been working together to discover and implement best practices in teaching, learning and research, rooted in cultural traditions and reinvigorated by new technologies and methods to enable the coming generations to confidently navigate the future.

‫ جامعة‬،‫ وجدت مؤسسة قطر في كلية الفنون‬،‫قبل عشرين عام ًا‬ ‫ وقامت هذه الشراكة على تعزيز ثقافة‬.‫قيم ًا‬ ّ ‫فرجينيا كومنولث شريك ًا‬ ‫التميز واالهتمام الراسخ في دعم مجتمع مفتوح من الفنانين الشباب‬ ّ ‫والمصممين القادرين على إيجاد حلول لمختلف التحديات بما يجعله‬ .‫ملهِ م ًا للرخاء االجتماعي واالقتصادي‬ ‫ وعلى مدى تعاقب سبع عشرة دفعة‬،‫كان الطلبة هم جوهر هذا التعاون‬ ‫ واصلوا العمل على تغيير المشهد الثقافي لدولة قطر من خالل‬،‫من الخريجين‬ ،‫ تولوا القيادة‬،‫ وكونهم فنانين ومصممين ناشئين‬.‫عملهم الدؤوب والمتقن‬ ‫ الستكشاف تقاليدهم وتوسيع الحوار المجتمعي وتعزيز ثقافة‬،‫وبشجاعة‬ ‫ قامت جامعة‬.‫المثـل اإلنسانية ومختلف وجهات النظر‬ ُ ‫شاملة تقوم على‬ ‫ باعتبارها مصدر ًا لألفكار‬،‫فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬ ‫ بجمع الخبرات من مختلف مجاالت الفن والتصميم لدعم هؤالء‬،‫المبتكرة‬ .‫الطالب ودفع األفكار الراقية والمستحدثة نحو الممارسات الواقعية‬ ‫إن تقاليد االبتكار التي قامت عليها شراكة مؤسسة قطر مع جامعة فرجينيا‬ .‫ ما زالت تنبض بالحياة كما كانت دائم ًا‬،‫كومنولث قبل عقدين من الزمان‬ ‫ فعملنا خالل تلك الفترة‬،‫لقد جمعتنا الرغبة مع ًا في تحسين مجتمعاتنا‬ ‫على اكتشاف وتنفيذ أفضل الممارسات المستمدة من تقاليدنا الثقافية في‬ ‫التعليم والتدريس والبحث وإعادة تنشيطها من خالل التقنيات واألساليب‬ .‫الجديدة لتمكين األجيال القادمة من االنتقال الواثق إلى المستقبل‬ ،‫ئ قيادة جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬ ُ ‫أه ّن‬ ‫كما أه ّنئ أعضاء الهيئة التدريسية والموظفين والطلبة بمناسبة الذكرى‬ ‫ تحتفل مؤسسة قطر بكم وأتمنى لكم التوفيق في‬،‫السنوية العشرين‬ .‫عقد مقبل من النجاح‬ // VCUarts Qatar’s main entrance, December 2012.

‫موزا بنت ناصر‬ ‫ رئيس مجلس إدارة مؤسسة قطر‬،‫المؤسس المشارك‬ ‫للتربية والعلوم وتنمية المجتمع‬

Congratulations to the VCUarts Qatar leadership, faculty, staff and students on your 20th anniversary. Qatar Foundation celebrates you and wishes you the best for your next decade of success.

Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani

As Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) marks its 20th anniversary, this milestone represents an opportunity for the University and Qatar Foundation to reflect on and celebrate our shared journey, and look to where it may lead us in the future.

Vice Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Qatar Foundation

‫ عام ًا على تأسيس جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية‬20 ‫يُشكّل االحتفال بمرور‬ ‫فنون التصميم في قطر محطة مهمة في مسيرة مؤسسة قطر وجامعة فرجينيا‬ ‫ التي تحف ّزنا‬،‫ وذلك للتأكيد على المضي قدم ًا في مساعينا المشتركة‬،‫كومنولث‬ .‫على استشراف مستقبل أفضل‬ ٍ ‫ فعندما‬،‫بمكانة خاصة في رحلة مؤسسة قطر‬ ‫تتمتع جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث‬ ّ ٍ ‫للتميز‬ ‫تصور للمدينة التعليمية وألول مرة في قطر كنموذج رائد‬ ‫تم وضع‬ ّ ّ ٍ ‫اختصاصات‬ ‫ أدركنا أهمية وجود الجامعات الرائدة القادرة على توفير‬،‫األكاديمي‬ ‫ وبالفعل كانت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث أولى‬.‫لبي احتياجاتنا الوطنية‬ ّ ُ‫متنوعة ت‬ ،‫هذه الجامعات التي تم استقطابها إلى المدينة التعليمية كركيزة أساسية‬ ٍ ‫وجهة تعليمية رائدة في التصميم والفنون بما يُساهم في إثراء‬ ‫لما تُمثله من‬ ‫ أضحت هذه‬،‫ واليوم‬.‫ وصقل المهارات اإلبداعية لطالبنا‬،‫الثقافة القطرية‬ ‫ ما أثبت مكانة‬،‫التميز األكاديمي في المنطقة‬ ‫الجامعة واحد ًة من أبرز مراكز‬ ّ .‫ وفي بناء مجتمعات فاعلة ومؤثرة‬،‫قطر ودورها في دعم االبتكار واإلبداع‬ ّ ،‫ ومنحة‬،‫ وخريج‬،‫ ومختبر واستوديو‬،‫نامج جديد‬ ّ ‫مع االحتفاء‬ ‫وكل مبادرة‬ ٍ ‫بكل بر‬ ‫ تكون جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث قد حققت هد ًفا من قائمة األهداف‬،‫مجتمعية‬ ‫ إذ احتضنت هذه الجامعة الطلبة‬.‫التي وضعناها مع ًا وعملنا سوي ًا على إنجازها‬ ‫ بما مك ّنهم‬،‫وزودتهم بالمهارات الالزمة لتحقيق تطلعاتهم‬ ّ ،‫المتميزين وألهمتهم‬ ّ .‫من بناء اقتصاد متنوع ومستدام قائم على المعرفة في القرن الواحد والعشرين‬ ،‫اليوم يتبوأ خريجونا العديد من المناصب القيادية في المؤسسات الحكومية‬ ،‫ واإلعالم‬،‫ والرياضة‬،‫ وقطاع الترفيه‬،‫ ومشاريع البنية التحتية‬،‫والشركات الخاصة‬ ٌ ‫ وما هذا إال‬،‫ومجاالت أخرى‬ ‫حسي على مساهمة مؤسسة قطر في دعم‬ ّ ‫دليل‬ .‫التقدم االجتماعي والثقافي واالقتصادي‬ ‫مسيرة الدولة نحو مزيد من‬ ّ ‫لقد نجحت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث في قطر في تعزيز مكانتها كموجهة تعليمية‬ ،‫متميزة بين مؤسسات التعليم العالي الرائدة في البالد على مدى عشرون عام ًا‬ ‫القيمين عليها في أداء‬ ّ ‫ وتفاني‬،‫ والعمل الجاد‬،‫وذلك من خالل الجهود المشتركة‬ ‫ السيد‬،‫ انطالق ًا من الرؤية الحكيمة لرؤساء الجامعة السابقين والحاليين‬،‫رسالتهم‬ ّ ‫ وذلك في‬،‫ والدكتور مايكل راو‬،‫يوجين تراني‬ ‫ظل رؤية صاحبة السمو الشيخة موزا‬ ‫ وفي‬،‫ التي تُشكّل مصدر إلهام لنا‬،‫بنت ناصر رئيس مجلس إدارة مؤسسة قطر‬ .‫إطار حرص سموها المستمر على أهمية التعليم كحجر أساس في بناء المجتمعات‬ .‫وإننا لفخورون بتحقيق هذه الرؤية بمساندة شركاؤنا في العملية التعليمية‬ ‫حق جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث أن تفخر بما حققته من نجاحات خالل العقدين‬ ّ ‫من‬ ‫ حيث أكدت على دورها الرئيسي في توفير بيئة محف ّزة متعددة‬،‫المنصرمين‬ ‫ وتوفيرها ألفضل الوسائل‬،‫التخصصات للطالب من خالل مناهجها المبتكرة‬ ‫ نتطلع إلى مواصلة مساعينا‬.‫التعليمية على المستويين األكاديمي والفردي‬ ‫ بما يحقق‬،‫المشتركة وإلى تعزيز أواصر التعاون الوثيق في السنوات القادمة‬ .‫منفعة لمجتمعاتنا وللعالم بأسره‬ ‫ وبما فيه‬،‫أهدافنا المشتركة‬ ً ‫نتقدم بالتهنئة لجامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر على‬ ٍ ‫ما حققته من إنجاز‬ ‫ وأتمنى ألعضاء‬،‫عاما الماضية‬ ً ‫ات على مدى العشرين‬ ّ ‫ والخريجين‬،‫ والطالب‬،‫ والموظفين‬،‫هيئة التدريس‬ .‫كل النجاح في المستقبل‬ ‫سعادة الشيخة هند بنت حمد آل ثاني‬ ‫نائب رئيس مجلس اإلدارة والرئيس التنفيذي لمؤسسة قطر‬

VCUarts Qatar has a special place in the Qatar Foundation story.

When the unique academic model of Education City was first envisaged, it recognized the necessity of combining homegrown educational institutions with leading international universities whose specializations aligned with Qatar’s needs. VCUarts Qatar was the first of these alliances.

Established as a platform for nurturing Qatar’s cultural and creative fabric, the Qatar campus of Virginia Commonwealth University was chosen as a cornerstone of Education City because of its home campus’ established reputation as a leading art and design school. It has since become one of the region’s foremost centers of academic excellence, testament to Qatar’s recognition of the role of creative expression in fostering a vibrant, engaged society.

With every new program, laboratory, studio, graduate, grant and community initiative, VCUarts Qatar has delivered on the hopes we held for the institution at its inception. It has inspired and nurtured exceptional students, equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in the global, knowledge-based economy of the 21st century. Its alumni have assumed leadership positions in every sector of Qatar society, from government to retail, infrastructure, entertainment, sport and media, contributing significantly to the nation’s social, cultural and economic progress.

Its place among the leading institutions of higher learning in Qatar has been secured only through the hard work and selfless devotion of many people. It has thrived under the visionary leadership of former and current VCU presidents, Eugene Trani, Ph.D., and Michael Rao, Ph.D. With its guide and inspiration being the belief of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, in the power of education, it has proudly epitomized her vision.

VCUarts Qatar should be proud of everything it has achieved in these past two decades. Its outstanding faculty, its innovative curriculum, and the way in which it nurtures students academically and personally, reaffirm its place as a pillar of Qatar’s ecosystem of knowledge and discovery.

I truly hope that Qatar Foundation and VCUarts Qatar will work together even more closely in the years ahead, for the good of Qatar and the world. I congratulate our longstanding partner university on its accomplishments over the past 20 years, and wish its faculty, staff, students and graduates every success in the future.

Michael Rao, Ph.D.

As the top-ranked public arts graduate program in the United States, VCU became the first American university to come to Education City in Doha when Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser asked the university to develop the region’s first design curriculum. Evolving from a high-quality university with a female-only enrollment, VCUarts Qatar is now a world-class provider of exemplary arts education to a student population that spans the globe.

President, VCU and VCU Health System

‫بناء على طلب صاحبة السمو الشيخة موزا بنت ناصر ورغبتها في تطوير أول‬ ‫ كانت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث أول جامعة‬،‫برنامج في التصميم في المنطقة‬ ‫ لتصنيفها في المرتبة العليا‬،‫أمريكية تنضم إلى المدينة التعليمية في الدوحة‬ ‫ تطورت‬.‫كأفضل برنامج جامعي في مجال الفنون العامة في الواليات المتحدة‬ ‫جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر من جامعة تقدم برامج‬ ‫ إلى جامعة توفر تخصصات عالمية‬،‫عالية الجودة مخصصة للسيدات فقط‬ .‫المستوى في الفن والتصميم للطالب من جميع أنحاء العالم‬ ‫ والرئيس السابق‬،‫كان رئيس جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث آنذاك يوجين تراني‬ ‫ سعادة الشيخ‬،‫لجامعة حمد بن خليفة ونائب رئيس التعليم في مؤسسة قطر‬ ‫ من العوامل األساسية التي عملت على‬،‫الدكتور عبد الله بن علي آل ثاني‬ ‫ أن أعرب عن‬،‫ أنا وزمالئي‬،‫ يشرفني ويسعدني‬.‫تأسيس وتطور هذه الجامعة‬ ‫امتناني لجهودهم في تطوير ما يعرف اليوم بمؤسسة عالمية معروفة للفن‬ ‫ الرئيس الحالي‬،‫ الدكتور أحمد حسنة‬.‫واالبتكار والتعاون متعدد التخصصات‬ ‫ هو قائد مثالي يعمل على نجاح‬،‫لجامعة حمد بن خليفة وعضو مؤسسة قطر‬ .‫الجامعة لألجيال القادمة‬ ‫ونحن بدورنا ممتنون لرؤية سمو الشيخ حمد بن خليفة آل ثاني وصاحبة السمو‬ ‫ عملت خبرتهم ورؤيتهم على ارتقاء جامعة فرجينيا‬.‫الشيخة موزا بنت ناصر‬ ‫كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر لتصبح جامعة رائدة في الفن والتصميم‬ ‫أتم االستعداد ليصبحوا قادة مبدعين‬ ّ ‫ يتخرج طالبنا وهم على‬،‫ اليوم‬.‫واالبتكار‬ .‫يكرسون جهودهم لجعل العالم مكان ًا أفضل ألجيال قادمة ال حصر لها‬ ‫نفخر بجهود جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر في استرداد‬ ‫ من مصر‬،‫ نفخر بكل مجتمع قائم على المعرفة‬.‫وإثراء التراث لألجيال القادمة‬ ‫ قام بتقييم اإلبداع وتكريمه واستخدامه في إثراء‬،‫القديمة إلى قطر الحديثة‬ ‫ يعمل أعضاء مجتمع جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في‬.‫الحياة‬ ‫ على الحفاظ‬،2030 ‫قطر عبر تخصصاتهم وباستخدام معايير رؤية قطر الوطنية‬ ‫ إن العمل الذي قاموا به الستعادة تاريخ قطر وسرده‬.‫على ثقافة الدولة الغنية‬ .‫أمر ضروري لمستقبل األمة‬ ‫ سيفيد العمل الذي قمنا به مع ًا‬.‫يشرفني أن أكون جزء ًا من هذا النجاح‬ ‫ وسيخدم دولة قطر والعالم‬،‫وعلى مدى عشرين عاما األجيال القادمة‬ .‫لسنوات عديدة قادمة‬ ‫ مايكل راو‬.‫د‬ ‫رئيس جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث ورئيس النظام الصحي‬

Then-president of VCU, Eugene Trani, and former president of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and vice president for education at Qatar Foundation, Abdullah Bin Ali Al-Thani, were key to the founding of VCUarts Qatar. Along with my colleagues, I am grateful for their guidance in the development of what is today an institution globally known for arts, innovation and crossdisciplinary collaboration. Dr. Ahmad M. Hasnah, the current president of HBKU and a Qatar Foundation member, is an exemplary leader and will ensure the university’s success for future generations.

I am also grateful for the vision of His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. Their expertise is why VCUarts Qatar is a respected leader in art, design and innovation. Today, students graduate from VCUarts Qatar prepared to be creative leaders dedicated to making our world better for countless generations.

I am proud of VCUarts Qatar’s efforts to reclaim the state’s narrative for future generations. Every knowledge-based society from ancient Egypt to modern Qatar has valued creativity as a currency to be accrued, esteemed and used to enrich lives. Using the standards set by Qatar National Vision 2030, members of the VCUarts Qatar community are working across disciplines to preserve the state’s rich culture. The work they have done to reclaim and tell the story of Qatar is essential to the future of the nation.

It has been an honor to be part of the success of VCUarts Qatar.

The work we have done together for 20 years will benefit future generations and serve the state of Qatar and the world for many years to come.

Shawn Brixey

VCUarts celebrated 20 years of deep collaboration between Richmond and Doha, a relationship that underscores both institutions’ commitment to inquiry, discovery and innovation in a global setting. Together, VCU and Qatar Foundation have created a culture of ambition, adaptability, relevance and ingenuity that is bi-directional, elevates our shared visions and makes us collectively stronger.

Dean, VCU School of the Arts Special Assistant to the Provost for VCUarts Qatar

‫احتفلت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية الفنون بمرور عشرين عام ًا من التعاون‬ ‫ وهي عالقة تؤكد التزام كال المؤسستين بالبحث‬،‫المثمر بين ريتشموند والدوحة‬ ‫ لقد قامت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث‬.‫واالكتشاف واالبتكار في إطار عالمي‬ ‫مع مؤسسة قطر بابتكار ثقافات متبادلة في الطموح والقدرة على التكيف‬ .‫ ما عمل على رفع رؤانا المشتركة وجعلنا سوية أقوى‬،‫والمالءمة والبراعة‬ ‫ وبقيادة سمو‬،‫لقد كانت مؤسسة قطر للتربية والعلوم وتنمية المجتمع‬ ‫ شريك ًا تربوي ًا تحويلي ًا في تحقيق رؤيتنا لالبتكار والتميز‬،‫الشيخة موزا بنت ناصر‬ ‫ بدعوة كلية الفنون‬،‫ قامت مؤسسة قطر‬،‫ ومنذ عقدين من الزمن‬.‫الدوليين‬ .‫في جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث إلنشاء أول فرع دولي في المدينة التعليمية‬ ‫ تقدم جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر برنامج‬،‫اليوم‬ ‫ برنامج ًا مطابق ًا لمعايير الجودة‬،‫التصميم الرائد في منطقة الشرق األوسط‬ ‫ جامعة‬.‫والتميز التي قمنا برعايتهما ألكثر من تسعين عام ًا في ريتشموند‬ ‫ مليء بالمربين‬،‫فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر مكان رائع‬ ‫ والطلبة والخريجين الذين يؤمنون بقوة الفن في‬،‫والموظفين الشغوفين‬ ‫ وتمام ًا وكما هو الحال في‬.‫اكتشاف وتمكين وإطالق اإلمكانات البشرية‬ ‫ فنحن في قطر نؤمن بأن الفن هو النسيج الداعم الذي يصل‬،‫ريتشموند‬ ‫بين مجموعة كاملة من التخصصات نهدف من خاللها إلى حل التحديات‬ .‫الحالية واألكثر إلحاح ًا‬ ‫ يحتل الفن مكان ًا استراتيجي ًا في كل من ريتشموند‬،‫وكنتيجة لجهودنا المشتركة‬ ‫ اتطلع إلى استمرار العمل‬،‫ وأنا بدوري‬.‫ منطلق ًا في أفق ال حدود لها‬،‫وقطر‬ ‫على خلق تراث مبني على سمعة عالمية وتاريخ في االبتكار جعل من كلية‬ ‫الفنون في جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث واحدة من مراكز الفن والتصميم‬ .‫الرائدة في العالم‬ ‫شون بريكسي‬ ‫ جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث‬،‫عميد كلية الفنون‬ ‫مساعد خاص لرئيس جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬

Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, led by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, has been a transformative partner in realizing our vision of international innovation and excellence. It is because of Qatar Foundation that VCUarts was invited to establish the first international branch campus at Education City two decades ago.

Today, VCUarts Qatar is the premier design program in the Middle East, matching the quality and distinction that we have nurtured for 90 years in Richmond. VCUarts Qatar is a remarkable place, filled with passionate faculty, staff, students and alumni who believe in the transformative power of the arts for discovery, empowerment and unlocking human potential. In Qatar, just as in Richmond, the arts is the connective tissue that supports and binds together the full spectrum of disciplines as we aim to solve today’s most pressing challenges.

As a result of our shared endeavor, the arts in Richmond and in Qatar are standing in a place of strength, looking out on a horizon of limitless possibility. I look forward to the continued creation of our legacy that builds upon the global reputation and history of innovation, making VCUarts one of the world’s leading centers for art and design excellence.

Donald Baker, Ph.D.

2018 marks the 20th anniversary of VCU’s partnership with Qatar Foundation. It has been a fruitful partnership based on the enlightened policies of Qatar’s leaders and their steadfast support over the years. In this celebratory moment, the University salutes its previous deans and former colleagues for their contributions to VCUarts Qatar and for laying the foundation for continued success. This is also an opportunity for the University to look ahead to the future, examine the current state of art and design, and honor the legacy of VCUarts Qatar.

Executive Dean, VCUarts Qatar

‫ الذكرى العشرين لشراكة جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث مع‬2018 ‫يصادف عام‬ ‫ استندت هذه الشراكة المثمرة على السياسات المستنيرة‬.‫مؤسسة قطر‬ ،‫ في هذه اللحظة االحتفالية‬.‫لقادة دولة قطر ودعمهم الثابت على مر السنين‬ ‫نحيي العمداء والزمالء السابقين ونشكرهم على كل ما قدموه وساهموا به في‬ ‫ كما نشكرهم على إرساء‬،‫جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬ ‫ وننتهز هذه الفرصة أيضا لنتطلع إلى‬.‫أسس راسخة أدت إلى نجاحنا المستمر‬ ‫ ونقوم بتكريم إرث وتراث‬،‫ ونقيِم الوضع الحالي للفن والتصميم‬،‫المستقبل‬ .‫هذه الجامعة العريقة‬ ‫ كان لدى الجامعة‬1998 ‫ في عام‬.‫ أنجزنا الكثير‬،‫على مدى العقدين الماضيين‬ ‫ خريج ًا‬58 ‫ وقمنا بتخريج‬،‫ طالب ًا وطالبة‬340 ‫ لدينا‬،٢٠١٨ ‫ في عام‬.‫ طالبة‬35 ‫ خريج ًا‬٦٥٠ ‫ مما يرفع العدد اإلجمالي للخريجين إلى ما يقرب من‬،‫وخريجة‬ ‫ عملنا على رفع جودة مناهجنا الدراسية وقمنا بتوسيع نطاق التزامنا‬.‫وخريجة‬ ‫ نحن نقوم وباستمرار بتحديث مناهجنا‬.‫ليشمل التعليم العملي والتجريبي‬ ‫لتعكس تطور التخصصات التي نقدمها ونوفر المعرفة والمهارات المالئمة‬ .‫ ودمج أحدث التقنيات‬،‫ كما نعمل على إضافة التجارب الواقعية‬،‫للسياق‬ ‫ قمنا‬.‫ محلي ًا وإقليمي ًا ودولي ًا‬،‫تشمل مشاركاتنا وأنشطتنا العديد من المجاالت‬ ‫بتطوير العديد من العالقات الوثيقة مع أرباب العمل لدعم فرص الطالب والخريجين‬ ‫ ساهم طالبنا وخريجونا وأعضاء الهيئة التدريسية في العديد من‬.‫وإنجازاتهم‬ ‫المشاريع محليا وإقليميا عاملين على تطوير أعمال وبرامج متعددة التخصصات في‬ ‫ نجحنا في تعزيز سمعتنا اإلقليمية والدولية كقادة في تعليم الفن‬.‫الفن والتصميم‬ ‫ ساعدنا في تطوير اتحاد أساتذة التصميم في الشرق‬.‫والتصميم في الشرق األوسط‬ ‫ كما شاركنا في استمرارية المنتدىات الدولية في الفنون اإلسالمية وتنظيم‬.‫األوسط‬ ،‫ قمنا بتوسيع نطاق أنشطتنا البحثية‬.»‫مؤتمر التصميم الدولي «تصميم دوحة‬ ‫ يقدم برنامجنا‬.‫بفضل المنح التي يوفرها الصندوق القطري لرعاية البحث العلمي‬ ‫التعليمي للمجتمع مجموعة واسعة من الدورات التدريبية في التطوير المهني‬ .‫وغيرها من المجاالت التي تهم الطالب بشكل عام بدء ًا من عمر خمس سنوات‬ .‫كما تطرح هذه الدورات باللغة العربية ولجميع األجيال‬ ‫كانت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر مصدر ًا ثابت ًا لالبتكار‬ ،‫ وبينما ننهي عامنا العشرين‬.‫وإيجاد طرق بديلة للنظر إلى العالم وأنفسنا‬ ‫نفخر بعرض إنجازاتنا وإنجازات أعضاء الهيئة التدريسية والموظفين والطالب‬ ‫ نسعى إلى مزيد من‬،‫ وفي الوقت الذي نتطلع فيه إلى األمام‬.‫والخريجين‬ ‫التكامل مع العالم الرقمي سريع التطور من خالل تعزيز الواقع العملي والذكاء‬ .‫ ودمجها في البرامج الحالية والعمل على ابتكار وخلق برامج جديدة‬،‫االصطناعي‬ ‫نعمل وبحماس على استغالل الفرص المتاحة وغرس بيئة ثقافية وتعليمية‬ ‫ديناميكية ومجتمع من الباحثين يعملون على توفير السياق الالزم للتطوير‬ ‫ لبناء مجتمعات نابضة‬،‫الشامل للفنانين المثاليين والمصممين والعلماء‬ ‫ نتطلع إلى مستقبل‬،‫ وبكل تفاؤل وامتنان وترقب‬.‫بالحياة واقتصادات متنوعة‬ .‫مشرق لجامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬ ‫ دونالد بيكر‬.‫د‬ ‫ جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬،‫العميد التنفيذي‬

Over the past two decades, the University has grown a great deal. In 1998, the University had 35 students. In 2018, it had 340 students and graduated 58, raising the total number of alumni to nearly 650. VCUarts Qatar has elevated the quality of its curriculum and expanded its commitment to hands-on, experiential learning. The University is constantly updating its curriculum to reflect the evolution of the disciplines it offers and provide contextually relevant knowledge and skills, real-life experiences, and integration of the latest technology.

The University is active on many fronts—locally, regionally and internationally. We have developed close relations with employers and fostered student and alumni opportunities and achievements. Our students, faculty and alumni have contributed to many projects in the country and beyond, developing multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary art and design protocols.

VCUarts Qatar has furthered its regional and international reputation as leaders in art and design education in the Middle East, helping to develop the Middle East Design Educators Association. The University participates in the Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art and organizes the Tasmeem Doha international art and design conference. It has expanded its research activities thanks to grants made available by Qatar National Research Fund. Our community education program offers a wide range of courses in professional development and others of general interest to students as young as five, and to Arabic-speakers of all generations.

VCUarts Qatar has been a steady source of innovation and alternative ways of looking at the world and at ourselves.

As it ends its 20th year, the University is proud to showcase here the achievements of its faculty, staff, students and alumni.

As it looks ahead, the University envisages greater integration into the rapidly developing digital world through enhanced and virtual reality and artificial intelligence, incorporating them into existing programs and inspiring new programs.

The University continues to be excited about opportunities to cultivate a dynamic intercultural environment of research, learning and community engagement that provides the context for the holistic development of exemplary artists, designers and scholars and builds vibrant communities and diversified economies.

The University looks forward to a bright future for VCUarts Qatar with optimism, gratitude and anticipation.

The Joint Advisory Board The Joint Advisory Board (JAB) provides advice on the management and operation of VCUarts Qatar to the Dean of VCUarts Qatar, the Board of Directors of Qatar Foundation, and the Board of Visitors of VCU, as applicable. The JAB is primarily responsible for the ongoing review and evaluation of the success of VCUarts Qatar.

The JAB is composed of three members appointed by VCU, three members appointed

by Qatar Foundation, and three additional independent members jointly appointed

by VCU and Qatar Foundation.

Members of the JAB 2018–2019 CO-CHAIR

// Gail Hackett, Ph.D. Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, VCU (2014–present) // Ahmad Hasnah, Ph.D. President, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (2008–present) MEMBER

// Shawn Brixey Dean, VCUarts (2017–present)

JAB Member Terms // Paul Timmreck (2003–2006)

// Venka Purushothaman Vice President (Academic) and Provost, LaSalle College of the Arts (2014–present)

// Saif Ali Al Hajari, Ph.D. (2003–2007)

EX-OFFICIO

// Mounir Hamdi, Ph.D. Dean, College of Science and Engineering, HBKU (2016–present) // Donald Baker, Ph.D. Executive Dean, VCUarts Qatar (2017–present) Members of the first JAB CO-CHAIR

// Saif Ali Al Hajari, Ph.D. Vice Chairman, Qatar Foundation // Eugene Trani, Ph.D. President, VCU

// Yousef Ahmed Al Homaid (2003–2007) // Eugene Trani, Ph.D. (2003–2008) // Richard Toscan, Ph.D. (2003–2010) // Mohammed Zakariya (2003–2011) // Sheikh Hamad Bin Nasser Al Thani, Ph.D. (2003–2012) // Samuel Hoi (2003–2017) // Jeffrey Nesin (2003–2017)

// Amal Al Malki, Ph.D. Dean, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, HBKU (2015–present)

MEMBER

// Guna Nadarajan Dean, Penny W. Stamps School of Art and Design, University of Michigan (2018–present)

// Jeffrey Nesin President, Memphis College of Art

// Abdulla Al Najjar (2008–2009)

// Mohammed Zakariya Zakariya Calligraphy

// Roger Mandle, Ph.D. (2009–2012)

// Paul Timmreck Senior Vice President for Finance & Administration, VCU

// David Ross (2009–2014)

// Jelena Trkulja, Ph.D. Director of Education, Qatar Museums (2012–present) // Karol Gray Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, VCU (2017–present) // Mark Robbins President and CEO, American Academy in Rome (2018–present)

// Sheikh Hamad Bin Nasser Al Thani, Ph.D. General Manager, Qatar Industrial Development Bank

// Richard Toscan, Ph.D. Dean, VCUarts // Samuel Hoi President, Otis College of Art // Yousef Ahmed Al Homaid Qatari Artist

// John Bennett (2006–2010)

// Beverly Warren, Ph.D. (2010–2014) // Jay Coogan (2011–2014) // Joseph Seipel (2011–2015)

// David Prior, Ph.D. (2012–2014) // Brian Shaw (2014–2017) // James Frazier, Ed.D. (2015–2017) EX-OFFICIO

// H.E. Sheikh Abdulla Bin Ali Al-Thani, Ph.D. (2010–2014) // Allyson Vanstone (2007–2015) // Akel Kahera (2015–2018)

The Deans // THE FIRST DECADE Paul Petrie 1998–2001 As founding director of the Shaqab College of Design Arts, Paul Petrie was actively involved with the opening of the school, spending innumerable hours preparing all of the details for the opening of classes in September 1998, working closely with VCUarts and Qatar Foundation. He welcomed the first faculty in August 1998 and the first freshman class of 29 Art Foundation students shortly after. He continues to fondly remember these students as the University’s first class of “pioneers.” Petrie was also associate dean of the University from 2001 to 2003.

Allan Hing 2001–2002 Shaqab College of Design Arts was already being recognized for its impact on Qatar; and when Allan Hing was the acting dean, faculty and students were given many opportunities to contribute to the design environment in the country through graphics in print media, fashion shows in the community and interior design within the new Shaqab (now VCUarts Qatar) building. One related project he particularly remembers is VCUarts Qatar’s VIP room where the design idea was to blend the old with the new. Horizontal bands of gypsum carvings and the local color of fabrics and carpets symbolized the old, while modern materials like glass and steel, and contemporary furniture represented the new, showing they can coexist while respecting the history and culture of the land.

Christina Lindholm, Ph.D. 2002–2007 As dean, Christina Lindholm managed the transition from the Shaqab College of Design Arts to a fully operational branch campus that followed the rules, regulations, procedures and policies of the state of Virginia. As Education City expanded to include other universities, VCUarts Qatar was able to offer advice and suggestions in terms of fitting American academia into the Qatar landscape. She recalls the spirit of cooperation and goodwill among the universities despite the differences in focus; and the parade of dignitaries through Education City, including heads of state, former U.S. presidents, various royalty and distinguished scholars.

// THE SECOND DECADE Allyson Vanstone 2007–2015 Allyson Vanstone joined VCUarts Qatar as dean during the University’s 10th anniversary. Over the course of her tenure, VCUarts Qatar extended its degree programs to include visual arts and art history, introduced the M.F.A. in Design degree to the Gulf region and broadened community programs to welcome youth and Arabic-language learners. The University also doubled its facilities and resources to support the expanded programs and its future needs.

Great strides were also made with public programming— from the Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art to Tasmeem Doha—along with regional initiatives in scholarship and faculty and student research, furthering the University’s international and regional reputation as a leader in art and design education in the Middle East. The University also established its presence on the home campus with the Qatar House.

Under Dean Vanstone’s leadership, the University strengthened its partnerships with Qatar Foundation, its sister branch campuses, HBKU and Qatar Museums. The Qatari Junior Faculty program was also initiated with HBKU’s support. Among her signature accomplishments was creating VCUarts Qatar’s strategic plan to realign the University with Qatar National Vision 2030, the development of HBKU and the Qatar Foundation 2013–2023 Strategic Plan.

Akel Kahera, Ph.D. 2015–2018 With a career spanning nearly 25 years in public university teaching and administration, and as an international consultant and architectural designer, Dean Akel Kahera, Ph.D.، joined VCUarts Qatar after serving as associate dean of Research and Graduate Studies in the College of Architecture, Arts and Humanities at Clemson University. With his rich array of knowledge, experience and advocacy he continued to support the mission, vision and strategic plan of VCUarts Qatar to build a community of scholars and lay the groundwork for innovation.

‫حاضنـــة االبتكــار‬ An Incubator of Innovation

1

// Installation from “Floating Architecture” workshop run by Alberto Iacovoni, “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015.

The first university at Qatar Foundation’s Education City, VCUarts Qatar enjoys an international reputation for excellence in art and design. It values collaboration, experimentation, innovation, relevancy and diversity, and focuses on giving the community the chance to play a part in shaping a changing world.

VCUarts Qatar believes in the transformational power of education and in developing the capabilities and expertise of its students. VCUarts Qatar provides life-altering experiences, and prepares students for the careers to which they aspire by equipping them to understand emerging issues in art and design and to foresee future challenges. ‫ الجامعة‬،‫جامعــة فرجينيــا كومنولــث كلية فنــون التصميم في قطــر‬ ‫ نتمتــع بســمعة عالمية‬،‫األولــى فــي المدينــة التعليميــة فــي قطــر‬ ،‫ واالبتــكار‬،‫ والتجربــة‬،‫ نقــدر التعــاون‬.‫للتميــز فــي الفــن والتصميــم‬ ‫ والتركيــز علــى منــح مجتمعنــا الفرصــة للعــب‬،‫ والتنــوع‬،‫والمالءمــة‬ .‫دور فــي تشــكيل عالــم متغيــر‬

‫نؤمــن بالقــدرات التحويليــة للتعليــم ونعمــل علــى جمــع وتطويــر‬ ‫ ودفــع األفــكار والتجــارب نحــو الممارســات‬،‫قــدرات وخبــرات طالبنــا‬ ‫ نعمــل علــى إعــداد طالبنــا للمهــن التــي يتطلعــون إليها‬.‫الواقعيــة‬ ‫مــن خــال فهــم القضايــا الناشــئة فــي الفــن والتصميــم والتنبــؤ‬ .‫بالتحديــات المســتقبلية وإيجــاد الحلــول لهــا‬

Over the years, VCUarts Qatar has faithfully pursued that goal, developing programs and activities that draw from the local culture and meet the needs of young Qataris while working towards creating a well-designed, culturally distinct and sustainable vision of Qatar. During the 10th anniversary of its operations, Her Highness Sheikha Moza went on to say that now “we have irrefutable proof that VCUarts Qatar is not only helping students develop their own individual talents and potential—you are also teaching them how to leave their mark on the world around them.”

Now in its 20th year, VCUarts Qatar is guided by Qatar National Vision 2030. His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani wrote of a desire to “build a bridge between the past and the future.”

He went on to say that through “intensive consultation across Qatari society,” Qatar National Vision 2030 “reflects the aspirations of the Qatari people and the resolve of their political leadership.”

// 20th-anniversary banner, VCUarts Qatar, December 2017.

This collective Vision is articulated as “a vibrant and prosperous country in which there is economic and social justice for all, and in which nature and man are in harmony.” At the heart of this Vision of the future is the people of Qatar. Qatar is investing in its people, “so that all can participate fully in economic, social and political life.” His Highness Sheikh Tamim urges the residents of Qatar to join together to create a better community and a better nation with “strong Islamic and family values as the moral and ethical compass.”

VCUarts Qatar shares His Highness Sheikh Tamim’s vision, and responds to his call when he says, “Qatar’s National Vision belongs to the government, the private sector, civil society and to all Qatari citizens. I call on all to work hard and utilize your expertise to help achieve the goals of the Vision and to advance our nation’s development. In this way, we will build a bright future for the people of Qatar.”

”

—His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani

During a speech at VCUarts Qatar’s first Commencement Ceremony in 2002, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser said, “Together Qatar Foundation and VCUarts Qatar are designing a future that is firmly rooted in our past.”

“

Addressing Qatar’s Heritage and Vision

Qatar must continue to invest in its people so that all can participate fully in economic, social and political life.

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‫تعزيز رؤية وتراث دولة قطر‬ ‫صرحت صاحبة السمو الشيخة موزا بنت ناصر وخالل كلمتها في حفل التخرج‬ ‫األول لجامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر عام ‪ 2002‬قائلة‪:‬‬ ‫«ستقوم مؤسسة قطر وجامعة فرجينيا كومنولث مع ًا بتصميم مستقبل‬ ‫راسخ وبقوة في ماضينا»‪.‬‬ ‫سعينا وعلى مر السنين‪ ،‬لتحقيق هذا الهدف‪ ،‬وتطوير برامج وأنشطة مستمدة‬ ‫من ثقافتنا المحلية وتفي باحتياجات الشباب القطري‪ ،‬بينما نعمل على خلق‬ ‫رؤية مصممة جيداً‪ ،‬ومتميزة ثقافي ًا ومستدامة لدولة قطر‪ .‬خالل الذكرى‬ ‫السنوية العاشرة‪ ،‬أشادت سموها بإنجازاتنا قائلة «لدينا اآلن دليل دامغ على‬ ‫أن جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر ال تقوم بمساعدة‬ ‫الطلبة على تطوير مواهبهم وإمكاناتهم الفردية فقط‪ ،‬بل تعلمهم كيف يتركون‬ ‫بصماتهم على العالم من حولهم»‪.‬‬ ‫واآلن ونحن في عامنا العشرين‪ ،‬نسترشد برؤية قطر الوطنية ‪ .2030‬كتب‬ ‫صاحب السمو الشيخ تميم بن حمد آل ثاني عن رغبته في «بناء جس ٍر يصل‬ ‫الحاضر بالمستقبل»‪ .‬وأضاف أن هذا سيتحقق من خالل «المشاورات المكثفة‬ ‫مع جميع فئات المجتمع القطري»‪ .‬تعكس رؤية قطر الوطنية ‪2030‬‬ ‫«تطلعات الشعب القطري وتوجيهات قيادته»‪.‬‬ ‫توضح هذه الرؤية الجماعية أن دولة قطر «بلد حيوي ومزدهر تسوده العدالة‬ ‫االقتصادية واالجتماعية‪ ،‬ويحفظ التوازن بين البيئة واإلنسان»‪ .‬فقلب هذه‬ ‫الرؤية المستقبلية‪ ،‬شعب قطر‪ .‬فدولة قطر‪ ،‬وبفضل الثروة والموارد المتاحة‬ ‫تستثمر في شعبها «حتى يتمكن الجميع من المشاركة بشكل كامل في الحياة‬ ‫االقتصادية واالجتماعية والسياسية»‪ .‬يحث صاحب السمو الشيخ تميم سكان‬ ‫قطر على االنضمام مع ًا لخلق مجتمع أفضل وأمة أفضل مع «القيم اإلسالمية‬ ‫والعائلية القوية باعتبارها البوصلة األخالقية والمعنوية»‪.‬‬ ‫نحن في جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر نشارك صاحب‬ ‫السمو الشيخ تميم رؤيته‪ ،‬ونؤازر دعوته إلى «جميع المسؤولين والقطاع‬ ‫الخاص والمجتمع المدني والمواطنين كافة إلى توظيف خبراتهم وبذل قصارى‬ ‫جهدهم من أجل تحقيق أهداف رؤية قطر الوطنية ‪ 2030‬ودفع المسيرة‬ ‫التنموية نحو األمام وصو ًال إلى تحقيق مستقبل مشرق لدولة قطر»‪.‬‬

In 1997, Qatar Foundation invited VCU to set up a design college catering specifically to women. Richard Toscan, then dean of the School of the Arts, travelled to Doha and agreed to establish the Shaqab College of Design Arts the following year.

The founding director of the new school was Paul Petrie, an interior designer and associate dean at VCU. Funded by Qatar Foundation, the new school became a full branch campus of VCU before the graduation of the first class in 2002.

As an institution, VCUarts Qatar has faithfully pursued the goal laid out by Her Highness Sheikha Moza at that first graduating class commencement, to “design a future firmly rooted in our past.” The University has developed programs and activities that draw from the local culture and meet the needs of young Qataris and residents who are working towards creating a well-designed, culturally distinct and sustainable vision of Qatar. At the 10-year anniversary, Her Highness Sheikha Moza commended VCUarts Qatar for teaching its students how to “make their mark” on the world.

// VCUarts Qatar building, circa 1998–1999.

Professor of Cultural Economics Pier Luigi Sacco developed a framework for understanding how culture affects a country.

According to Sacco, cultural activities have economic, health and welfare, and political benefits. The economy is affected by the ability of cultural activities to drive innovation, lead to new entrepreneurship models, and improve environmental and economic sustainability by improving accountability for individual actions. The health and welfare of people are affected by the contribution of cultural activities to mental and physical wellbeing, especially among vulnerable populations. Cultural activities also positively affect citizen engagement, social cohesion and sense of belonging, and promote lifelong learning, which correlates with citizen productivity. Finally, the political effects of cultural activities and exports include improving the influence of a nation in the world, and building local identities through community improvement activities. There is evidence to suggest that VCUarts Qatar is having exactly these effects on Qatar.

” —Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser

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In 1998, Wijdan Shami Basit of Qatar Foundation asserted that “Our mission has been to develop new university programs that provide the latest research, training and tools to the young people of Qatar, while also introducing them to new cultures.”

The Foundation was especially interested in introducing fields of education that were underrepresented in the region, such as fashion, interior design and communication arts. “To create the best new universities for Qatar, we need to draw on the expertise of those who define excellence in their discipline,” Basit added. “In the case of design arts, the selection was unquestionably VCU’s School of the Arts.”

Measuring impacts Just how an art and design school can leave a mark on Qatar and the world can be understood through looking at some of the ways cultural activities have a spillover effect on communities.

“

Forming the partnership Ever since the onset of the revolution in Qatar’s higher education under His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani during the 1990s, VCU has been an important participant in the unfolding story of Qatar’s investment in its people. It started with the ambitious vision of His Highness Sheikh Hamad and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser to boldly expand the country’s higher education offerings through the establishment of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development in 1995.

VCUarts Qatar is not only helping students develop their own individual talents and potential but also teaching them how to leave their mark on the world.

The Impact of 20 Years of Partnership between Virginia Commonwealth University and Qatar Foundation

‫ً‬ ‫عاما من الشراكة بين‬ ‫عشرون‬ ‫جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث ومؤسسة قطر‬

‫تشكيل الشراكة‬ ‫في تاريخها الممتد عشرين عام ًا‪ ،‬تابعت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون‬ ‫التصميم في قطر وبإخالص الهدف الذي وضعته صاحبة السمو الشيخة موزا‬ ‫بنت ناصر في حفل التخرج األول للجامعة‪« :‬تصميم مستقبل تمتد جذوره‬ ‫وبعمق من ماضينا»‪ .‬قامت الجامعة بوضع برامج وأنشطة مستوحاة من‬ ‫الثقافة المحلية وتلبي احتياجات الشباب القطري والمقيم والتي تعمل‬ ‫على خلق وابتكار رؤية مصممة بإتقان‪ ،‬متميزة ثقافي ًا ومستدامة لدولة قطر‪.‬‬ ‫في الذكرى العاشرة‪ ،‬أشادت صاحبة السمو بجهود الجامعة في تعليم الطلبة‬ ‫«كيف يتركون بصماتهم» على العالم‪.‬‬ ‫قياس التأثيرات‬ ‫يمكننا ومن خالل النظر إلى بعض الطرق التي تؤثر فيها األنشطة الثقافية‬ ‫وبطريق غير مباشر على المجتمعات من خالل االقتصاد والصحة والرفاهية‬ ‫وإشراك المواطنين والمواقع السياسية في العالم‪ ،‬فهم كيف يمكن أن تترك‬ ‫كلية الفنون والتصميم—التي تدرب المنتجين والمبدعين—بصمة على دولة‬ ‫قطر وعلى العالم‪ .‬تشير األدلة على مدى تأثير جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية‬ ‫فنون التصميم في قطر على المجتمع وبالتالي تأثيرها على دولة قطر‪.‬‬

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LEFT // Wajha Competition, the winning logo designs, Honey Queen cafeteria.

Source: Denielle Emans and Basma Hamdy OPPOSITE TOP TO BOTTOM // Wajha Competition, students’ work, spring 2017. Source: Denielle Emans and Basma Hamdy // Wajha Competition, student rebranding, Al Nasser Barbershop. Source: Denielle Emans and Basma Hamdy

Honey Queen Queen Honey

Aisha Khaled Khaled Al-Saad, Al-Saad, Alisha Alisha Rehamuddin Rehamuddin Saiyed, Saiyed, Aisha Rabeya Khatoon, Khatoon, and and Muneera Muneera Ahmad Ahmad Al-Obaidan Al-Obaidan Rabeya

‫–سعادة الشيخة هند بنت حمد آل ثاني‬

‫«لقد نجحت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث في قطر في التأسيس‬ ‫ وهو نظام يشجع على‬،‫ هنا في قلب الدوحة‬،‫لنظام أصيل‬ .»‫ ويكافئ اإلبداع في الفن والتصميم‬،‫التطور‬

Innovation, entrepreneurship and country sustainability The impact of VCU’s partnership with Qatar Foundation was seen immediately. The successful establishment of the first branch campus encouraged many other American universities to forge similar partnerships. As a result, there was a vast increase in access to high-quality education, particularly for women. VCUarts Qatar again led the way in securing international recognition for its degrees, establishing the reputation of Qatar for academic excellence in the region. In 2000, the branch campus was accredited by the Qatar Ministry of Education and Higher Education; in 2003, VCU and its branch campus received Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation; in 2004, the University secured National Association of Schools of Art and Design accreditation and in 2005, Foundation for Interior Design Accreditation (now CIDA). These accreditations made VCUarts Qatar the only internationally accredited design school in the region, and its profile was raised even further when VCU became the number one ranked public art school in the United States in 2003, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Twenty years into the partnership with Qatar Foundation, the University’s “mark” has been drawn to the far reaches of Qatar, connecting VCUarts Qatar alumni, faculty and students to a wealth of businesses, government entities and community members, creating a web of impact that will continue to support Qatar’s aspirations into the future. In her 2017 commencement speech, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, vice chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, praised this network, saying, “VCUarts Qatar has established a homegrown ecosystem right here in Doha—an ecosystem that promotes, develops and rewards innovation in art and design.”

This ecosystem means that VCUarts Qatar’s core mission of teaching and research is heavily embedded in Doha, with many productive local partnerships. Students have access to real-world scenarios in their classes, and are designing real products that are produced before they even graduate. Starting in 2002, when students designed the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel’s 20th-anniversary logo, VCUarts Qatar has been a resource to businesses and institutions in Qatar. With Qatar Foundation, students have designed uniforms, sports event medals and trophies and conference stage designs. Classroom projects have included design competitions where students rebranded local businesses, designed spaces to encourage young entrepreneurs and developed brand identities for big and small organizations in Qatar. Countless partnerships over the years have helped students gain real experience, while raising the profile of students among local employers and helping them understand the power of art and design.

‫ ريادة األعمال واالستدامة‬،‫االبتكار‬ ‫ تمكنا من ترك‬،‫ عام ًا من الشراكة مع مؤسسة قطر‬20 ‫ وبعد مرور‬،‫اآلن‬ ‫ تمكنا من مد أواصر التواصل والتعاون‬،‫«بصمتنا» في جميع أنحاء دولة قطر‬ ‫بين خريجينا وأعضاء الهيئة التدريسية والطالب وبين مجتمع األعمال‬ ‫ ما أدى إلى خلق شبكة من التأثير‬،‫والكيانات الحكومية وأعضاء المجتمع‬ ‫ وقد أشادت سعادة الشيخة‬.‫تواصل دعم طموحات دولة قطر في المستقبل‬ ‫هند بنت حمد آل ثاني نائب رئيس مجلس اإلدارة والرئيس التنفيذي مؤسسة‬ ‫ «لقد نجحت‬:‫ قائلة‬،2017 ‫ في خطابها في حفل التخرج‬،‫ بهذه الشبكة‬،‫قطر‬ ‫ هنا في قلب‬،‫جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث في قطر في التأسيس لنظام أصيل‬ .»‫ ويكافئ اإلبداع في الفن والتصميم‬،‫ وهو نظام يشجع على التطور‬،‫الدوحة‬ ‫وقد أثبت عدد من الخريجين بأن لديهم ما يلزم للمساهمة بشكل‬ .‫كبير في اقتصاد دولة قطر من خالل تأسيس شركاتهم وأعمالهم الخاصة‬ ‫ يدير اآلن عالمة تجارية ناجحة في‬،2011 ‫ تصميم األزياء‬،‫أحمد السيد‬ ‫ تصميم األزياء‬،‫ سيلينا فاروقي‬.‫) في دبي‬House of Nomad( ‫مجال األزياء‬ ‫ عرضت مجموعاتها في األزياء في متجر «هارفي نيكولز» في لندن عام‬،2011 »‫) و«أسرار سارة» و«تريبل ترند‬Impressions( ‫ بوتيك‬:‫ وغيرهم أمثال‬.2018 ‫و«البوتيك بلونج» وهؤالء مجرد عدد قليل من الشركات التي أسسها ويديرها‬ .‫خريجو جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬ ‫الشراكات البحثية هي موضوع آخر في امتداد تأثير جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث‬ ،‫ تقيم الجامعة شراكات بحثية مهمة مع الشركات والهيئات المحلية‬.‫في قطر‬ .‫بما في ذلك واحة قطر للعلوم والتكنولوجيا وميرسك قطر للبترول‬

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”

“

Other activities also contribute to the development of Qatar as a hub of design excellence. The VCUarts Qatar annual fashion show hosts over 800 attendees, draws large sponsors such as Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles Mercedes-Benz, Salam Stores and the W Doha, is faithfully attended by members of the royal family, local dignitaries, ambassadors and bloggers and is covered by large media outlets. It features student work along with that of established designers and raises the profile of the fashion industry in Qatar. On the occasion of the 20th-anniversary fashion show, Gianrico Esposito, general manager of The Westin Doha Hotel and Spa, said, “We are proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of a university that has developed and changed the perception of art and design in Qatar. Tonight, we are happy to witness great talents and are confident that the new generation of designers will bolster fashion tourism in Qatar.”

A number of alumni have now proven that they have what it takes to substantially contribute to the economy of Qatar by establishing their own thriving businesses. Dana Riad (B.F.A. ’11), Nayla Al-Mulla (B.F.A. ’08), Latifa Al Mudahki (B.F.A. ’08) and Selina Farooqi (B.F.A. ’11) run their own fashion labels. Fashion Design graduate Ahmad El Sayed (B.F.A. ’11) also runs a successful fashion brand, House of Nomad, out of Dubai. Selina’s fashion line was featured at the London department store Harvey Nichols in 2018. Impressions boutique at The Mall of Qatar, Sara’s Secrets Boutique in Al Sadd, Triple Trend Design House and La Boutique Blanche on Salwa Road and Tasmeem Flowers and Chocolates, with retail locations all over Qatar, are just a few of the the businesses founded and run by VCUarts Qatar alumni.

—Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah

Over the years VCUarts Qatar graduates have proved to be at the forefront of the design industry in Qatar.

Embedding student activities in the local culture has meant a greater local impact. Longtime VCUarts Qatar supporter Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah, a local pioneer architect and group CEO and chief architect, Arab Engineering Bureau, observed at the 20th-anniversary gala that “Over the years VCUarts Qatar graduates have proved to be at the forefront of the design industry in Qatar.”

Research partnerships are another thread in the University’s web of impact. VCUarts Qatar has had important research partnerships with local businesses and entities, including Maersk Oil, which funded a graduate student entrepreneurship incubator, and the Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), which helped to realize a portable migrant housing prototype in 2012. QSTP also recently provided funding to bring a faculty member’s nanoscience invention to market. Partnerships with Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, integrating art and medicine, and Tate Modern in London among others, further the University’s reach and impact.

OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // “Art and Medicine” exhibition, HBKU Student Center, spring 2016. // Graphic design student work, spring 2016. // “Appliqué,”18th annual fashion show، The Gate Mall, 2017.

ABOVE // Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah, VCUarts Qatar’s 20th-anniversary gala, May 7, 2018.

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VCUarts Qatar alumni are showing that they have what it takes to be successful contemporary artists, which means they contribute to the country’s cultural exports. Othman Khunji (M.F.A. ’15) had his work purchased by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani for Qatar Museums, by La Triennale di Milano Museum in Italy and by Her Excellency Sheikha Intisar Al-Sabah of Kuwait, and his works were on display at the prestigious Grand Palais Museum in Paris in September 2018. Hana Al-Saadi (B.F.A. ’15) won the Damien Hirst Prize and had her work shown in galleries in New York, London and Qatar. Her work is in the permanent collection of Qatar Museums. Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13) had her work on display all over the region, and was mentioned by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa as an emerging contemporary artist in Qatar at the 2017 Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art, as well as being featured in Dezeen magazine that same year. Bothina A. Al-Muftah (B.F.A. ′09) had a solo show at Mathaf Museum in 2018. Habeeb Buftaim (B.F.A. ′16) had work included in the permanent collections of the Barjeel Art Foundation while still a student. The visibility of the University’s alumni prompted His Excellency Sheikh Abdulla Bin Ali Al-Thani, advisor to the Amiri Diwan, to remark, “VCUarts Qatar has played a formative role in the education of a new generation of vital actors in the world of the arts, in Qatar and the region beyond.”

OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ’13), Artist in Residence, Doha Fire Station, fall 2015. // M.F.A. students’ work (Kalimat project), “Contemporary Art Qatar” exhibition, Kraftwerk Berlin, Germany.

Photograph: Simone Muscolino // Fatma Al Remaihi (B.F.A. ’10), Artist in Residence, Doha Fire Station, fall 2015. // Bothina A. Al Muftah work (B.F.A. ’09), “20/20/20” exhibition, VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, fall 2017.

‫يثبت خريجو الجامعة يوم ًا بعد يوم أنهم يمتلكون اإلمكانيات الالزمة‬ ‫ ما يعني أنهم يساهمون في الصادرات‬،‫للنجاح كفنانين معاصرين‬ ‫ قامت سعادة الشيخة المياسة‬،‫ على سبيل المثال‬.‫الثقافية للبالد‬ ‫بنت حمد آل ثاني ومن خالل متاحف قطر بجمع بعض األعمال الفنية‬ ‫) والمشاركة فيها بمتحف ال ترينالي دي‬2015( ‫لخريجنا عثمان خنجي‬ ‫ميالنو في إيطاليا وكذلك قامت سعادة الشيخة انتصار الصباح من الكويت‬ ‫) المرموق في باريس‬Grand Palais ( ‫أيضا بعرض أعماله في متحف‬ .2018 ‫في سبتمبر‬ ‫) بجائزة داميان هيرست وهي ال تزال‬2015( ‫كما فازت هناء السعدي‬ .‫ وعرضت أعمالها في كل من نيويورك ولندن إضافة إلى قطر‬،‫طالبة‬ ،‫ مستشار‬،‫وعن ذلك قال سعادة الشيخ الدكتور عبدالله بن علي آل ثاني‬ ‫ «لعبت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم‬،‫الديوان األميري‬ ،‫في قطر دور ًا أساسي ًا لعقدين مثمرين من الشراكة مع مؤسسة قطر‬ ،‫ في دولة قطر وخارجها‬،‫في تعليم جيل جديد من الرواد في عالم الفن‬ ‫ونحن بدورنا نفتخر بكل ما حققته الجامعة حتى اآلن ونتطلع إلى‬ .»‫مستقبل مشرق‬

‫–سعادة الشيخ الدكتور عبدالله بن علي آل ثاني‬

Beyond Tasmeem, faculty and alumni artists have had a profound impact on the visibility of Qatar on the global stage. In the recent Qatar Germany Year of Culture exhibition, “Contemporary Art Qatar,” held in Berlin, VCUarts Qatar faculty, alumni and students made up 25 percent of all artists exhibiting. Every year, faculty members show their work in an average of 30 different exhibitions all over the world, and faculty and alumni have taken up residencies in many global locations.

‫رفع المستوى العالمي لقطر‬ ‫ تعمل جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون‬،‫بعيد ًا عن التأثير االقتصادي‬ ‫التصميم في قطر على رفع سمعة دولة قطر ومكانتها العالمية وبشكل‬ ‫ أكبر مؤتمر‬،‫ والذي ينظم مرة كل عامين‬،‫ يعد مؤتمر تصميم دوحة‬.‫مستمر‬ ‫ ويستقطب الفنانين والمصممين من جميع أنحاء‬،‫من نوعه في المنطقة‬ ‫ والذي أقيم مؤخر ًا على‬،‫ في معرض الفن المعاصر قطر‬.‫المنطقة والعالم‬ ‫ شكل أعضاء الهيئة‬،2017 ‫هامش برنامج التبادل الثقافي قطر ألمانيا‬ ‫ من إجمالي الفنانين‬٪25 ‫التدريسية في الجامعة والخريجون والطالب‬ .‫في المعرض‬

‫«لعبت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر دورا‬ ‫ في تعليم‬،‫أساسيا لعقدين مثمرين من الشراكة مع مؤسسة قطر‬ .»‫ في دولة قطر وخارجها‬،‫جيل جديد من الرواد في عالم الفن‬

Raising the global profile of Qatar Beyond its economic impact, VCUarts Qatar is steadily building its public value profile and its contribution to the reputation and global positioning of Qatar as a whole. The 2016 MENA Design Education Outlook Report spoke highly of VCUarts Qatar, listing accreditation status, international field trips, the experimental design approach of the biennial design conference, and its cross-cultural approach to art history as key strengths of the University’s program, making VCUarts Qatar a standout in the region. The biennial design conference, Tasmeem Doha, is the largest conference of its kind in the region and attracts artists and designers from all over the Gulf and the wider world, drawing 500–1,000 participants at every iteration.

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OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // “Domestic Affairs” exhibition, Doha Fire Station, spring 2016. // Shirin Neshat, VCUarts Qatar, 2013.

Photograph: Sarah Lauck // “Reporting from the Field” exhibition, VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, spring 2018. // Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, “Modern Prayer Rug Competition” exhibition, Company House, Msheireb Museums, fall 2017. Source: Office of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser

Citizen engagement Hand-in-hand with the production of art is the engagement of citizens in art-related activities that contribute to their lifelong learning and physical and mental wellness. Each year, VCUarts Qatar offers over 100 different community art classes, training over 1,000 community participants in everything from Islamic calligraphy to photography, jewelry-making and fashion merchandising. Community members have access to VCUarts Qatar studios and equipment, its Materials Library and the University’s extensive collection of books on art and art-making to help encourage their creativity.

‫مشاركة المجتمع‬ ‫نعمل يد ًا بيد ومن خالل الفن في إشراك المواطنين في األنشطة الفنية التي‬ ‫تسهم في تعلم مهارات حياتية وتساعد على المحافظة على الصحة الجسدية‬ ‫ يقدم برنامج جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬.‫والعقلية‬ ‫ حيث يتمكن المشاركون من‬،‫ دورة مختلفة للمجتمع‬100 ‫كل عام أكثر من‬ ‫ للمساعدة‬،‫ والمكتبة‬،‫الوصول إلى استوديوهات الجامعة واستخدام معداتها‬ ‫ كما تقوم الجامعة بالسماح ألفراد المجتمع والمؤسسات‬.‫في تطوير إبداعاتهم‬ ‫ في مسابقة‬،‫ على سبيل المثال‬.‫باستخدام مرافقها بما تحتويه من تكنولوجيا‬ .‫سجادة الصالة الحديثة سمح للمتسابقين المشاركين باستخدام مكتبة المواد‬ ‫كما يتم استخدام الغرفة الخضراء في تصوير العديد من البرامج مثل برنامج‬ .‫نجوم العلوم المحلي‬

In addition, the suite of VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery offerings and lectures, which are held at both the University building and the Fire Station Gallery, draws over 2,000 people to VCUarts Qatar every year, adding value to the community life of Qatar and raising awareness about art and design. The Culture Trip website listed The Gallery at VCUarts Qatar as one of the top 10 galleries to visit in Qatar. Each year, The Gallery and the Crossing Boundaries lecture series bring famous artists and designers to Qatar to discuss their work with students and the community. They have included designers from Cirque du Soleil, Giulio Iacchetti, Bruce Sterling and Renny Ramakers, among others. The Gallery has hosted Mari Evans, Zineb Sedira, Khalid Albaih, Hassan Hajjaj and OFFF as well as regional artists and collectors such as Marwa Arsanios, Sherin Neshat, Yusuf Ahmad, Ibrahim Jaidah, Ismail Azzam, Ali Hassan and Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi.

‫ يقوم معرض جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث ومن خالل المعارض‬،‫باإلضافة إلى ذلك‬ ،‫ شخص إلى مبنى الجامعة كل عام‬2000 ‫والمحاضرات باستقطاب أكثر من‬ ‫كما تجمع هذه الفعاليات الفنانين المشهورين في قطر ويمنح الطالب‬ ‫ ريتشارد سييرا وجيف كونز‬:‫ ومنهم‬.‫والمجتمع الفرصة لمناقشة أعمالهم‬ ‫وأندرو كين وبعض من الفنانين الشباب أمثال مروة أرسانيوس وشيرين‬ ‫نشأت ويوسف أحمد وإبراهيم جيده وإسماعيل عزام وعلي حسن وسلطان‬ .‫سعود القاسمي‬

VCUarts Qatar participates in a variety of curatorial and conference partnerships that bring added value to the cultural environment of Qatar. The 2016 traveling exhibition, “Domestic Affairs,” held at the Fire Station Garage Gallery in partnership with Bureau Europa and Qatar Museums, saw faculty members and students collaboratively design the exhibition and demonstrate what home means to them through their artistic reflections. The University helps plan and host the biennial Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art, co-sponsored

by Qatar Foundation (QF), which brings top Islamic art scholars together every other year. VCUarts Qatar lends its technology and resources to the community: its Materials Library was used for the Modern Prayer Rug Competition, and the media green room for filming the local “Stars of Science” program.

Other community activities such as faculty engagement in the U.S. Embassy in Qatar’s Young Writers Program, which encourages writing in K-12 students, and the student-run Best Buddies program for children with special needs, means that VCUarts Qatar actively contributes to community- and skills-building activities for Qatar residents of all ages.

‫كما تساهم الجامعة في تنظيم العديد من المعارض في مطافئ مقر الفنانين‬ ‫وبالتعاون مع متاحف قطر وغيرها من األماكن باإلضافة الى مساهمة أعضاء‬ ‫الهيئة التدريسية في برامج مختلفة مثل برنامج «الك ُّتاب الشباب» وبالتعاون‬ .‫مع السفارة االمريكية‬

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ABOVE // Faculty and students, The Donkey Lady project, 2010.

OPPOSITE // Liberal Arts & Sciences Associate Professor Khaled Saoud, Ph.D., fall 2014.

‫–سعادة الشيخة المياسة بنت حمد بن خليفة آل ثاني‬

‫«حقيقــة أن جامعــة فرجينيــا كومنولث كليــة فنون التصميم في‬ ‫ دليل على األلفة‬،‫قطــر هــي أول فــرع جامعي في مؤسســة قطر‬ .»‫اإلبداعية وطموح العرب والمســلمين‬

Culture Context-relevant programs and community class offerings at VCUarts Qatar, combined with a schedule of artist lectures and gallery events, have helped to elevate and preserve the cultural heritage of Qatar. The scholarly research of faculty has also played an important role in cultural preservation. Three book projects highlight the importance of preservation: Hazawi, a classroom project that led to the publication of a collection of students’ stories and graphic representations led by Graphic Design faculty member Peter Martin; a faculty-led and studentillustrated collection of Arabic folk tales, The Donkey Lady and Other Tales from the Arabian Gulf (Berkshire Academic Press); and a poetry anthology, Gathering the Tide: An Anthology of Contemporary Arabian Gulf Poetry (Ithaca Press), the largest collection of Arabian Gulf poetry in translation to date.

Other faculty research has included developing culturally relevant pedagogies, using nanotechnology to preserve old books in Qatar, collecting Arabic graffiti in Egypt, exploring unique graphical languages of the region, research on Arab space science and preservation of Qatari heritage through the use of Faro Focus laser scanners and Virtual Reality.

In the words of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa at the 2017 Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art, “The fact that VCUarts Qatar was the first branch campus of Qatar Foundation testifies to the creative affinity and ambitions of Arabs and Muslims.” The great work of VCUarts Qatar has been to provide the means and access to fulfil those ambitions. Ibrahim Jaidah summed up these accomplishments best in his 20th-anniversary gala speech, saying: “It is remarkable that VCUarts Qatar has educated and graduated nearly 650 young minds since establishing its campus in Qatar. Having arts and design programs is of paramount significance as design permeates all aspects of our everyday lives. I would like to thank VCUarts Qatar for the role they have played over the past two decades to inject design and creativity into our society.”

‫الثقافة‬ ‫تعمل العديد من البرامج ذات الصلة التي تقدمها الجامعة مثل المحاضرات‬ ‫ باإلضافة‬،‫ودورات المجتمع وبالتعاون مع متاحف قطر وغيرها من المؤسسات‬ ،‫إلى منتدى حمد بن خليفة للفن اإلسالمي والذي يقام تحت رعاية مؤسسة قطر‬ .‫على الحفاظ على التراث الثقافي لدولة قطر وتطويره‬ ‫كما لعبت األبحاث العلمية ألعضاء هيئة التدريس دور ًا مهم ًا في الحفاظ على‬ ‫ مثل توفير المتاجر الشعبية المحلية التي تطور مقتطفات من‬،‫التراث الثقافي‬ ‫ واستخدام‬،‫ وتطوير أساليب تعليمية ثقافية‬،‫الشعر المعاصر في الخليج العربي‬ ،‫ وجمع الرسومات العربية في مصر‬،‫تقنية النانو للحفاظ على الكتب القديمة‬ ‫واستكشاف رسومات أثرية فريدة للغات المختلفة في المنطقة والبحوث حول‬ ‫ والحفاظ على التراث القطري من خالل أجهزة الواقع‬،‫علوم الفضاء العربية‬ .‫االفتراضي والمسح الضوئي بالليزر‬ ‫وكما عبرت عن ذلك سعادة الشيخة المياسة بنت حمد بن خليفة آل ثاني في‬ ‫ «حقيقة أن جامعة فرجينيا‬:2017 ‫منتدى حمد بن خليفة للفن اإلسالمي عام‬ ،‫كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر هي أول فرع جامعي في مؤسسة قطر‬ ‫ لقد عملت اإلنجازات‬.»‫دليل على األلفة اإلبداعية وطموح العرب والمسلمين‬ ‫الرائعة لجامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر على توفير‬ .‫الوسائل والطرق لتحقيق تلك الطموحات‬

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About VCU and VCUarts Virginia Commonwealth University traces its roots to two institutions that merged in 1968 to create VCU: the Medical College of Virginia, established in 1838 as the medical department of Hampden-Sydney College, and Richmond Professional Institute, founded in 1917. Today, VCU enrolls more than 31,000 students in 217 degree and certificate programs and encompasses one of the largest academic health centers in the nation, VCU Health, where the VCU Medical Center was named the number one hospital in the Richmond region by U.S. News & World Report.

Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts (also referred to as VCU School of the Arts or VCUarts) is a public nonprofit art and design school located in Richmond. One of the 14 degree-offering schools and colleges at VCU, the School of the Arts offers 18 bachelor’s degree programs, six master’s degree programs and one doctorate program. VCUarts was ranked first in the country among public university art schools, and second in the country overall

by U.S. News & World Report in 2017.

ABOVE // VCU Richmond campus. Photograph: Thomas Kojcsich, University Marketing, VCU OPPOSITE // Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Photograph: Iwan Baan

The Institute for Contemporary Art The Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at VCU, Richmond’s first major arts institution dedicated to contemporary art, opened to the public in April 2018. Designed by the internationally renowned firm Steven Holl Architects, the ICA provides a striking gateway to Richmond, Virginia, with its iconic torqued design and dramatic interior geometries. The ICA showcases a fresh slate of changing exhibitions and programs, mirroring the increasing emphasis on cross-disciplinary studies across VCU. As a university-wide resource, the ICA links campus, community and contemporary artists by supporting local creative communities, engaging an international network of contemporary artists and organizations and encouraging collaborations with VCU departments, faculty, students and the Richmond community.

‫نبذة عن جامعة فرجينيا‬ ‫كومنولث وكلية الفنون‪،‬‬ ‫ريتشموند‪ ،‬فرجينيا‬ ‫تأسست جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث عام ‪ ،١٩١٧‬واليوم تضم أكثر من ‪31,000‬‬ ‫طالب يلتحقون في ‪ 217‬برنامج ًا ودرجة مختلفة‪ .‬تتضمن كلية الفنون في‬ ‫جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث ‪ 18‬برنامج ًا في درجة البكالوريوس‪ ،‬و‪ 6‬برامج في درجة‬ ‫الماجستير‪ ،‬وبرنامج دكتوراه واحد‪ .‬تم تصنيفها عام ‪ ،2017‬وحسب تقرير أخبار‬ ‫الواليات المتحدة والعالم‪ ،‬كلية الفنون األولى في الواليات المتحدة األمريكية‬ ‫بين الجامعات العامة‪ .‬وجاءت في المرتبة الثانية في الواليات المتحدة األمريكية‬ ‫بين الجامعات ككل‪.‬‬ ‫في ‪ 21‬أبريل‪ ،2018 ،‬تم افتتاح معهد الفن المعاصر في مبنى جامعة‬ ‫فرجينيا كومنولث‪ ،‬من تصميم شركة (‪ )Steven Holl‬للهندسة المعمارية ذات‬ ‫الشهرة العالمية‪ ،‬يقع المعهد على مساحة ‪ ٤١,000‬قدم مربع‪ ،‬ويضم صاالت‬ ‫عرض وقاعات برمجة ديناميكية‪ .‬ولتحقيق الهدف من بنائه كملتقى للتعاون‬ ‫والتواصل‪ ،‬سيعمل هذا المعهد كحاضنة لالبتكار واإلبداع‪ ،‬ومساحة تجريبية‬ ‫للممارسات الفنية والتربوية‪ ،‬ومصدر للبرمجة التي ستعزز التجارب في جميع‬ ‫المجاالت الفنية‪.‬‬

‫تقــوم برامــج الفــن والتصميــم فــي جامعــة فرجينيــا كومنولــث‬ ‫ً‬ ‫دورا حيويـ ًـا فــي‬ ‫كليــة فنــون التصميــم فــي قطــر‪ ،‬والتــي تلعــب‬ ‫المشــهد الثقافــي لدولــة قطــر‪ ،‬بتطويــر مهــارات مبتكــرة فــي حــل‬ ‫المشــكالت مــع تلبيتهــا الحتياجــات الصناعــة والمجتمــع‪ .‬تســاعد‬ ‫المرافــق الفنيــة الحديثــة باإلضافــة إلــى الكــد والمثابــرة‪ ،‬الطــاب‬ ‫علــى التحــرك بفعاليــة بيــن الفصــول الدراســية واالســتوديوهات‬ ‫وأماكــن العمــل‪ .‬يشــتهر أعضــاء الهيئــة التدريســية والطــاب‬ ‫والخريجــون بقدرتهــم علــى دفــع الحــدود اإلبداعيــة‪ ،‬ووضــع‬ ‫المعاييــر التصميميــة وقيــادة هــذه الصناعــة‪.‬‬ ‫تســتضيف الجامعة عرض األزياء الســنوي الشــهير‪ .‬كما تســتضيف‬ ‫كل عاميــن ًّ‬ ‫كل مــن مؤتمــر تصميــم دوحــة الدولــي‪ ،‬ومؤتمــر حمــد‬ ‫بــن خليفــة للفــن اإلســامي‪ ،‬وتعمــل مــن خــال هــذه المؤتمــرات‬ ‫والعــروض علــى جــذب المصمميــن والفنانيــن واألكاديمييــن‬ ‫ً‬ ‫عالميــا‪ ،‬فــي الوقــت الــذي تعــزز فيــه الشــراكات‬ ‫المشــهورين‬ ‫المســتدامة بيــن الجامعــة والمجتمــع‪ ،‬مــا يعمــل علــى تعزيــز حيويــة‬ ‫الجوانــب التعليميــة واالقتصاديــة والثقافيــة لدولــة قطــر‪.‬‬

‫‪2‬‬

‫‪The University hosts the iconic annual fashion show,‬‬ ‫‪the biennial international art and design conference,‬‬ ‫‪Tasmeem Doha, and the biennial Hamad bin Khalifa‬‬ ‫‪Symposium on Islamic Art, attracting globally recog‬‬‫‪nized designers, artists and academics while fostering‬‬ ‫‪sustainable, university-community partnerships that‬‬ ‫‪enhance the educational, economic and cultural‬‬ ‫‪vitality of Qatar.‬‬

‫غرس الفنـون‬ ‫‪Cultivating the Arts‬‬

‫‪VCUarts Qatar’s art and design programs, which play‬‬ ‫‪a pivotal role in Qatar’s cultural landscape, develop‬‬ ‫‪critical and innovative problem-solving skills while‬‬ ‫‪meeting the needs of industry and the community.‬‬ ‫‪Modern art and design facilities as well as industry‬‬ ‫‪partnerships ensure students move effectively‬‬ ‫‪between the classroom, studio and workplace.‬‬ ‫‪The University’s faculty, students and alumni are‬‬ ‫‪recognized for pushing creative boundaries,‬‬ ‫‪setting design standards and driving industry.‬‬

‫‪// Art Foundation skateboards, a Tasmeem‬‬ ‫”!‪in the Classroom project for “3ajeeb‬‬ ‫‪Tasmeem Doha, 2015.‬‬

”

VCUarts Qatar is a place of creative innovation and collaboration, celebrated for enabling the holistic development of exemplary artists, designers and scholars who build vibrant communities and diversified economies.

VCUarts Qatar is the only school in the region that is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design, The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council for Interior Design Accreditation. The student body includes a diverse range of nationalities with students coming from more than 40 countries. These students are taught by highly skilled artists, designers and scholars from all over the world, making it a very inclusive and distinctive place to work and study.

Program growth Twenty years ago, when the branch campus of the prestigious VCUarts was founded in Qatar as the Shaqab College of Design Arts, its mission was simple—to prepare young women to enter the design industry. Over the years, the University’s vision and mission have changed to reflect how it uses its experience of providing high-quality teaching and research with real-world impact for the benefit of its students, and industry and civic partners.

VCUarts Qatar has been a significant part of every new development in Qatar’s art and design landscape since its inception, and has grown and developed, matching the country’s rapid expansion. Recognizing the interest of young men in design, the University began admitting male students into a coeducational environment from fall 2007.

Originally offering just three Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in fashion, graphic and interior design, it soon became apparent there was a need for more advanced study. In the fall of 2009, a Master of Fine Arts in design was added, marking the introduction of the first graduate program in design in the Gulf region. At its announcement, Dean Allyson Vanstone said: “The degree emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary design practice.

The M.F.A. will provide a robust environment for in-depth research, a platform for testing theories and a studio for integrated project development within the region and beyond.” The following year saw the inclusion of a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting + Printmaking, with the aim of contributing to cultural dialogue and development, enhancing visual literacy and encouraging the growth of individual perception, enterprise and artistic decision-making.

In 2012, the University welcomed the first group of students into its latest degree program, a new Bachelor of Arts program in art history. This was the University’s first non-studio degree supporting the development of the cultural infrastructure in Qatar.

“

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A History of VCUarts Qatar: Where Art and Design Education Foster Social Change

—Dean Allyson Vanstone

OPPOSITE // Aysha Al Sayed’s Eyes project, fall 2014.

Source: Jesse Payne

The M.F.A. provides a robust environment for in-depth research, a platform for testing theories and a studio for integrated project development.

LEFT // Dean Allyson Vanstone, “Tokyo to Doha: 3D Print Exchange” workshop by Tokyo Maker, “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015.

‫تاريخ جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‪:‬‬ ‫دور الفن والتصميم في تعزيز التغيرات االجتماعية‬ ‫جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر هي مكان لإلبداع‬ ‫واالبتكار والتعاون‪ ،‬والمعروفة بجهودها في تطوير الفنانين والمصممين‬ ‫المثاليين تطوير ًا شامالً يسهم في بناء اقتصادات متنوعة ومجتمعات‬ ‫نابضة بالحياة‪.‬‬

‫كما شهدت الجامعة تطور ًا في برامجها األكاديمية‪ .‬فباإلضافة إلى برنامج‬ ‫بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في كل من تصميم األزياء وتصميم الغرافيك‬ ‫والتصميم الداخلي‪ ،‬قامت الجامعة وفي خريف ‪ 2009‬بإضافة درجة ماجستير‬ ‫الفنون الجميلة في التصميم‪ ،‬وكان بذلك أول برنامج للدراسات العليا في‬ ‫التصميم في منطقة الخليج‪ .‬شهد العام التالي إدراج برنامج بكالوريوس الفنون‬ ‫الجميلة في الرسم والطباعة بهدف المساهمة في الحوار الثقافي والتنمية‬ ‫وتعزيز المعرفة البصرية وتشجيع نمو اإلدراك الفردي‪ ،‬واتخاذ القرارات في‬ ‫المشاريع واألعمال الفنية‪.‬‬

‫كانت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر ومنذ إنشائها‬ ‫جزء ًا مهم ًا من كل تطور جديد شهدته دولة قطر في الفن والتصميم‪ ،‬ونمت‬ ‫وتطورت جنب ًا إلى جنب مع التوسع السريع في البالد‪ .‬واعتراف ًا باهتمام الشباب‬ ‫ابتداء من خريف ‪.2007‬‬ ‫بالتصميم‪ ،‬فتحت الجامعة أبوابها أمام الطلبة الذكور‬ ‫ً‬

‫في عام ‪ ،2012‬رحبت الجامعة بأول مجموعة من الطالب في أحدث برامجها‪،‬‬ ‫وهو برنامج بكالوريوس الفنون الجديد في تاريخ الفن‪ .‬كانت هذه أول درجة‬ ‫بكالوريوس في الفنون تقدمها الجامعة في قطر بهدف دعم تطوير البنية‬ ‫التحتية الثقافية في قطر‪.‬‬

‫تم اعتماد جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر وبشكل‬ ‫كامل من قبل كل من الرابطة الوطنية لمدارس الفن والتصميم‪ ،‬ورابطة‬ ‫الجنوب للكليات والمدارس‪ ،‬باإلضافة إلى مجلس اعتماد التصميم الداخلي‪.‬‬

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”

“

As an important addition to the design innovation infrastructure of Qatar, the expansion included a Materials Library that was the first of its kind to open in the region and remains so to this day.

It is a unique resource for the University’s students, faculty and staff, and holds material and product samples that can be borrowed for research and presentation and to inspire design.

In 2017, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser launched a modern prayer rug design competition where the public could use the library as resource to develop their own innovative prayer rug.

In addition to the standard materials samples and product information, the Materials Library holds a wide variety of unusual and innovative materials samples, from a bamboo bicycle to Day-Glo fun fur, to help inspire and stimulate creativity. There is a special emphasis on materials available in Qatar, particularly those that can be used with various on-campus resources such as laser-cutting and vacuum forming. The collection continues to grow and develop to reflect new trends, sustainable practices and product ideas.

VCUarts Qatar has also developed leading-edge fabrication and digital studios, such as the Fabrication Lab, which includes 3D-printers and scanners, and a woodshop. The Innovative Media Studio contains a time-based lab complete with a green screen, a physical computing lab, professional-grade video cameras and sound equipment for designing, creating and experimenting with interactive media systems, structures and experiences. For several years, the Innovative Media Studio has been used to shoot sequences for the local TV show, “Stars of Science,” and remains a resource available to community partners.

—Michael Rao, Ph.D.

For 20 years VCUarts Qatar has had a profound impact on the way that Qatar does art and design.

Facilities and resource expansion In 2008, to support the expanded programs and future needs of the University, VCUarts Qatar broke ground on an expansion that more than doubled its facilities, bringing the total size to 20,488 square meters. In 2010, the building reopened with an additional 12 studios, three classrooms, a cafeteria/kitchen, three student lounges, a bookstore, administrative offices, 21 faculty offices, a high-end media room and a large open exhibition/event area on the second floor with offices and studios on the ground floor.

OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // VCUarts Qatar’s Woodshop, 2014. // VCUarts Qatar’s Fabrication Lab, 3D printer, fall 2017. // The Constitute’s Alexander Jentsch, 3D ceramic printing, Tasmeem Doha, 2017. // VCUarts Qatar’s Materials Library, spring 2011.

‫التوسعة والمرافق‬ ،‫لدعم هذا التوسع في برامجها والتمكن من تلبية االحتياجات المستقبلية‬ ،2010 ‫قامت جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر وفي عام‬ .2008 ‫بمضاعفة مساحة مرافقها من خالل مشروع توسعة بدأ في أكتوبر‬ ،‫ متر ًا مربع ًا تقريب ًا‬9377 ‫كانت مساحة المبنى القديم (الجناح الجنوبي) حوالي‬ ‫ متر ًا‬١١,٤٥١ ‫قامت الجامعة بالتوسع وإضافة جناح شمالي للمبنى وبمساحة‬ .‫ متر ًا مربع ًا‬٢٠,٤٨٨ ‫ ليصل حجم المبنى اإلجمالي إلى‬،‫مربع ًا‬ ،‫سمح هذا التوسع بدمج برامج البكالوريوس والدراسات العليا تحت سقف واحد‬ ‫ وتوسيع المساحات التقنية لدعم‬،‫وربط مكاتب األبحاث وريادة األعمال بالمناهج‬ ‫جميع أشكال االبتكار والبحث بإنشاء مختبر الوسائل ومختبر التصنيع الرقمي‬ .‫ وتوسعة المكتبة وإضافة مكتبة المواد‬،‫واستوديوهات الطباعة‬ ‫تعد مكتبة المواد في جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‬ ‫ وهي مصدر تعليمي فريد‬.‫األولى من نوعها في المنطقة حتى يومنا هذا‬ ‫ وتحتوي على عينات من مختلف‬،‫للطالب وأعضاء الهيئة التدريسية والموظفين‬ ‫المواد والمنتجات التي يمكن استخدامها في البحث وتقديم العروض والتي‬ .‫يمكن أن تلهم التصميم والمصممين‬ ‫ أقامت العديد‬،‫خطت الجامعة خطوات كبيرة في مجال البرامج العامة أيض ًا‬ ‫من المؤتمرات المتاحة لمشاركة المجتمع مثل مؤتمر تصميم دوحة الدولي‬ ‫ باإلضافة‬،‫ومؤتمر حمد بن خليفة للفن اإلسالمي اللذين يعقدان مرة كل عامين‬ ‫ بما في ذلك اطالق‬،‫إلى المبادرات اإلقليمية في مجال المنح الدراسية والبحوث‬ ،)MEDEA ( ‫«تصميم جورنال» ورابطة معلمي التصميم في الشرق األوسط‬ .‫والتي تعمل كمصدر إلهام لمعلمي التصميم في الشرق األوسط‬ ‫تستمر جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر في تعزيز‬ ،‫ والجامعات الشقيقة في المدينة التعليمية‬،‫شراكتها مع مؤسسة قطر‬ ،‫ ومتاحف قطر من خالل مختلف أوجه التعاون‬،‫وجامعة حمد بن خليفة‬ ،2015 ‫ في عام‬.‫ما يضمن تحقيق الطموحات المستقبلية لمؤسسة قطر‬ ‫قامت الجامعة أيض ًا بوضع خطتها االستراتيجية بما يالئم ويدعم رؤية قطر‬ ‫) لكل من‬2023–2013( ‫ والخطة االستراتيجية المطورة‬،2030 ‫الوطنية‬ .‫مؤسسة قطر وجامعة حمد بن خليفة‬

Art and design infrastructure development The University has made great strides in raising the profile of art and design in the region through its public programming.

From the biennial international art and design conference, Tasmeem Doha, and the biennial Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art, to a rigorous schedule of gallery shows and artist lectures, VCUarts Qatar has become a hub of cultural activity and scholarship.

Other initiatives in scholarship and research, including context-relevant research and spearheading the creation of The Middle East Design Educators Association, which serves as an informational platform for design educators in the Middle East, have helped VCUarts Qatar improve the artistic and design infrastructure of the region.

The network of artists and designers, curators and teachers brings together VCUarts Qatar graduates who are pursuing successful careers within the government, non-profit and private industries in Qatar and around the world. Many graduates have gone on to establish their own businesses, thereby contributing to the development of the small and medium enterprise culture in Qatar, while others are now exhibiting and selling their works, contributing to the cultural visibility of the country.

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RIGHT // Materials Library Curator Richard Lombard, spring 2011.

OPPOSITE // “Portrait Machine” workshop

by Studio Moniker, “3ajeeb!”

Tasmeem Doha, 2015.

VCUarts Qatar continues to strengthen its partnerships with Qatar Foundation, its sister branch campuses, HBKU, Qatar Museums and the greater community through various research and teaching collaborations, thereby ensuring the visionary ambitions of Qatar Foundation are being realized. In 2015, the University also aligned its strategic plan to complement Qatar National Vision 2030, the development of HBKU and the Qatar Foundation 2013–23 strategic plan, ensuring its continued relevancy and contribution in the future.

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ABOVE L TO R // Art History Department field trip, Palermo, Italy, 2013. // Art History Department field trip, Rome, Italy, 2014. Source: Dina Bangdel OPPOSITE // Art History and Painting + Printmaking field trip, India, spring 2015. Source: Sage Lewis

‫–شون روبرتس‬

‫ والذي كان‬،‫«صمــم منهجنــا لالســتفادة مــن موقع قطــر المتميز‬ ‫ومنــذ العصــور القديمــة ملتقــا لطــرق التجارة العالميــة التي تربط‬ .»‫بيــن األراضــي اإلســامية والبحر المتوســط والمحيط الهندي‬

Programs

‫البرامج األكاديمية‬

B.A. in Art History The Art History program at VCUarts Qatar is the only undergraduate degree program of its kind in the Gulf region and offers a distinctive concentration in Islamic art within a global perspective.

‫بكالوريوس الفنون في تاريخ الفن‬ ‫برنامج «تاريخ الفن» في جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم‬ ‫في قطر هو برنامج البكالوريوس الوحيد من نوعه في منطقة الخليج‬ .‫والذي يقدم تركيز ًا مميز ًا على الفن اإلسالمي من منظور عالمي‬

The program is designed to focus on the interchange between the Islamic World, the Western World and the non-Islamic cultures of Asia. Students are offered the opportunity to study the complexity of cultural interchange that has formed the basis of an increasingly globalized modern and contemporary world. It shifts from a Western-oriented curriculum prevalent in most university art history programs to one that encompasses a multicultural approach.

‫تم تصميم البرنامج للتركيز على التبادل بين العالم اإلسالمي والعالم‬ ‫ فهو يقوم بتحويل المناهج الغربية‬.‫الغربي والثقافات غير اإلسالمية في آسيا‬ .‫والسائدة في معظم برامج «تاريخ الفن» الجامعية إلى منهج متعدد الثقافات‬

Such an approach reflects the geographical location and historical involvement of Qatar, which since antiquity has been part of international trade routes linking both the Central Islamic lands, the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean. Its location at the crossroads has created a rich and diverse culture in Qatar up to the present day.

This unique B.A. focuses on exchange and dialogue through visual culture and is particularly suited to Qatar and the region.

،‫ويعكس هذا النهج الموقع الجغرافي والمشاركة التاريخية لدولة قطر‬ ‫والتي كانت منذ العصور القديمة جزء ًا من طرق التجارة الدولية التي تربط‬ ‫ خلق هذا‬.‫بين كل من األراضي اإلسالمية والبحر المتوسط والمحيط الهندي‬ ‫ ثقافة غنية ومتنوعة في دولة قطر‬،‫الموقع االستراتيجي بين مفترق الطرق‬ ،‫ بكالوريوس الفنون في تاريخ الفن‬،‫ وهذا البرنامج الفريد‬.‫حتى يومنا هذا‬ ‫والذي يركز على التبادل والحوار من خالل الثقافة البصرية يناسب وبشكل‬ .‫خاص مثل هذه البيئة‬

‫بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في تصميم األزياء‬ ‫يوفر برنامج بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في تصميم األزياء فرصة مميزة‬ ‫للطالب لمزج التاريخ الثري للثقافة واألزياء والتقاليد العربية مع صناعة‬ .‫األزياء في القرن الحادي والعشرين‬ ‫ يتعلم الطالب أن تصميم األزياء هو أكثر‬،‫من خالل المناهج الدراسية المكثفة‬ ‫ فيتعلمون كيفية تطوير مجموعة من‬،‫بكثير من مجرد صياغة المالبس الجميلة‬ ‫ يكتشف الطالب مجموعة كاملة‬.‫ من مرحلة المفهوم إلى المنتج النهائي‬،‫األزياء‬ ‫ والرسومات‬،‫ وصياغة األنماط واأللبسة‬،‫من المهارات التقنية في رسم النماذج‬ ‫ كما تتضمن المناهج تعلم‬.‫ وتصميم المجوهرات والنسيج‬،‫التوضيحية الملونة‬ ،‫ ونظرية التكوين واأللوان‬،‫ وجماليات الموضة‬،‫التصميم بمساعدة الكمبيوتر‬ .‫ وغيرها من المقررات المتعلقة بإدارة األعمال‬،‫وتاريخ الموضة‬ B.F.A. in Fashion Design VCUarts Qatar’s B.F.A. in Fashion Design provides students with a unique opportunity to blend the rich history of Arab culture, fashion and traditions with the fashion industry of the 21st century.

Through an intensive curriculum, students learn that fashion design is far more than the crafting of beautiful clothing. Students learn how to develop a fashion collection, from concept to the finished product. Aspiring designers are encouraged to look beyond the traditional restrictions of fashion and to scrutinize clothing as it responds to lifestyle, sculptural practice, performance, movement, costume and art.

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Students are exposed to a complete range of technical skills in model drawing, pattern drafting, draping, color illustration, jewelry and textile design. The curriculum also includes computer-assisted design, fashion aesthetics, the theory of composition and color, fashion history and a range of business-related courses.

RIGHT TOP TO BOTTOM // Senior Fashion Design students, Corset Design class, fall 2016. // Fashion Design student, 2012.

OPPOSITE // Work by Sreehitha Saini (B.F.A. ‘18) for the 19th annual fashion show, “Pendulum,” spring, 2018.

‫–علي خان‬

‫«أبرز ما في قســم تصميم األزياء‪ ،‬عرض األزياء الســنوي‪.‬‬ ‫كل عــام هنــاك تحـ ٍّـد جديــد وطــاب جدد‪ ،‬لتبدأ الرحلــة‪ .‬نعمل على‬ ‫طــول الطريــق كمصمميــن‪ ،‬وكل عــام هوعام جديــد ومختلف»‪.‬‬

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‫بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في تصميم الغرافيك‬ ‫تصميم الغرافيك هو مجال تحليلي مبتكر يدمج الفن والتكنولوجيا والتفكير‬ ‫ يعمل برنامج‬.‫االستراتيجي في ابتكار األفكار والمعلومات وتوصيلها لآلخرين‬ ‫بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في تصميم الغرافيك والذي يستمر على مدى أربع‬ ‫ على تمكين الطالب من ممارسة التصميم والبحث وإعدادهم لمجتمع‬،‫سنوات‬ .‫اليوم الغني بالمعلومات‬ ‫ مع التركيز على التجريب‬،‫يستخدم المنهج مجموعة واسعة من الوسائل‬ ‫والتطبيق والتكامل بين التقنيات الجديدة والمهارات التقليدية والنهج متعددة‬ ‫التخصصات في تطوير ممارسات تصميم الغرافيك وثقافة التصميم داخل قطر‬ ‫ من خالل مقررات مختلفة في الطباعة والتصوير الفوتوغرافي والفيديو‬.‫وخارجها‬ ‫ يشارك الطالب في خلق‬،‫والتصميم التفاعلي وتجليد الكتب والطباعة الحريرية‬ ‫استجابات مبدئية ومفاهيم قوية ومبتكرة وسليمة بشكل رسمي للعديد من‬ .‫القضايا الموجودة اليوم‬ ،‫ إذا رغبوا‬،‫يُنصح الطالب بالعمل في مجال التصميم وريادة األعمال إلعدادهم‬ ‫ كما يتلقى الطالب تدريب ًا‬.‫في إنشاء مشاريعهم الخاصة في مجال تخصصهم‬ .‫من شركة معتمدة للحصول على الخبرة العملية‬ B.F.A. in Graphic Design Graphic Design is a creative and analytical field that integrates art, technology and strategic thinking to create and communicate ideas and information. VCUarts Qatar’s four-year B.F.A. in Graphic Design program immerses students in design practice and research and prepares them for today’s information-rich society.

The curriculum uses a broad range of mediums, focusing on experimentation, application and the integration of new technologies, traditional skills and interdisciplinary approaches to develop graphic design practices and the design culture within Qatar and internationally. Through courses in typography, photography, video, interactive design, bookbinding and screen printing, students are engaged in the creation of principled, conceptually strong, imaginative and formally sound responses to the many issues that exist today.

Students are advised on the business of design and entrepreneurship to prepare them, if they wish, to set up their own graphic design businesses. All students also complete an internship placement working with an approved firm to receive commercial design experience.

OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Work by graphic design student, spring 2016. // Graphic design student exhibition “Patterns of Change,” fall 2017.

Photograph: Levi Hammett // Work by Hazem Asif (B.F.A. ’16, M.F.A. ′18), “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” spring 2016. // Work by Aysha Al-Sayed (B.F.A. ’18), “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” spring 2018.

LEFT TOP TO BOTTOM // Work by graphic design student, spring 2016. // Mask for “3ajeeb! Masquerade,” 2014. Source: Michael Hersrud

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‫بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في التصميم الداخلي‬ ‫يجد برنامج بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في التصميم الداخلي والذي يستمر‬ ‫على مدى أربع سنوات الزخم في مزيج من االبتكار وأنماط السلوكيات البيئية‬ ‫ والمعتمد بالكامل‬،‫ يعتمد هذا المنهج‬.‫التي تؤكد على نهج التصميم الشامل‬ ‫ على التنوع واالبتكار‬،)CIDA ( ‫من قبل مجلس اعتماد التصميم الداخلي‬ .‫واالستدامة والتعاون‬ ‫ يعمل برنامج التصميم الداخلي على صياغة توقعات البرامج‬،‫امتثا ًال لهذه الرؤية‬ ‫ ابتكار المناهج‬:‫التي تحرص على مشاركة أعضاء الهيئة التدريسية والطالب في‬ ،‫الدراسية؛ والمبادرات التعاونية متعددة التخصصات؛ مسابقات التصميم‬ ‫ والمواءمة مع اتجاهات التصميم الناشئة؛‬،‫ التدريب‬،‫الرحالت الميدانية‬ ،‫ الطباعة ثالثية األبعاد‬،‫ نماذج انشاء األبنية إلكتروني ًا‬:‫على سبيل المثال‬ .‫ والتصميم المستند إلى األدلة‬،‫والواقع االفتراضي‬ ‫يتم تشجيع الطالب على تجربة مجموعة واسعة من المواد واألساليب‬ .‫مع التركيز على العوامل البشرية والتصميم المستدام‬ B.F.A. in Interior Design VCUarts Qatar’s four-year B.F.A. in Interior Design finds impetus in a combination of creativity and environmental behavior paradigms that underscore holistic design approaches. The curriculum, which is fully accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), promotes diversity, innovation, sustainability and collaboration.

In compliance with this vision, the Interior Design program creates program outcomes that engage faculty and students in curricular innovation, collaborative initiatives—interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary, design competitions, travel study, internships and alignment with emerging design trends, such as building information modeling, 3D printing, virtual reality and evidence-based design.

Students are encouraged to experiment with a wide range of materials and approaches while focusing on human factors and sustainable, responsible design. Whether working in the field, building models, or on their laptops in a studio, students are challenged to think critically and develop self-reliant design solutions and processes.

OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Interior design student work, spring 2016. // Interior design students’ work, 2011. // Work by Aisha Mohammed Al Naama (B.F.A. ’15), “BFA & MFA Exhibition” catalog, spring 2015.

LEFT // Interior design student work, spring 2016.

‫بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في الرسم والطباعة‬ ‫يتم في إطار برنامج بكالوريوس الفنون الجميلة في الرسم والطباعة الجمع‬ ‫ يتم تعريف المنهج‬.‫بين الفنانين والعلماء والطالب في مجتمع نابض بالحياة‬ ‫من خالل ممارسة األعمال االستثنائية داخل االستوديوهات والبحوث مع تركيز‬ ‫ وقد تم تصميمه لنقل المهارات التقنية‬،‫قوي على التفكير النقدي واإلبداعي‬ .‫والمعلومات إلى الطالب لبناء الثقة في تخصصه‬ ‫يضمن عدد وتنوع أعضاء الهيئة التدريسية استكشاف الطالب للعديد من‬ ‫ كما يعمل برنامج الفنان المقيم وبرامج‬.‫األفكار المتنوعة واألساليب المختلفة‬ ‫النشر على استقطاب العديد من الشخصيات الرائدة في عالم الفن المعاصر‬ ‫إلى الحرم الجامعي وإتاحة الفرصة إلقامة ورش العمل وإجراء مناقشات مع‬ .‫الطالب حول أعمالهم‬ B.F.A. in Painting + Printmaking A vibrant community of artists, scholars and students are brought together within VCUarts Qatar’s B.F.A. in Painting + Printmaking.

The curriculum is informed through practical studio work and research with a strong emphasis on critical and creative thinking and is designed to impart technical skills and intelligence to build a student’s confidence in their discipline.

34 // 35

The size and diversity of the faculty guarantees students’ exposure to multiple ideas and stylistic approaches. In addition, the department’s visiting artist and publishing program brings to campus leading figures from the world of contemporary art to discuss their own work, critique students’ pieces and lead workshops.

To artists working in this century and the globalized world, engaging in the University’s academic studio program is akin to entering a workman-like laboratory to investigate and redefine visual culture.

RIGHT TOP TO BOTTOM // Painting + Printmaking students, Fanoon workshop by visiting artist Diyan Achjadi, fall 2014. Source: Zachary Stensen // Painting + Printmaking student Emelina Soares, Fanoon workshop by sculptor Ranjani Shettar, fall 2015.

Source: Zachary Stensen OPPOSITE // Painting + Printmaking students, Fanoon workshop by visiting printmaker Yamamoto Koichi, fall 2012. Source: Rhys Himsworth

36 // 37

M.F.A. in Design The M.F.A. in Design defines and inhabits an area between design disciplines. The program is avant-garde, intellectually vibrant, socially engaging and actively linked to industry.

Its purpose is to produce designers who are experts at negotiating and utilizing elements of many different fields to construct new, tailored experiences.

Tomorrow’s designers must be able to understand their audiences, collaborators and patrons in original and authentic ways. Global cultures already experience design in a singular fashion. The program’s practices combine graphics, interaction, engineering, systems, architecture, fashion and product design into a merged experience.

Designers who are able to work outside their individual disciplines will be at an advantage. The designers of the future will need to navigate between forms of practice, combining elements and skills to create new products, visuals, environments and interactions.

ABOVE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Work by Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ’13), MFA exhibition “Hybrid Making,” HBKU Student Center, Tasmeem Doha 2013. // Work by Esra Kazem’s (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ‘13), “Beyond the Stated Function.”

Source: Esra Kazem // Work by Hawa Stwodah (M.F.A. ’16), Design Days Dubai catalog, spring 2016.

Source: MFA in Design Department OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Work by Elizabeth Yang Soon Ju (B.F.A. ’12, M.F.A. ’17), “Designing for Divorce: New Rituals and Artifacts,” Disengagement Ring; 3D-printed silver. Source: Elizabeth Yang Soon Ju // 3D-printed jewelry piece by Wajiha Pervez (M.F.A. ’17), “Personalized Augmentation Project,” spring 2016.

Photograph: Islam Shehab // Faisal Mohammad work (M.F.A. ’16), “Mapping: Personal Tour Guide Parasol.”

Source: Faisal Mohammad

‫ماجستير الفنون الجميلة في التصميم‬ ‫يعرف هذا البرنامج المنطقة بين تخصصات التصميم‪ .‬هو برنامج فريد‬ ‫من نوعه ونابض بالحياة فكري ًا‪ ،‬ومشارك ًا اجتماعي ًا وترتبط أنشطته بالصناعة‪.‬‬ ‫يهدف هذا البرنامج إلى إنتاج مصممين خبراء في التفاوض واستخدام عناصر‬ ‫من مختلف المجاالت في بناء وتصميم تجارب جديدة‪.‬‬ ‫يجب أن يتمكن مصممو الغد من فهم وتلبية متطلبات جمهورهم‪،‬‬ ‫والمتعاونين معهم‪ ،‬وزبائنهم بطرق أصلية ومبتكرة‪ .‬تقوم الثقافات‬ ‫العالمية حاليا بتجربة التصميم بطرق فريدة من نوعها‪ .‬تجمع ممارسات‬ ‫البرنامج بين الغرافيك والتفاعل والهندسة واألنظمة والهندسة المعمارية‬ ‫وتصميم األزياء وتصميم المنتجات في تجربة شاملة‪.‬‬ ‫سيتمكن المصممون القادرون على العمل خارج تخصصهم من التميز‪.‬‬ ‫سيحتاج مصممو المستقبل إلى التنقل بين األشكال المختلفة للممارسات‪،‬‬ ‫والجمع بين العناصر والمهارات الالزمة إلنشاء منتجات وصور وبيئات‬ ‫وتفاعالت جديدة‪.‬‬

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Educating the Whole Student ABOVE // Art Foundation student projects, fall 2017. Photographs: Hadeer Omar OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Art Foundation costume project, Surface Research class, spring, 2016.

Source: Nathan Davis // Art Foundation students, Time Studio class, fall, 2016. // Art Foundation student work, Space Studio, Personal 3D project, spring, 2016. Source: Alberto Iacovoni // Art Foundation Space Research project, making a horse model, “3ajeeb!”

Tasmeem Doha, 2015.

An education at VCUarts Qatar considers the whole student to ensure that they receive a solid education and graduate with a complete complement of employable skills and interpersonal competencies. VCUarts Qatar offers a number of programs to ensure students are academically sound, from the First Year Introduction for academic skills, and Art Foundation for art skills, to courses in Liberal Arts & Sciences, and an optional Honors program to challenge exceptional students. All of these programs are supported by the Writing Center and Library, which equip them with advanced writing and researching skills. Finally, the Student Affairs Office provides social support, counseling and other services to help students develop into their best selves and enjoy their time at VCUarts Qatar.

First Year Introduction The First Year Introduction program is aimed at academically high-achieving Qatari students with limited studio experience.

It features an intensive first-year studio sequence alongside the University’s required first-year general education courses, providing an opportunity to develop the skills, processes and practices necessary to advance to the Art Foundation studios the following year.

The Writing Center and Library VCUarts Qatar’s Writing Center’s mission is to help students use English to clarify their thinking, organize their thoughts and convey them appropriately to an audience. The Center offers one-on-one writing support in any discipline ranging from preliminary planning through all the steps of the writing process, including help in using English as a second language.

Operating from the Library, the Writing Center offers students training on research methods and making use of the extensive collection of books on art and design, the Materials Library and a variety of technological equipment available for loan.

‫الفنون والعلوم العامة‬ ‫تستكشف مقررات الفنون والعلوم العامة النظريات واألفكار التي تشرح الفن‬ .‫ وتوفر أبعاد ًا تاريخية وحاسمة للعمل في االستوديوهات‬،‫وممارسات التصميم‬ ‫إن المهارات التي يتم تطويرها في مجال القراءة والكتابة والتفكير الناقد‬ ‫والرياضيات والعلوم تعزز التنمية الثقافية والفكرية واالجتماعية الشاملة‬ ‫لطلبة جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر وتعدهم الستقبال‬ ،‫ للحصول على الشهادة الجامعية‬.‫الحياة كمحترفين ومواطنين في هذا العالم‬ .‫يجب على الطالب تلبية جميع متطلبات برنامج الفنون والعلوم العامة وبنجاح‬ ‫برنامج درجة الشرف‬ ‫تم تصميم برنامج درجة الشرف في جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون‬ ‫بالتميز األكاديمي ويبحثون عن‬ ‫التصميم في قطر للطالب الذين يتمتعون‬ ّ ‫ من خالل الدخول في مناقشات مع أفضل‬.‫فرص لتعزيز التعلم وتحفيز الفكر‬ ‫ والمشاركة في الدورات الديناميكية متعددة‬،‫أعضاء الهيئة التدريسية بالجامعة‬ ‫ يقدم البرنامج الفرصه لكل طالب‬،‫ والقيام بالمشاريع واألبحاث‬،‫التخصصات‬ ‫ توفر الخبرات المكتسبة من خالل هذا البرنامج‬.‫الكتشاف اهتماماته الخاصة‬ .‫األساس للنجاح األكاديمي المتميز وتمهد الطريق للتعلم مدى الحياة‬ ‫ برنامج في مرتبة الشرف يلتزم وبشدة‬،‫النتيجة النهائية لهذا التقارب الفريد‬ ‫بتطوير التنوع الثقافي والدراسة متعددة التخصصات في سياق التفوق‬ .‫األكاديمي واإلبداعي‬ ‫مركز تعليم الكتابة والمكتبة‬ ‫يهدف هذا المركز إلى مساعدة الطالب في استخدام اللغة اإلنجليزية للتعبير‬ ‫ يقدم‬.‫عن أفكارهم وترتيبها وتوضيحها ونقلها بشكل مناسب إلى الجمهور‬ ‫المركز دعم ًا فردي ًا وفي أي مرحلة يحتاجها الطالب بدء ًا من التخطيط األولي‬ ‫ بما في ذلك المساعدة في استخدام اللغة‬،‫وفي جميع مراحل عملية الكتابة‬ ‫ ومن خالل المكتبة يتلقى الطالب تدريبا على طرق البحث‬.‫اإلنجليزية كلغة ثانية‬ ‫وكيفية استخدام المجموعات القيمة من الكتب في الفن والتصميم مع توفر‬ .‫العديد من األدوات التكنولوجية للطالب عند احتياجهم‬

”

‫ يتقدم الطالب بطلب لاللتحاق بالبرنامج الذي‬،‫بمجرد النجاح في هذا البرنامج‬ ‫ تقوم اإلدارات الرئيسية باتخاذ قرارات القبول من خالل مراجعة الملف‬.‫يختارونه‬ ‫ وتستند في قرارها إلى تقييم‬،)‫الشخصي للفصل الدراسي الثاني (فصل الربيع‬ ‫ وأعمالهم الفنية اإلبداعية وأدائهم ضمن مقررات‬،‫نتائج الطالب األكاديمية‬ .‫البرنامج التأسيسي‬

—Jesse G. Ulmer, Ph.D.

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The Honors Program The Honors Program at VCUarts Qatar is designed to fulfill the needs of talented and academically high-achieving undergraduate students. The program offers an advanced liberal education that cultivates interdisciplinary research, creativity, multicultural literacy, self-development, experiential learning and community-building.

As part of the Honors College in Richmond, Virginia, VCUarts Qatar’s Honors Program offers students opportunities to exchange ideas, ask questions and explore values; as part of VCUarts, the program champions artistic excellence and self-expression; and as part of VCUarts Qatar and Qatar Foundation, the program strives to contribute to the development of Qatar through creative innovation and collaboration. The end result of this unique convergence is an honors program deeply committed to developing cultural diversity and interdisciplinary study in a context of academic and creative excellence.

‫يتكون المنهج من أربعة مقررات رئيسية تمثل المبادئ األساسية للفن‬ ‫ باإلضافة إلى مقررات تمهيدية‬،‫ الرسم والسطح والمساحة والوقت‬:‫والتصميم‬ .‫قصيرة في األزياء والتصميم الداخلي وتصميم الغرافيك والرسم والطباعة‬

“

Liberal Arts & Sciences Courses Liberal Arts & Sciences courses explore the theories and ideas informing art and design practice, providing a historical and critical dimension to studio work in art and design. Skills developed in reading comprehension, writing, critical thinking, mathematics and sciences promote comprehensive intellectual, cultural and social development and prepare VCUarts Qatar students for life as professionals and as citizens of the world. Students must successfully fulfill all of the Liberal Arts & Sciences requirements before they are granted their degree.

‫برنامج الفن التأسيسي‬ ‫برنامج الفن التأسيسي هو برنامج إلزامي يستمر لمدة عام واحد مخصص‬ .‫للطلبة الذين يرغبون في الحصول على درجة البكالوريوس في الفنون الجميلة‬ ‫يتميز هذا البرنامج بالقوة في البحث الفني واتباع فلسفة ونهج التعلم من خالل‬ ،‫ ويهدف إلى تعليم الفكر اإلبداعي من خالل المشاريع والمحاضرات‬،‫االبتكار‬ .‫إلى جانب التدريب على المهارات والحرف اليدوية‬

The end result of this unique convergence is an honors program deeply committed to developing cultural diversity and interdisciplinary study.

Art Foundation The Art Foundation program is an intensive one-year mandatory program intended for students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. The curriculum is composed of four core classes that represent the basic tenets of art and design: drawing, surface, space and time, as well as short introductory courses in fashion, interior and graphic design and Painting + Printmaking.

Once successfully completed, students apply to the department of their choice during the annual spring portfolio review.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Drawing by student Yeon Hwang, “Art Foundation Home Exhibition,” HBKU Student Center, spring 2016.

Source: Jesse Payne // Student work, First Year Introduction Foundation project It Is What It Isn’t, fall 2014. Source: Ryan Browning // Dokanism project, Art Foundation Surface Research class, spring 2017.

Photograph: Hadeer Omar // Students’ work, VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015. // VCUarts Qatar’s Library, fall 2010. // VCUarts Qatar’s Library, Zwara open house, fall 2015.

‫”‬

‫‪VCUarts Qatar has long been a leader in developing‬‬ ‫‪student-focused programs across Education City.‬‬

‫شؤون الطالب‬ ‫تعمل دائرة شؤون الطالب على خلق ثقافة تتمحور حول الطالب تساعد على‬ ‫تعزيز قيم المشاركة والتطوير والتعليم المستمر وتنمية الخبرة األكاديمية‬ ‫للطلبة الجامعيين وطلبة الدراسات العليا من خالل عدد ال يحصى من البرامج‬ ‫والخدمات واألنشطة التي تشجع على التعلم من خالل التجربة وتعدد الثقافات‪.‬‬ ‫يجب على الطلبة الجدد االلتزام بحضور البرنامج التعريفي الهادف إلى تعريفهم‬ ‫بالحياة األكاديمية والمناهج الدراسية في الجامعة‪ .‬تقوم هذه الدائرة بمساعدة‬ ‫الطالب على االندماج االجتماعي واألكاديمي ومن خالل تصميم العديد من‬ ‫الفعاليات على مدار العام‪ ،‬بما في ذلك األنشطة الترفيهية ووجبات الغداء‬ ‫وتقديم النصح واإلرشاد‪.‬‬ ‫يساهم اتحاد الطالب (‪ )SGA‬في الحياة الطالبية من خالل احترام المجتمع‬ ‫والتقاليد وتنوع الثقافات‪ .‬يقوم االتحاد ببرنامج سنوي مميز من التبادل بين‬ ‫قيادة االتحاد بين كل من الجامعة األم في ريتشموند وفرع الجامعة في الدوحة‪.‬‬ ‫تشجع جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر الطالب على‬ ‫االنخراط بشكل نشط في النوادي واألنشطة المشتركة في الحرم الجامعي‪،‬‬ ‫يقدم قسم أنشطة الطالب‪ 17 ،‬نادي ًا واتحاد ًا طالبي ًا يقدمون العديد من األنشطة‬ ‫الترفيهيه ويخدمون المجتمع المحلي ويحتفلون بتنوع الثقافات والتقاليد‪.‬‬ ‫يعد التبادل الثقافي والتواصل أساسي ًا في برامج الدراسة بالخارج والرحالت‬ ‫الميدانية الدولية التي يتم توفيرها على مدار العام‪ .‬تمتد هذه الرحالت إلى أكثر‬ ‫من ‪ 17‬دولة‪ ،‬ما يعمل على توسيع دائرة التعليم إلى خارج الفصول الدراسية‬ ‫وتعزيز مهارات القيادة والتعرف إلى اآلخرين‪ .‬يتم تعريف الطالب إلى القوانين‬ ‫المتعلقة بالسالمة والرفاهية واألخالقيات والسلوك قبل كل رحلة وخالل فترة‬ ‫االستعداد وعلى مدار العام‪.‬‬ ‫يستطيع طلبة جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر اإلقامة‬ ‫في السكن الجامعي التابع لجامعة حمد بن خليفة حيث تتاح لهم فرصة‬ ‫المشاركة في مجتمع متنوع من الطلبة القادمين من أكثر من ‪ 60‬دولة وتبادل‬ ‫المعرفة والخبرات وتعلم أشياء جديدة ومثيرة مع ًا‪ .‬كما يتعلم الطالب في هذا‬ ‫السكن العديد من المهارات القيادية والكفاءة الثقافية والممارسات المستدامة‬ ‫والحفاظ على القيم والتقاليد القطرية‪.‬‬

‫‪Student Affairs‬‬ ‫‪The Student Affairs Office creates a student-centered culture‬‬ ‫‪promoting community, engagement, development and lifelong‬‬ ‫‪learning. The office enhances the academic experience for‬‬ ‫‪undergraduate and graduate students through a myriad of‬‬ ‫‪programs, services and activities that foster experiential‬‬ ‫‪and cross-cultural learning.‬‬ ‫‪The Student Government Association (SGA) contributes to the‬‬ ‫‪student life of the University while respecting and honoring the‬‬ ‫‪diverse community of traditions and cultures. A featured program‬‬ ‫‪is an annual exchange between the leaderships of the SGAs in‬‬ ‫‪Richmond and Doha.‬‬ ‫‪VCUarts Qatar also encourages students to actively engage in‬‬ ‫‪cocurricular clubs and activities on campus. The Student Activities‬‬ ‫‪and Engagement Office offers 17 student clubs and organizations‬‬ ‫‪that provide entertainment, serve the local community and‬‬ ‫‪celebrate the cultures and traditions of the students.‬‬ ‫‪Cross-cultural exposure and communication are key in study‬‬ ‫‪abroad programs, international service learning trips and depart‬‬‫‪ment field trips that are offered throughout the school year. These‬‬ ‫‪trips to over 17 countries expand learning outside the classroom‬‬ ‫‪and foster leadership and empathy. Programs related to safety,‬‬ ‫‪wellbeing and the VCUarts Qatar Code of Ethics and Conduct are‬‬ ‫‪offered during orientation, prior to all student trips and at other‬‬ ‫‪key times of the year.‬‬

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‫‪—Valerie Jeremejenko‬‬

‫“‬

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // 20th-anniversary Karak Hour, spring 2018. // VCUarts Qatar and VCU Richmond Globe students, Inland Sea, Qatar, spring 2016.

Photograph: Siddhartha Shakya // “Ram-Oh-Chocoloco” event, “3ajeeb!”

Tasmeem Doha, 2015, spring 2015.

Photograph: Siddhartha Shakya // VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., with VCUarts Qatar students and staff, annual Qatar Day celebrations, Qatar House, VCU Richmond campus, fall 2016. Pictured centre back row: Monica Rao; Akel Kahera, Ph.D., dean, VCUarts Qatar; Michael Rao, Ph.D. and James Frazier, interim dean, VCU School of the Arts. Photograph: Meghan McSweeney

Tasmeem Doha: Cultivating Leaders in a Collaborative Environment VCUarts Qatar’s biennial international art and design conference, Tasmeem Doha, provides Qatar and the region with an informed platform to explore the relevance and potential of art and design in society, while also delivering cultural, social and economic benefits.

About the conference When Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser first asked students to look for practical design solutions to local problems, it came as a bit of a surprise when VCUarts Qatar responded with an innovative solution to migrant labor housing just six years later: a fully built prototype of portable migrant worker housing.

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It all started at the 2007 Tasmeem Doha international art and design conference. VCUarts Qatar and VCU Richmond students participating in the conference’s student design charette visited labor camps in Qatar and then presented their design solutions for better living arrangements for workers employed in Qatar.

Building on the students’ innovative ideas, VCUarts Qatar’s Center for Research, Design and Entrepreneurship secured Qatar Science & Technology Park funding for the concept and developed it into a prototype—a holistic and sustainable model that could sustain businesses, including support services, housekeeping and catering, while also improving the lives of workers.

Innovation like this is not just about coming up with new products or ideas—it is about seeing the world as it could be. Tasmeem Doha has, since its inception in 2004, been that platform for students, scholars, artists, designers, industry and communities to apply human-centered design thinking to real-world challenges. While the conference, which focuses on unique and contemporary themes in art and design, has evolved over the years, some elements such as well-known expert guest speakers and workshops, have been constant features.

// ”Analogue Living in a Digital World” workshops, Tasmeem Doha, 2017.

The first 10 years The history of Tasmeem has involved constant evolution.

It was held every year for the first four years, and in celebration of VCUarts Qatar’s 10th anniversary in 2009, was the vehicle for hosting the Mousharaka/The Icograda Design Week in Qatar in collaboration with the International Council of Graphic Design Associations. In 2011, Tasmeem Doha became a biennial conference. One of the most important outcomes of this regular gathering of key artists and designers in the region was the creation of The Middle East Design Educators Association, spearheaded by VCUarts Qatar.

The first 10 years of conferences included noted guest speakers Valentino, Paola Antonelli, Tarek Atrissi, David Berman, David Wolfe, Rick Poynor, Valerie Steele, Ruth Carter, Shashi Caan, Fred Dust, Bruce Mau, Li Edelkoort, Stefan Sagmeister, Eva L. Maddox, Saki Mafundikwa, Ruben and Isabel Toledo, David Suzuki, Gijs Bakker, Natalie Chanin, Cameron Sinclair, Dan Sturges, Susan Szenasy, Pliny Fisk III, Twyla Tharp, Sheikh Majed Al-Sabah, Stephen Banham, Mohammed Harib, Sadik Karamustafa and Fabio Novembre.

The conferences covered the following themes: • 2004: “1st Tasmeem Doha”—the role that design plays in helping to establish and maintain the cultural identity of a country.

• 2005: “Inspirational Practice…Innovative Process”—design potential within a growing society.

• 2006: “Without You, I’m Nothing: Design in Need of Community, Community in Need of Design”—the symbiosis between the designer and those he or she designs for, and the roles of all the collaborators and participants in the design process.

• 2007: “Sometimes, You Just Have to Do It Yourself”—the role of sustainable design policies and practices in contexts where there is little social, regulatory, professional or economic support in place.

• 2008: “Design at the Cross Roads: The Intersection of Change and the Future”—the issue of navigation and “wayfinding” in Doha and Qatar.

‫مؤتمر «تصميم دوحة»‬ ‫غرس القادة في بيئة تعاونية‬ ‫بناء على طلب صاحبة السمو الشيخة موزا من طالب جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث‬ ‫ً‬ ‫كلية فنون التصميم في قطر البحث عن حلول تصميمية عملية لبعض‬ ‫المشاكل المحلية‪ ،‬كان من المدهش قيام الطلبة بتقديم حلول مبتكرة لتأمين‬ ‫ظروف معيشية وبيئة سكنية أفضل للعمال في قطر‪ .‬قام طلبة جامعة فرجينيا‬ ‫كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر وبمشاركة طلبة كلية الفنون من‬ ‫ريتشموند وكجزء من أنشطة الطالب في برنامج تصميم دوحة ‪ ،2007‬بزيارة‬ ‫سكن العمال واالطالع على الظروف المعيشية للعمال في قطر‪ .‬قام الطلبة‬ ‫بعد ذلك بتقديم توصيات واقتراحات لتأمين ظروف معيشية وبيئة سكنية‬ ‫أفضل للعاملين في قطر‪ .‬بعد أربع سنوات‪ ،‬قام مركز البحوث والتصميم وريادة‬ ‫األعمال في جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر بأخذ هذا‬ ‫المفهوم وتطويره ليصبح مشروع «إسكان العمال المهاجرين»‪ ،‬وهو نموذج‬ ‫شامل ومستدام يمكن أن يدعم األعمال التجارية‪ ،‬بما في ذلك خدمات الدعم‬ ‫والتدبير المنزلي وخدمة الطعام‪ ،‬وتحسين حياة العمال‪.‬‬ ‫ال يقتصر االبتكار على طرح منتجات أو أفكار جديدة‪ ،‬بل يتعلق برؤية العالم‬ ‫كما يمكن أن يكون‪ .‬كان مؤتمر «تصميم دوحة» الدولي‪ ،‬ومنذ عقده ألول‬ ‫مرة في عام ‪ ،2004‬حدث ًا سنوي ًا حتى عام ‪ 2008‬ليعقد بعد ذلك كل عامين‪.‬‬ ‫شكل هذا المؤتمر منبر ًا للطالب والعلماء والفنانين والمصممين في تطبيق‬ ‫أساليب عملية لمواجهة التحديات التي تواجه اإلنسان في الواقع‪ .‬في حين‬ ‫تطور المؤتمر‪ ،‬والذي يركز على مواضيع فريدة ومعاصرة في الفن والتصميم‪،‬‬ ‫ّ‬ ‫على مر السنين‪ ،‬شكلت بعض العوامل‪ ،‬مثل المحاضرين الضيوف والذين هم‬ ‫من الخبراء في مجاالتهم‪ ،‬وورش العمل المختلفة‪ ،‬سمات ثابتة في المؤتمر‪.‬‬ ‫أما مؤتمر تصميم دوحة ‪ ،2019‬فقد تولت مجموعة من الخريجات وهن‪:‬‬ ‫نهى فؤاد‪ ،‬هدير عمر‪ ،‬وجيهة بيرفيز وياسمين سليمان‪ ،‬التخطيط ورئاسة‬ ‫المؤتمر‪ ،‬ستتمكن هؤالء الخريجات من معالجة السياق المحلي بطريقة‬ ‫أكثر دقة‪ .‬إن انتقال تنظيم هذا الحدث من األساتذة في الجامعة‪ ،‬إلى الخريجين‬ ‫الجدد‪ ،‬منح هؤالء الرؤساء المشاركين الجدد صوت ًا فريد ًا يتكلم بشكل وثيق‬ ‫مع مستقبل الفن المعاصر والتصميم في المنطقة‪ .‬وهذا وإن دل‪ ،‬فيدل على‬ ‫كيفية قيام جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث في قطر بتعزيز وتنمية القدرات المحلية‬ ‫لدعم الفن والبنية التحتية للتصميم‪.‬‬

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ABOVE CLOCKWISE FROM L // “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015. // “Doha Burrowed City” exhibition installation, “Hybrid Making,” Tasmeem Doha, 2013. // “Synapse: Designer as Link,” Tasmeem Doha, 2011.

The past 10 years Synapse: Designer as Link The 2011 edition of Tasmeem Doha, “Synapse: Designer as Link,” aimed to forge dynamic links between students, creative problem-solvers, local community members, community stakeholders and VCUarts Qatar. It featured student-driven teams investigating the role of design as a problem-solving activity that tackled community issues, the everyday concerns of life and future concerns.

Conference activities were designed to generate awareness of design solutions, raise important questions and provide meaningful, realizable solutions to common issues.

Hybrid Making “Hybrid Making,” the 2013 theme of Tasmeem Doha, addressed the three themes of hybridization, interdisciplinary or collaborative work, and making, the production of an outcome or deliverable that was disseminated in the final phase of the conference.

As creativity and the act of making are key components in forming Qatar’s sustainable future, with art and design playing an important role in the ongoing transformation, the intent of the conference was to start a discussion about the creative process, making in society, and social making, with a focus on Doha and the region.

“Synapse” brought to Doha the renowned creative minds Tom Kelley, partner at the innovative design company IDEO; Naif Al Mutawa, Ph.D., creator of The 99 cartoon; Natalie Jeremijenko, director of the xDesign Environmental Health Clinic; and Michael Mauer, design chief at Porsche. Other expert speakers included Alice Twemlow, Mark Heggen, Hunter Tura, Fiona Raby, Bowman Heiden, Amal Ameem Al-Mehain, Hoda Baroudi and Maria Hibri, Roman Turczyn and Essa Al Mannai. The conference was co-chaired by VCUarts Qatar faculty members Muneera Spence and Pornprapha Phatanateacha.

Celebrated architect Rem Koolhaas was the keynote speaker and other speakers included: Ashley John Pigford, Lynne Bruning, Rashid Rana, Sigrious Sigurjonsdottir and Jeff Turko. The conference was co-chaired by Thomas Modeen, Ph.D., associate professor of M.F.A. in Design and Johan Granberg, Ph.D., associate professor of Interior Design at VCUarts Qatar.

Workshops included “Design Thinking through Business Model Innovation” by Alexander Osterwalder and Anders Sundelin; “Rules of Pattern” by Camden Whitehead; “Feast Tasmeem” by Johan Granberg, Carmen Innocenti and Rana Rwaished; “Can I Know: Avatar Construction for Social Media” by Peter Martin; “Codependency versus Co-Creation in Design Practice” by Brooke Chornyak; “Visualizing Tasmeem” by Roy McKelvey and Mary McLaughlin; “Viral Tasmeem: The Dynamics of Attention,” by Patty Paine and Lauren Maas; and “Exquisite Corpse Laser Cut Totem” by Thomas Modeen.

RIGHT CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Keynote speaker Casey Neistat, “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015. // “Praesentia: Drawing and Code” workshop

by Charlie Whitney and Sougwen Chung, “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015. // The EYESECT helmet, by The Constitute, “Analogue Living in a Digital World” Tasmeem Doha, 2017. // “Mechanisms of Delightful Interaction” workshop by Ashley Pigford, “3ajeeb!”

Tasmeem Doha, 2015.

The “Hybrid Making” workshops were interdisciplinary, collaborative and offered in charette-style, designed to produce viable end-products by the conclusion of the workshop.

The aim was to blend disparate ideas, methodologies and materials to produce exciting new products. Over five days, groups of 15 team members collaborated to synergistically create innovative end-products in the form of academic papers, fashion shows, videos, full-scale semi-permanent structures, and performances. The workshops were led

by Kristin Bille, Lynne Bruning, Corin Hewitt, Josh Hoeks, Ryan Rasmussen, Roger Kemp, Anthony Fryat, Sara Shafiei, Ben Cowd, Alex Schweder, Kelly Hutzell, Rami El Samahy, Mary-Lou Arscott, Nick Durrant and Steven Pippin.

3ajeeb!

In 2015, Tasmeem Doha focused on the theme of play as expressed by the Arabizi word 3ajeeb meaning “strange in a strange way, cool in a cool way, and slightly weird in a slightly weird way.” The “3ajeeb!” conference was co-chaired by Michael Hersrud and Levi Hammett, associate professors of Graphic Design, Richard Lombard, director of the Materials Library and Simone Muscolino, director of the Art Foundation at VCUarts Qatar.

Indo-Danish art duo Pors & Rao and award-winning filmmaker Casey Neistat were keynote speakers. During the Shawarma Sessions, a select group of workshop leaders from the “3ajeeb!”

Studios discussed their creative praxis in short-format presentations. They included Mahatat for Contemporary Art, Robin Schwartman & Tom Loftus, Alberto Iacovoni, Reed + Rader, Julien Breton, Jim Le Fevre, Giovanni Innella, Ailadi Cortelletti, Alessandro Contini, Tegan Bristow and Simone Rebaudengo.

Curated by Barcelona-based OFFF, the Day OFFF event showcased speakers, performances and presentations from fresh, young, fun, contemporary creative thinkers such as Sougwen Chung, Jan De Coster, Gavin Strange, Mucho, Steve Simpson and Hungry Castle. The last day of Tasmeem “3ajeeb!” featured an all-day festival at VCUarts Qatar. Attendees interacted with workshop outcomes, viewed exhibitions, browsed local wares, played games, watched performances and enjoyed being “3ajeeb!”

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Analogue Living in a Digital World Tasmeem Doha 2017, “Analogue Living in a Digital World,” explored the intersection between the analogue and the digital within the context of our experience, and examined where the two modes differ, intertwine and coexist. The conference looked at the changes and the differences between the industrial age and the digital/information age.

The conference featured renowned digital influencer Andrew Keen, along with Hasan Elahi, The Foundland Collective, Hisham Fageeh, Marquise Stillwell, Anouk Wipprecht, Khalid Albaih, Monira Al Qadiri, Carlo Ratti and Sophia Al-Maria. The conference was co-chaired by Marco Bruno, associate professor of M.F.A. in Design and Michael Perrone, assistant professor of Painting + Printmaking at VCUarts Qatar along with VCU Richmond Assistant Professor of Cross Disciplinary Media John Freyer.

Workshops engaged visitors on topics ranging from geolocation and 3D print technology, to tintype photography and pixel art. They included: “3D Ceramic Printing,” “Eyesect” and “SMSlingshot” by The Constitute/Goethe Institut; “Geolocation” by Nate Larson and Marni Shindelman; “Pressure to Be Someone” by Nick van der Kolk; “Pixel Art: Mass Pointillism;” “Tintype Photography” by The Penumbra Foundation and “Twin Majlis” by mOb (Middle of Broad) Studio. Simultaneous exhibitions by artists and designers, faculty and students from VCUarts and VCUarts Qatar took place alongside the workshops, lectures, debates and demonstrations.

Hekayat Tasmeem Doha 2019, “Hekayat,” is being co-chaired for the first time by alumni, a figurative passing of the baton to some of the talented artists, designers and thinkers VCUarts Qatar has developed.

The role of art and design in society is constantly evolving.

Tasmeem Doha, in collaboration with its stakeholders, continues to address what this means for Qatar and the world at large.

BOTTOM L TO R // “Praesentia: Drawing and Code” workshop

by Charlie Whitney and Sougwen Chung, “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015. // The Mobile Print Studio, HBKU Student Center, Painting + Printmaking Department, “Hybrid Making,” Tasmeem Doha, 2013.

OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // “Tokyo to Doha: 3D Print Exchange” workshop by Tokyo Maker, “3ajeeb!”

Tasmeem Doha, 2015. // Audience for Naif Al-Mutawa, “Synapse: Designer as Link,” Tasmeem Doha, 2011. // Dance party by Hungry Castle, “3ajeeb!“ Tasmeem Doha, 2015. Photograph: Richard Lombard

// “Bamboo Bike Building” workshop by Craig Calfee, “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015.

The Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art The Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art is a biennial conference, sponsored by VCU School of the Arts, VCUarts Qatar and Qatar Foundation. The symposium traces its roots to 2004 and, until 2017, was organized by Sheila Blair, Ph.D., and Jonathan Bloom, Ph.D., shared holders of the Hamad bin Khalifa Endowed Chair in Islamic Art at VCU. The Symposia on Islamic Art address significant themes and issues in understanding the visual arts of the Islamic lands.

In line with Qatar’s goal to be a leader in university education in the Gulf region and the Arab World, these Symposia seek to make the latest and most interesting scholarship on this growing field of Islamic art available and accessible to a wide audience, ranging from students and scholars to artists, architects, designers and the interested public.

Over the years, the Symposia have attracted over 2,200 attendees from Qatar and abroad, hosting over 70 speakers including leading scholars, curators and practitioners of Islamic art. The Hamad bin Khalifa Islamic Art Fellowship Program paid travel expenses for over 60 Islamic art and culture emerging scholars and senior scholars of diverse backgrounds.

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The first Symposium in 2004, “Expanded Frontiers,” was held in Richmond, Virginia. Eight scholars addressed a range of topics from the history of Islamic art to its relationships with the arts of Christian Europe.

The second Symposium, “Rivers of Paradise: Water in Islamic Art and Culture,” was held in Doha, Qatar, in 2007. Twelve speakers approached the many meanings and roles of water in Islamic art and society examining its religious, literary, archeological, architectural and functional perspectives.

The third Symposium, “And Diverse Are Their Hues: Color in Islamic Art and Culture,” was held in Córdoba, Spain, in 2009.

It included original presentations by 13 speakers on the role of color in Islamic art and culture.

“God Is Beautiful, He Loves Beauty: The Object in Islamic Art and Culture,” the fourth Symposium, was held at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha in 2011. Twelve speakers presented papers on objects in the Museum’s collection, covering the principal media, periods and regions of Islamic art from its origins to the present.

In 2013, “God Is the Light of the Heavens and the Earth: Light in Islamic Art and Culture,” was held in Palermo, Italy, and explored the integral role of light in Islamic civilization across a wide range of media, from the Holy Quran and literature to buildings, paintings, performances, photography and other works.

The sixth Symposium, “By the Pen and What They Write: Writing in Islamic Art and Culture,” was held at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. Twelve distinguished speakers addressed different aspects of writing in Islamic civilizations: from the birth of Arabic writing on stone to contemporary visual art in neon.

The seventh Symposium titled, “Islamic Art: Past, Present and Future” was held in 2017 at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, Virginia. It focused on the question of what the term “Islamic art” means from a range of viewpoints, including those of scholars, collectors, curators and artists.

Inspired by Qatar’s distinctive location as part of international trade routes linking the Central Islamic lands, the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean, the eighth Symposium, “The Seas and the Mobility of Islamic Art,” to be held in Doha, November 9–11, 2019, will foster a lively, engaged and critical discussion touching upon some of the most vital questions raised by these vibrant and rich interchanges of the arts.

Since 2009, the proceedings of each symposium have been edited by Professors Blair and Bloom and published by Yale University Press, resulting in the publication of six books.

‫‪OPPOSITE‬‬ ‫‪// Joseph Seipel, dean, VCU School of the‬‬ ‫‪Arts, opening ceremony of the 4th Biennial‬‬ ‫‪Hamad Bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic‬‬ ‫‪Art, fall 2011.‬‬ ‫‪BELOW‬‬ ‫‪// Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa, the‬‬ ‫‪7th Biennial Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium‬‬ ‫‪on Islamic Art, “Islamic Art: Past, Present‬‬ ‫‪and Future,” Virginia Museum of Fine Arts,‬‬ ‫‪Richmond, Virginia, fall 2017. Photograph:‬‬ ‫‪Kevin Morley‬‬ ‫‪RIGHT‬‬ ‫‪// Hassan Hajjaj, the 7th Biennial Hamad bin‬‬ ‫‪Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art, “Islamic‬‬ ‫‪Art: Past, Present and Future,” Virginia‬‬ ‫‪Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, Virginia,‬‬ ‫‪fall 2017. Photograph: Kevin Morley‬‬

‫منتدى حمد بن خليفة‬ ‫للفن اإلسالمي‬ ‫منتدى حمد بن خليفة للفن اإلسالمي‪ ،‬يعقد مرة كل سنتين‪ ،‬وبرعاية‬ ‫كل من كلية الفنون في جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث في ريتشموند فرجينيا‪،‬‬ ‫جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‪ ،‬ومؤسسة قطر‪.‬‬ ‫انطلق المؤتمر عام ‪ 2004‬ويقوم بتنظيمه كل من شيال بلير وجوناثان‬ ‫بلوم‪ ،‬واللذان بتشاركان رئاسة هذا المنتدى في الفن اإلسالمي في جامعة‬ ‫فرجينيا كومنولث في ريتشموند‪.‬‬ ‫يتناول المنتدى مواضيع ومسائل هامة في فهم الفنون اإلسالمية‪.‬‬ ‫وتماشي ًا مع رؤية دولة قطر واهتمامها بريادة التعليم الجامعي في‬ ‫الخليج والعالم العربي‪ ،‬تسعى هذه المنتديات إلى توفير أحدث المنح‬ ‫الدراسية وأكثرها إثارة لالهتمام في هذا المجال المتنامي في الفن اإلسالمي‪،‬‬ ‫لجمهور واسع من الطالب والعلماء والفنانين والمهندسين المعماريين‬ ‫والمصممين وغيرهم من المهتمين‪.‬‬ ‫جذب المنتدى‪ ،‬وعلى مر السنين‪ ،‬أكثر من ‪ 2200‬مشارك من جميع القارات‬ ‫واستضاف أكثر من ‪ 70‬متحدث ًا‪ ،‬بما في ذلك كبار العلماء والقيمين والممارسين‬ ‫للفن اإلسالمي‪ .‬وتمكن أكثر من ‪ 60‬باحث ًا في الفن والثقافة اإلسالمية‬ ‫من حضور المنتدى من خالل منحة حمد بن خليفة المدفوعة التكاليف‪.‬‬ ‫سيعقد منتدى حمد بن خليفة الثامن للفن اإلسالمي في الدوحة خالل‬ ‫الفترة من ‪ 11–9‬نوفمبر ‪ 2019‬تحت عنوان «البحار وحركة الفن اإلسالمي»‬ ‫وهو مستوحى من موقع دولة قطر المتميز كملتقى بين طرق التجارة الدولية‬ ‫التي تربط بين األراضي اإلسالمية والبحر المتوسط والمحيط الهندي‪.‬‬ ‫يشجع هذا المنتدى مناقشة العديد من المسائل الحيوية التي تثيرها‬ ‫هذه التبادالت الحيوية والغنية للفنون‪.‬‬

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In 2002, the first fashion graduate showcase, “Inside Out,” was held at the Ritz-Carlton Doha over two days, presenting the work of senior, junior and sophomore fashion design students.

In addition, established Lebanese-American fashion designer Reem Acra opened the show with her recent collection, giving it an atmosphere of a true fashion runway event.

Since then, the event has continued to follow the pattern established by earlier shows. A guest designer always opens the hour-long show with his or her collection, followed by sophomores, juniors and graduating seniors who showcase their portfolios. The graduating students submit their designs to a jury of fashion experts who select the best designs of the show.

VCUarts Qatar’s annual fashion show is also a collaborative affair. Over the years, the University’s graphic design students have worked closely with the Communications Department to create the branding for the shows, while interior design students have partnered with the event designers and planners to create the sets.

// Chair of the Fashion Design Department Sandra Bell Wilkins, fall 2017.

Guest designers have included renowned international designers, such as Anne Marie Paltsou, JJ Valaya, Isabel and Ruben Toledo, Maria Bonita, Eric Raisina, Eric Gaskins, Stéphane Rolland and Rami Al Ali, as well as rising designers from the region such as Sarah Takesh, Ansam Al Khalaf and Hebah Al Hasan.

”

The following year, “Traditions: Past, Present, Future” showcased the work of sophomore and junior fashion design students.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser attended, showing her support as she had the first year. Over 350 attendees supported the budding fashion designers. Her Highness continued to attend shows in the following years, establishing it as a fixture in Qatar’s social calendar.

Sandra Bell Wilkins, chair of the Fashion Design Department at VCUarts Qatar since its inception in 1998 until her retirement in 2018, says the show took five to six years to gain the recognition it has today. “Her Highness always attended, so people wanted to see her. Later, Her Highness Sheikha Jawahar bint Hamad Bin Suhaim Al Thani, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa and Her Excellency Sheikha Hind, also attended.”

In 2009, home campus alumna Melanie McClintock was the featured designer, and in 2014 senior fashion design students, Jame’t Jackson, Joey Zuraf and Noela Tian, also from the VCU Richmond campus, were featured as guest designers. The next step in the evolution of the event was the 2017 introduction of VCUarts Qatar’s alumnus as the guest designer. Ahmed El Sayed (B.F.A. ′11), co-founder of the fashion brand House of Nomad, was the first featured designer. In 2018, he was followed by VCUarts Qatar alumna Selina Farooqui (B.F.A. ′11).

—Sandra Bell Wilkins

The annual fashion show is both a formative and culminating element of the Fashion Design program, launching students into successful careers. The first annual fashion show, “Silhouette: An Elegant Evening of Fashion,” was held in 2000 at the Shaqab College of Design Arts. Beginning when the college was just two years old, the event showcased the work of its first year (sophomore) fashion design students.

When the event started in 2000, it used professional models.

However, responding to local feedback, the Fashion Design Department soon started holding local auditions to give the community the opportunity to be a part of the show. The VCUarts Qatar community has also assisted with backstage requirements, such as being dressers for the models.

“

Since its inception in 2000, VCUarts Qatar’s annual fashion show has maintained its iconic status in the country’s fashion landscape for close to two decades and continues to be the highlight of the year for the industry.

Over the past 20 years we’ve had a significant impact on how people think about design and the importance of design in our everyday lives.

VCUarts Qatar’s Annual Fashion Show —A Platform for the Future of Fashion

‫عرض األزياء السنوي‬ ‫عرض لمستقبل األزياء‬

‫حافظت عروض األزياء السنوية لجامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم‬ ‫في قطر‪ ،‬ومنذ انطالقها عام ‪ ،2000‬على مكانتها المتميزة في مشهد الموضة‬ ‫في البالد ولما يقرب من عقدين من الزمن وما زالت تمثل الحدث األبرز خالل‬ ‫العام لهذه الصناعة‪.‬‬ ‫يمثل عرض األزياء السنوي عنصر ًا أساسي ًا ومتنامي ًا في برنامج تصميم األزياء‪،‬‬ ‫وغالب ًا ما يفتح أمام الطالب فرص ًا مهنية ناجحة‪ .‬في عام ‪ ،2000‬أقيم عرض‬ ‫األزياء السنوي األول‪ ،‬والذي حمل عنوان ( ‪« ،)Silhouette‬أمسية أنيقة‬ ‫من األزياء»‪ ،‬في كلية الشقب للفنون التصميمية‪ .‬وكانت الكلية في عامها‬ ‫الثاني فقط‪ ،‬وعرض الحدث مجموعة من نتاج أعمال طلبة تصميم األزياء في‬ ‫عامهم الدراسي األول‪ .‬في العام الذي يليه‪ ،‬قدم العرض والذي أقيم ليوم واحد‪،‬‬ ‫مجموعة ألعمال طلبة تصميم األزياء في سنتهم الدراسية األولى والثانية‪،‬‬ ‫أقيم العرض تحت عنوان «التقاليد‪ :‬الماضي والحاضر والمستقبل»‪ .‬انتشر خبر‬ ‫حضور سمو الشيخة موزا بنت ناصر للعرض األول دعم ًا لهذا البرنامج‪ ،‬ليحضر‬ ‫العرض الثاني ‪ 350‬ضيف ًا لدعم مصممي األزياء المبتدئين‪ .‬واصلت صاحبة‬ ‫السمو الشيخة موزا حضور هذا العرض السنوي المتميز في السنوات التالية‪،‬‬ ‫ما جعل من هذا العرض حدث ًا رئيسي ًا منتظرا في التقويم االجتماعي القطري‪.‬‬ ‫في عام ‪ ،2002‬قدم عرض األزياء السنوي أعمال أول دفعة للتخرج من هذا‬ ‫البرنامج‪ .‬أقيم العرض تحت عنوان (‪ ،)Inside Out‬في فندق ريتز كارلتون الدوحة‬ ‫وعلى مدى يومين‪ .‬قدم العرض كذلك‪ ،‬مجموعات في األزياء من تصميم طلبة‬ ‫السنة الثانية والثالثة باإلضافة إلى افتتاحه بأعمال المصممة اللبنانية األمريكية‬ ‫الناشئة آنذاك‪ ،‬ريم عكرا‪ ،‬والتي عرضت مجموعتها األخيرة في األزياء‪ ،‬ما أضفى‬ ‫على الحدث جو ًا حقيقيا من أجواء عروض األزياء‪.‬‬

The transition from showcasing celebrity designers to alumni as guest designers was intentional says Wilkins, and reflects the maturity of the program. “I always intended to showcase alumni who had achieved success after completing the program. The professionals served as inspiration to the students and brought with them different design points of view. Selina and Ahmed were as good, if not better, than some of the famous designers we showcased. The annual fashion show is the perfect platform for promoting our alumni since the show continues to receive great coverage as well as international exposure.”

The fashion show has indeed grown in stature and size.

First hosted on one day, then two to include a very exclusive ladies-only night, and then over three nights by 2012 to meet the rising demand for seats. The 1,200 guests who come to the annual event have included dignitaries, ambassadors, university deans, faculty members, parents and members of VCUarts Qatar’s community along with the broader public.

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The celebration of fashion brings together spectators, friends and fashion enthusiasts from the region as well as sponsors that support the event and offer various awards. The W Doha Fashion Award, presented by the W Doha since 2012, gives the winning graduate the opportunity to showcase their collection at the W Doha and at an international W hotel. The W Doha has also promoted their award winners by hosting fashion shows.

2013 W Doha Fashion Award winner Rabab Abdulla’s collection was showcased at New York Fashion Week that year.

From 2013 to 2017, the annual fashion show was hosted by Salam Stores at The Gate Mall and The Salam Fashion Award included mentoring in the development and design of two bespoke collections, which were sold exclusively within a dedicated space at Salam Stores, Doha.

RIGHT CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Work by Farzana Abedin (B.F.A. ’16), “BFA & MFA Exhibition” catalog, 2016. // Sultana Jesmine collection (B.F.A. ’13, M.F.A. ’17), “Fingerprint,” 14th annual fashion show, 2013. // Sarah Wanas collection (B.F.A. ’16), “Reach,” 17th annual fashion show, 2016. // Alanoud Al Nuami collection (B.F.A. ’14), “Center Front,” 15th annual fashion show, 2014. Photograph: Juliette Sawyer OPPOSITE L TO R // Work by Khaltham Daham Al Kuwari (B.F.A. ’11), “Portfolio,” 12th annual fashion show catalog, 2011. // Maryam Al-Bouanin’s collection (B.F.A. ’18), “Pendulum,” 19th annual fashion show, 2018.

‫تطور العرض خالل السنوات حيث قدم مجموعات لعدد من المصممين‬ ‫المشهورين مثل‪ :‬المصمم اإليطالي آن ماري بالتسو والهندي جي جي فااليا‬ ‫والكوبيين األمريكيين إيزابيل وروبن توليدو والمصممة البرازيلية ماريا بونيتا‬ ‫والمصمم إيريك رايسينا المولود في مدغشقر واألمريكي إيريك جاسكينز‬ ‫وستيفان روالند الفرنسي ورامي العلي المولود في سوريا‪ .‬باإلضافة إلى عدد‬ ‫من المصممين الصاعدين من المنطقة مثل المصممة اإليرانية األمريكية‬ ‫سارة تاكيش‪ ،‬والمصممة الكويتية أنسام الخلف والبحرينية هبة الحسن‪.‬‬ ‫وفي العامين الماضيين‪ ،‬تميز العرض بتقديم أحد خريجي الجامعة كضيف‬ ‫العرض‪ .‬ففي عام ‪ ،2017‬قدم العرض المصمم الضيف أحمد السيد‪ ،‬المؤسس‬ ‫المشارك لـ( ‪ )House of Nomad‬وأحد خريجي جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية‬ ‫فنون التصميم في قطر‪ .‬وفي عام ‪ ،2018‬كانت المصممة والخريجة سيلينا‬ ‫فاروقي ضيف العرض‪.‬‬ ‫وعن هذا االنتقال المتعمد من تقديم أحد المصممين المشهورين كضيف‬ ‫العرض إلى تقديم أحد المصممين من الخريجين‪ ،‬تتحدث السيدة ساندرا ويلكنز‬ ‫قائلة‪« :‬كنت دائم ًا اعتزم تقديم خريجينا الذين تمكنوا من تحقيق النجاح بعد‬ ‫تخرجهم‪ .‬شكل هؤالء المتميزون مصدر إلهام للطالب وأحضروا معهم وجهات‬ ‫نظر مختلفة في التصميم‪ .‬كان أحمد وسيلينا رائعين إن لم يكونا أفضل من‬ ‫بعض المصممين المشهورين الذين عرضناهم‪ .‬يُعد هذا العرض السنوي لألزياء‬ ‫منصة مثالية للترويج للخريجين‪ ،‬حيث يستمر العرض في تلقي تغطية رائعة‬ ‫على الصعيدين المحلي والدولي»‪.‬‬ ‫تطور العرض قلب ًا وقالب ًا‪ .‬بدأ العرض في ليلة واحدة وأصبح ليلتين منذ عام‬ ‫‪ 2002‬ليلة منهما مخصصة للسيدات فقط‪ .‬وبحلول عام ‪ 2012‬أقيم العرض‬ ‫لمدة ثالث ليال متتالية لتلبية الطلب المتزايد‪ .‬ليضم أكثر من ‪ 1200‬ضيف من‬ ‫الشخصيات البارزة وعمداء الجامعات‪ ،‬والسفراء وأعضاء الهيئات الدبلوماسية‪،‬‬ ‫باإلضافة إلى أولياء األمور ومجتمع الجامعة بأكمله من أعضاء الهيئة التدريسية‬ ‫والموظفين إلى جانب جمهور أوسع‪.‬‬ ‫أقيم العرض التاسع عشر في ‪ 3‬مايو ‪ 2018‬وتحت عنوان (‪ )Pendulum‬في‬ ‫فندق ومنتجع ويستن الدوحة وبالشراكة مع ناصر بن خالد ومرسيدس بنز‪.‬‬ ‫حضر العرض أكثر من ‪ 800‬شخص‪ ،‬وقدم أربعون عارض ًا عرضوا أكثر من مائة‬ ‫قطعة من المالبس خالل ساعة من الزمن‪ .‬حضر العرض سعادة الشيخة هند‬ ‫بنت حمد آل ثاني التي قالت‪« :‬يسعدني حضور هذا العرض السنوي لجامعة‬ ‫فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في قطر‪ .‬يمثل نجاح هذا الصرح معلم ًا‬ ‫بارز ًا في تاريخ مؤسسة قطر وسعيها الدؤوب إلى تمكين أجيال المستقبل من‬ ‫النجاح واالزدهار في بيئة عالمية»‪.‬‬

56 // 57 The event has successfully partnered with the industry since its inception. Sponsors have included Gardenia, Al Hilal Cosmetics, Fauchon-Paris, Jaweed, Manawar Tailoring, Sayo Orchid Haute Couture, Doha Modern Printing Press, Mouawad Jewelers, All Women Magazine, Arco Qatar, Occasions, Qatar Airways, Tash Textiles, The Diplomatic Club Salon, Al Haque Rental and Real Estate, Mac Cosmetics, Qatar Ladies Investment Company, Paolo Bonja, 4U, Guerlain, Gio Cellini, Layal Beauty Salon, The Ritz-Carlton Doha, Caroline Designer, Intergroup, Amiri Gems, Qatar Today, Paris Gallery, Amwaj Textiles, Glam magazine, Carolina Herrera, Tajmeel Qatar International Beauty Academy, Makeup District, Bombay Silk Centre, Sara’s Secrets, Inglot, Tribal Gems & Jewellery, Apparel Qatar and Charming Charlie.

The 19th show, “Pendulum,” was held in 2018 at the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa in partnership with Nasser Bin Khaled and Mercedes-Benz. More than 800 people attended the show, which saw 40 models showcase 100 garments during the hour-long event. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind said, “I am delighted to attend the annual fashion show for Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar. VCUarts Qatar was the first Qatar Foundation partner university to be established at Education City, and, over the past 20 years, it has established itself as a center of excellence for education and research in art and design. Its success represents a significant milestone in our journey at Qatar Foundation towards empowering our future generations to thrive in a global environment.”

OPPOSITE TOP TO BOTTOM // ”Reach,” 17th annual fashion show, 2016. // Guest Designer Selina Farooqui collection (B.F.A. ’11), “Pendulum,”19th annual fashion show, 2018.

LEFT TO RIGHT // Munira Lafe Da Silva collection (B.F.A. ’14), “Center Front,” 15th annual fashion show, 2014. Photograph: Juliette Sawyer // Work by Aisha Al-Suwaidi (B.F.A. ’16), “Threads,” 16th annual fashion show catalog, 2014.

‫إشعـــال الخيــال‬ Igniting Imagination

3 // Pop Pup project, Yasmeen Suleiman (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’16), Barbara Charrue (B.F.A. ’14, M.F.A. ’16) and Marco Bruno, Arts in Marrakech International Biennale, 2016. Source: Marco Bruno

Central to the mission of VCUarts Qatar is encouraging critical thinking that ignites creative discussion and sparks the collective imagination. For two decades, the University has contributed to society through education, learning and research while collaborating with industry and academia to enhance innovation through knowledge exchange. These mutually beneficial partnerships give faculty, alumni and students the opportunity to produce ground-breaking research and innovation that solves complex problems, drives economic growth, and creates a more skilled, engaged and imaginative workforce. ‫تتركــز مهمــة جامعــة فرجينيــا كومنولــث كليــة فنــون التصميــم فــي‬ ‫قطــر علــى تشــجيع التفكيــر اإلبداعــي والنقدي الذي يثيــر الحوارات‬ ،‫ ســاهمنا‬.‫اإلبداعيــة ويشــعل الخيــال الجماعــي إلتمــام كل مهــم‬ ‫ فــي المجتمــع مــن خــال التربيــة‬،‫وطــوال عقديــن مــن الزمــان‬ ‫والتعليــم والبحــث والتعــاون مــع الصناعــات المختلفــة واألوســاط‬ ‫ تمنــح هــذه‬.‫األكاديميــة لتعزيــز االبتــكار مــن خــال تبــادل المعرفــة‬ ‫الشــراكات المفيــدة للطرفيــن أعضــاء الهيئــة التدريســية والخريجين‬ ‫والطــاب الفرصــة إلنتــاج أبحــاث وابتــكارات رائــدة تســاعد علــى‬ ‫ وتخلــق قــوة‬،‫ وتحفــز النمــو االقتصــادي‬،‫حــل المشــكالت المعقــدة‬ .‫ـاال ومهــارة ومشــاركة‬ ً ‫عاملــة أكثــر خيـ‬

Champions of Art and Design The creative production of the VCUarts Qatar community is socially engaged and connected to the international artistic arena. Faculty, students and alumni create work that is creative, inquisitive and rigorous. At VCUarts Qatar, new ideas are generated and flourish, diverse methods of inquiry are explored and a variety of experiences constructively coexist to contribute to the vibrant intellectual environment of the University’s community. The result is significant work from students, alumni and faculty members that pushes the boundaries of art, design and scholarship.

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Awards and recognition for student work 2008–2018 Barjeel Foundation collects student work Habeeb Buftaim (B.F.A. ′16), while a junior in the Painting + Printmaking program, used his art to explore “notions of nationalism, the rebranding of nations, identity and post-colonial cultural imperialism.” Habeeb began sharing his work on social media as a way to speak out about important issues. Over time, he developed a significant following, the extent of which was revealed when he was asked to participate at the “Post Oriental Odyssey” group exhibition featuring GCC-based artists at The Mine contemporary art gallery in Dubai. The show, held in spring 2015, included two of Habeeb’s creations: “The Star of Jaffar” and “The Making and Unmaking of a People.” After considerable media coverage, including features in Jumeirah Magazine and Al Bayan newspaper, Habeeb’s work gained the attention of prominent collector and cultural commentator Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi. His works were collected by Al Qassemi and have become a permanent part of the Barjeel Foundation collection.

The collection is considered one of the most significant in the region, and it includes works by artists such as Mona Hatoum and Shirin Neshat. The collection is also part of the Google Cultural Institute. Beyond the prestige of being collected at such a formative stage of his career, the experience gave Habeeb a wealth of practical knowledge. In his words, “I was able to learn how art shows, galleries and the art market work, from simple things such as paperwork, policies and shipping, to set up.

Most importantly, I got to know a lot of artists, curators and intellectuals in the art market.”

M.F.A. projects receive critical acclaim around the world The M.F.A. in Design program encourages the production of art and design solutions that respond to local challenges. A critical component of designing solutions is presenting them regionally and internationally to engage in further conversations about how these solutions can be implemented or drive further innovations in the field.

The annual Design Days Dubai is the region’s leading furniture and design fair. M.F.A. student work has consistently received critical acclaim and media attention that has pushed the students to the forefront of current discourse on art and design. A collaborative project between Assistant Professor Paolo Cardini and Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13) explored how to bridge the divide between a spare, modern design aesthetic informed by high-end retail experiences and the do-it-yourself ethos of the Swedish home store IKEA. “Deglobalizer” took standard objects such as those sold at IKEA and used local handcrafting techniques to customize them, showing the role design plays in getting local and global to converge into a recognizable hybrid. The project, shown at Design Days Dubai 2014, was identified as one of the most pertinent projects of the event by various magazines including Wallpaper* magazine; Living Corriere, the Corriere della Sera interior magazine; FRAME magazine and Le Quotidien de l’art.

Nesma Khodier’s (M.F.A. ′16) innovative thesis work “Oud/Kanun” was selected for exhibition at the highly competitive Global Grad Show, part of Dubai Design Week 2016, and was one of 145 projects chosen to represent 50 leading universities from 30 countries. “Oud/Kanun” explores the relationships between music, art, design and engineering, ultimately producing the “KANUD,” an instrument designed to make complex traditional music more accessible, intuitive and widely appreciated.

The following year, 11 M.F.A. in Design students exhibited their 3D-printed clay incense burners at Design Days Dubai 2017.

Created during their annual field study trip at a five-day workshop in Turin, Italy, the student designs were built with the Grasshopper visual programming software and printed using a Wasp 3D clay printer. The student work was featured online in the international design journal Domus.

TOP // “#Ghabga,” Yasmeen Suleiman (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’16), “Domestic Affairs” exhibition, Garage Gallery, Doha Fire Station, 2016. Source: Yasmeen Suleiman BOTTOM L TO R // M.F.A. in Design booth, Design Days Dubai, 2017.

Source: Rab McClure // Nesma Khodier work (M.F.A. ’16), “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” 2016. // Arabizi keyboard, master’s thesis project, Hadeer Omar (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’16), 2016.

Source: Hadeer Omar

M.F.A. in Design alumni works are also regularly featured at exhibitions around the world. Alia Khairat (M.F.A. ′13) was invited to present her work examining and developing new and innovative paradigms for clothing for migrant workers at the 2014 Cumulus conference in South Africa. Yasmeen Suleiman (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’16) exhibited at the international traveling exhibition “Domestic Affairs: The House is Home to a Paradox,” at the Doha Fire Station, in 2016, while Hadeer Omar (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’16) presented her short film 3arabizi Keyboard at the Cairotronica Festival in Cairo, Egypt, in 2016. Mona Makhlouf’s (B.F.A. ‘15, M.F.A. ‘17) work, “Auditory Breakfast,” was accepted for exhibition in the juried Open Design category of the 2016 Cumulus Hong Kong International Design Conference, hosted by the Hong Kong Design Institute.

Sultana Jesmine (B.F.A. ’13, M.F.A. ’17) participated in the first London Modest Fashion Week in 2017. Held at the Saatchi Gallery, the two-day event featured a range of ready-to-wear, couture and abaya collections. Jesmine exhibited her designs in the Winter/Fall Women’s Wear category. As the first of its kind in London, the showcase offered a platform for emerging modest fashion designers to be seen alongside established names from around the world. The designer was able to show her work and connect with industry insiders, retailers, modest fashion influencers, media and the British public.

M.F.A. students also collaborate with their professors to develop works that show on a global stage. For example, Associate Professor Marco Bruno’s “Pop Pup Tent,” made with the assistance of Barbara Charrue (B.F.A. ’14, M.F.A. ’16) and Yasmeen Suleiman (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’16) was featured in a juried group exhibition installed in front of Marrakech City Hall as part of the Arts in Marrakech International Biennale in 2016. Made of repurposed alumninum ladders and Senegalese mats, “Pop Pup” is adjustable, allowing it to be reconfigured to respond to the changing conditions of the site or the needs of its occupants. As installed in Marrakech, “Pop Pup” permitted visitors to interact with it by turning cranks and rolling the mats up and down, changing the level of privacy and quality of contained interior space.

Being part of a work in progress helped train the students while giving them a glimpse into the international exhibition scene.

Recognition for student research The research opportunities available to students have resulted in a number of funded projects. Several students have had classroom work accepted at conferences and festivals. In 2016, Artemis Tziolis (B.F.A. ‘17) presented a peer-reviewed paper, “Patriarchal Oppression and Marginalized Women Revisited: Deepa Mehta’s Diasporic Gaze in Fire and Water” at the Annual Conference of the South Asian Studies Association, New Delhi, India. The research paper was written for an upper-division course, “Indian Visuality and Film.” A multimedia piece exploring cultural constructs by Hala Gabr (M.F.A. ‘17) was accepted into the international juried group show at the Diffrazioni Multimedia Festival in Florence, Italy. The work, “Flustered Farida,” is a character and performance design work consisting of a storybook and video addressing the issue of female self-perception. In 2017, Aisha Al Mohannadi (B.F.A. ‘17) won the Ministry of Education and Higher Education’s Education Excellence Award for her research paper “Feminism Should Prioritize a Focus on Equity and Fairness.”

Competition wins, credentials and awards At VCUarts Qatar, students learn to think critically and create award-winning art and design solutions that matter. In the 2015–2016 academic year, the Interior Design Department offered a summer elective sustainability course designed to prepare students to take the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Associate (GA) exam, which awards successful students with internationally recognized certification.

Ten students passed the exam and were the first LEED GA students in Qatar and possibly the Middle East, bringing distinction not only to the students but also to the Interior Design program.

The same year, Interior Design junior students were involved in the International Interior Design Association student design competition “The Future of the Urban University” that challenged participants to reinvent the design of the urban university.

Students Jessica Hammam (B.F.A. ’18), Sarah Benabdallah (B.F.A. ’17), Kaltham Alkuwari (B.F.A. ’17), Faesal Alagala (B.F.A. ’17), Majdulin Nasr Allah (B.F.A. ’17), Sahar Ansari (B.F.A. ’17) and Mariam Alkhamis won third place in competition with students from other participating prestigious universities. Their award-winning proposal suggested “seamlessly creating a balance between living and learning by ‘inviting’ the city of Detroit into the university building and creating opportunities for the educational, vocational and commercial worlds to meet, merge and collaborate.”

Students have also been winning competitions locally. One junior and four sophomore Graphic Design students—Maryam Al-Malki (B.F.A. ’18), Latifa Al Kuwari, Kamla Al-Sulaiti, Sara Alafifi and Sarah Aweida—won a design competition sponsored by the Ministry of Transport and Communications. The winning design for the branding of the Smart Nation project included an identity mark, name, color system, pattern applications and a tagline, all organized within a guideline manual, and launched in 2017.

Outstanding student work has also led to mentorship opportunities. Rabab Abdulla (B.F.A. ′13) and Mariam Rafehi participated in the Arab Innovation Academy, a global event that guides students through the process of turning an idea to a tech startup in 10 days. Their project, Sukkari, which empowers diabetics by remotely connecting them to their doctors, won fast-track acceptance into Qatar Science & Technology Park’s XLR8 program, which gave them a three-month mentorship to help them bring their idea to life.

Faculty, students and alumni exhibitions span the globe In addition to being dedicated to developing every student’s creative potential, VCUarts Qatar’s faculty are working artists, designers, writers and scholars who exhibit, publish and design locally, regionally and internationally.

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“Contemporary Art Qatar” exhibition in Berlin The first survey of contemporary art produced in Qatar, “Contemporary Art Qatar,” was held at Kraftwerk Berlin in 2017 and included works by faculty, students and alumni highlighting the pivotal role VCUarts Qatar is playing in cultural development in Qatar. Othman Khunji (M.F.A. ‘15) showed his work, “Religious Vanity,” Nesma Khodier (M.F.A. ‘16) displayed her work, “KANUD,” and Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13) exhibited “Domestic Midkhan 03.” Hana Al-Saadi (B.F.A. ‘15), Roudha Al-Nassr (B.F.A. ‘15), Ahmed Al Jufairi (B.F.A. ‘14) and Emelina Soares (B.F.A. ‘15) also had their work on display. Emelina’s sand painting of a carpet called, “Shifting Identities,” was created on site and received special media coverage. Faculty work on display included Digital Fabrication Lab and Woodshop Coordinator Richard Blackwell’s “Perforated Facade,” “MAF1,” and “Compound” along with Assistant Professor Zachary Stensen’s “Picture Craft,” “Arrakis” and “Second Moon.” Assistant Professor Rachel Cohn’s “Searching for Fata Morgana,” Associate Professor Nathan Davis’ “Water with Water,” Director of Art Foundation Simone Muscolino’s “Moving Postcards” and Assistant Professor Maryam Al-Homaid’s “Replaced” were also exhibited.

Students Nourbano Al Hejazi (M.F.A. ‘18), Norah Al-Shammari (M.F.A. ‘18), Hazem Asif (M.F.A. ‘18), Noora Melhim and Sidra Zubairi (M.F.A. ‘18) presented outcomes of their Visual Communications course in an exhibition titled “Kalimat” at the Qatar Museums–sponsored finale of the Qatar Germany 2017 Year of Culture. The exhibition was featured in all local as well as the international news outlets Artnet News, The Art Newspaper, Le Monde, The World Around Us, Wallpaper* magazine, Art is About and German TV channel ZDF, among others.

“Ghost Ship Float” creates a mirage in New York Assistant Professor Rachel Cohn was invited to create a new work, “Ghost Ship Float,” specifically for the Stephen & George Laundry Line in Ridgewood, New York. This alternative gallery space, curated by Jessica Langley since 2015, invites participants to develop new projects to be displayed outdoors on a literal laundry line, highlighting the voyeuristic aspect of living in the city. Cohn’s installation included a large painting on mylar and an edition of 30 printed balloons. The piece attempted to simulate a “Fata Morgana” mirage of a floating ship, in which the balloons act as pixels that distort and obscure the image that appears in the reflection below.

Curated exhibition “Geo Necro” showcases art from science fiction Over the course of 15 months, Associate Professor Ryan Browning worked with collaborator/artist Casey Jex Smith and the ADA Gallery in Richmond, Virginia, to curate a massive conceptual exhibition of artwork, “Geo Necro.” They presented a challenge to the 88 curated contemporary artists to provide an artwork that they imagined would exist in a fantasy dungeon, that is an object or character or place from a dangerous and fantastic imagined world.

The exhibition featured paintings, drawings, collage, photography, digital media, video and performance, and represented a comprehensive collection of artmaking approaches and theories, including, but not limited to, gender studies, abstraction, material studies, formal representation, gonzo illustration, magical realism and institutional critique. Browning designed and created a handmade catalog to accompany the exhibition as a box set including several books, a set of cards, a vacuum-formed card tray insert and a silk-screened box.

Snapshot of international work by faculty in 2016 Each year, faculty have their work on display in a number of venues. Following is a brief snapshot of the variety and reach of these exhibitions. In 2016, Assistant Professor Donald Earley had two solo shows in West Virginia and an artist talk and exhibition at the Eric Shindler Gallery in Richmond. The Painting + Printmaking faculty exhibited all over the world, with Associate Professor George Awde’s solo exhibition “Still Departures” on display at the Sultan Gallery in Kuwait City; Associate Professor Rhys Himsworth’s piece “Independent Music Video and Sound Art” was shown at the CICA Museum, Seoul; Interim Director Flemming Jeffries’ work was part of the “Strange Wonders” exhibition at Msheireb Museums and Assistant Professor Zachary Stensen’s work was displayed at the Highpoint Center for Printmaking in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Associate Professor Ryan Browning contributed his artworks to a group exhibition in Portland, Maine. In addition, he presented several self-published print projects (artist’s books), including the hand-produced box set catalog for the “Geo Necro” exhibition at the Tokyo Art Book Fair.

Innovative work developed in Qatar exhibited in Qatar and Austria Assistant Professor Rachel Cohn, in collaboration with architect Clemens Bauder and sound artist Andre Zolgholy, exhibited a new installation at the Atelierhaus Salzamt in Linz, Austria, called “Searching for a Fatamorgana.” The exhibition was supported through a Faculty Research Grant and a residency through the city of Linz that facilitates projects between Austrian artists and designers and their international collaborators. The project began in 2016, when Bauder traveled to Doha, and, working with Cohn, created two sculptures that were installed in the desert outside of Zekreet. The exhibition in Linz included a documentation video and prints based on images from the desert, as well as a new large-scale installation incorporating painting, sculpture and live performance. The development of this work highlights both the value of Qatar as an innovative art destination and its connection with the global art world.

OPPOSITE TOP TO BOTTOM // Assistant Professor Rachel Cohn’s installation “Ghost Ship Float,” Stephen & George Laundry Line gallery, Ridgewood, New York, 2016. Source: Rachel Cohn // Emelina Soares’ work (B.F.A. ’15), “Contemporary Art Qatar” exhibition, Kraftwerk space, Berlin, Germany, Qatar Germany Year of Culture, 2018.

Photograph: Simone Muscolino ABOVE // “Geo Necro” exhibition, Associate Professor Ryan Browning, ADA Gallery, Richmond Virginia, 2016. Photograph: Ryan Browning

Korean National Art Museum redesign proposal In 2016, Associate Professor Marco Bruno provided a conceptual proposal reimagining museums of the future for the Korean National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. His proposal, developed with his business and creative partner Simone Carena, was entitled “Don’t Feed the Artworks” and posits that, with bioengineering, exhibits that include life will become important for museums. Bruno’s invited project was exhibited along with 29 other architectural firms’ projects at the museum exhibition “Rethinking Space: Voyage of Imagination.” The duo also exhibited their work “Borrowed City Messengers” in a juried group exhibition at Micro City Lab in Gong Indie Art Hall, Seoul, South Korea.

More recently, Bruno showed his work “Letters to the Mayor: Seoul/Pyongyang” at an invited group exhibition for the “Cities” exhibition at the Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism.

The two-month exhibition was shown at the Storefront for Art and Architecture in Seoul. Bruno and Carena also showed their work “Narrow City” at the same exhibition.

Faculty awards, distinctions and service VCUarts Qatar faculty frequently receive international recognition for their outstanding contributions to their fields. A sampling of these distinctions over the last couple of years follows.

Poetry laurels In the 2017–2018 academic year, Associate Professor Diana Woodcock received the Daniel Varoujan Award from the New England Poetry Club for her poem, “Fire Raging, Questions Blazing.” She won third prize at the 24th Annual Artists Embassy International’s Dancing Poetry Contest for her poem “Rejection, Rock Dove–style.” Woodcock was also a finalist for the Graybeal-Gowen Prize for Virginia Writers for her poem “Shenandoah.”

Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Patty Paine and Professor Law Alsobrook edit the Diode Poetry Journal.

Diode Poetry Journal is consistently ranked amongst the best poetry journals, and has published Pulitzer, Whiting and Pushcart Prize–winning poets. Paine’s fourth book of poems, Grief & Other Animals (Accents Publishing, 2015), was one of 12 finalists for the 2015 INDIEFAB Book of the Year Award in the poetry category.

Academic excellence and meritorious awards Associate Professor Johan Granberg, Ph.D., and collaborating team members Ben Robinson and Fahad Al-Kuwari (B.F.A. ‘14) were given a Merit Award from the 2017 CIDA Award for Excellence for their work “Exploring Space through the Lens Production Design.”

Interim Director of Liberal Arts & Sciences Byrad Yyelland, Ed.D., also contributed to the project by serving as a stunt coordinator and fight choreographer. Granberg and other assistant professors Mohammad Suleiman and Haitheim El-Hammali, Ph.D., were the recipients of the Academic Excellence Award and Meritorious Scholarly Contribution Award in recognition for their outstanding innovative research presented at the 29th International Institute for Advanced Studies in Systems Research and Cybernetics Conference held in 2017 in Baden-Baden, Germany. The research topic explored the synergetic possibilities of a small but concentrated campus with a focus on the outcomes of curricula change in the sophomore Interior Design Studio at VCUarts Qatar.

Keynote speech on digital fabrication technology Associate Professor Thomas Modeen, Ph.D., was the keynote speaker at an event organized at the Maker Cafe in Tokyo, Japan, in 2017. This, along with three other presentations conducted during his visit to Tokyo and Kanazawa, all dealt with the use of various digital fabrication technologies in the context of design and architecture. Modeen was also invited as a Galletly/Dickson Visiting Scholar at the University of Bath in the U.K.

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Faculty selected for prestigious global and local artist residencies During summer 2017, faculty members Zachary Stensen, Flemming Jeffries and Rhys Himsworth were selected for artist-in-residency programs. Stensen traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina, to participate in the Ace Artist-in-Residence International Program, which promotes artistic and cultural exchange and provides artists with a platform to further develop their practices, while engaging with other artists, curators and art institutions within Buenos Aires. Jeffries traveled to Iceland to take part in a residency at the Association of Icelandic Visual Artists in Reykjavik. Himsworth took part in the International Studio and Curatorial Program in New York.

Assistant Professor Rachel Cohn was invited to participate in a week-long residency in 2017 at the Ernest Oberholtzer Foundation in Rainy Lake, Minnesota, called “Artists in These Times.” Curated by former VCUarts Qatar faculty member, Mayme Donsker, it brought together artists and designers for a symposium on recent political, social and environmental changes.

Cohn and her department colleague Ryan Browning were also awarded a Doha Fire Station residency for the 2017–2018 cycle.

Faculty member produces patent Associate Professor Khaled Saoud, Ph.D., received a patent with his collaborator Shaukat Saeed for “Methods of forming aerogels.”

In 2015, Saoud received a Challenge 22 Innovation Award for “Scalable Synthesis of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS),” a sustainable material for use in the 2022 FIFA World Cup QatarTM. Initiated by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, Silatech and Qatar National Research Fund, Challenge 22 offered a unique opportunity to create innovative solutions to the challenges associated with hosting a major sporting event. The same year, The Nanotech Dubai 2015 Conference chairs and its international committee selected Saoud for its Distinguished Scientist award. The SETCOR 2nd Edition Nanotech Dubai 2015 conference brought together leading scientists, researchers, engineers, practitioners, technology developers and policy-makers in nanotechnology to exchange information on their latest research progress, innovations and business opportunities.

Servicing education, and art and design communities Faculty serve their profession and the community in a variety of ways by serving on boards and supporting local initiatives.

Associate Professor Ali Khan was elected as a member of the Editorial Board of the Journal of Fashion, Style and Popular Culture, in 2016. He covers Tokyo fashion week for the journal annually as a style influencer, and in the 2018 edition his photographs of the event featured on the cover of the magazine.

In 2009, Khan showed his collection at New York Fashion Week.

Associate Professor Khaled Saoud, Ph.D., served as a judge for the Supreme Council Research Competition for elementary schools in 2018 and organized and presented a workshop for a group of 18 K–12 students titled “Nanotechnology: Present and Future,” in the same year. Saoud sat on the committees of two HBKU Ph.D. students and was a mentor for a project titled “Super hydrophobic self-cleaning anti-dust glass” with Ahmad Ben Hanbal High School for Boys. The project was presented during the 2017 National Scientific Research Competition, where he also served as judge.

In 2017, Chair and Professor Cherif Amor, Ph.D., served on Qatar University’s College of Architecture and Urban Planning senior project and final thesis defense panel. He was honored with a certificate of recognition for his work at the College of Architecture and Urban Planning commencement in 2018.

Greet Provoost, assistant dean of Enrollment and Registration, was elected as vice-chair of the American International Recruitment Council (AIRC) Certification Commission in the 2015–2016 academic year. AIRC is the pre-eminent organization that certifies and regulates recruitment agents globally and has been a primary driver in the ethical regulation of the industry.

Director of Art History Dina Bangdel, Ph.D., was nominated to serve on the Board of Directors (2016–2018) for the College Art Association (CAA). CAA is the pre-eminent international leadership organization in the visual arts, and promotes these arts and their understanding through advocacy, intellectual engagement and a commitment to the diversity of practices and practitioners.

ABOVE // Design by Associate Professor Ali Khan, New York Fashion Week, 2009.

Source: Ali Khan OPPOSITE L TO R // Nour Elbasuni work (B.F.A. ’18), “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” 2018. // Eman Al-Mansouri work (B.F.A. ’18), “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” 2018.

“BFA & MFA Exhibition” 2018 The “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” which takes place at the VCUarts Qatar campus, is a free annual event, open to the public, featuring the work of all graduating students from the B.F.A. and M.F.A. programs. It is a celebration of the creative achievements of graduating students and provides the opportunity to preview Qatar’s emerging talent in the fields of graphic, fashion and interior design, Painting + Printmaking and design studies.

The graduate exhibitions have now been running for over a decade, with M.F.A. and Painting + Printmaking graduates starting to showcase their work in 2012. Each exhibition is on display for two to four weeks in May each year. The exhibition invites visitors to take their own mini-tour of the VCUarts Qatar building and discover the departmental exhibition zones around the building.

As a snapshot of what students accomplish during their years at VCUarts Qatar, the 2018 “BFA & MFA Exhibition” offers a frozen moment in time commemorating the University’s 20th year. The exhibition represents the range of interests of the University’s graduates: from the preservation of cultural heritage to art and design, from the exploration of gender roles to innovative technology, influencing the future and entrepreneurship.

Preserving cultural heritage Student Eman Al-Mansouri’s project explored the potential of educating people about traditional Qatari herbal remedies that can be used to treat a wide range of ailments and diseases. Nour Elbasuni’s (B.F.A. ‘18) work focused on how political and social identity in the Gulf in particular and the Arab World in general has drastically changed due to globalization and different types of colonization. “Superficial customs are being kept and idealized as essential identifiers of the culture, while important elements and previous traditions, such as the Arabic language and profound ideals, are slowly being replaced by foreign identities,” she said.

Exploring gender roles Amreen Ahmedi (B.F.A. ‘18), born in Dubai to Indian parents, laid out how the culture of her home country puts pressures on young women and tries to make them fit into moulds. Within this narrative, she showcased how she has always juggled two worlds: being a traditional desi daughter on the one hand, and a person who is not afraid to raise questions and voice her opinions on the other.

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Addressing societal issues Amira Natsheh’s (B.F.A. ‘18) goal was to research ill-being and the behaviors that emerge from it. Natsheh, who comes from a culture that avoids reference of any sort to the phrase “mental health,” due to the stigma associated with it, aimed to normalize the phenomenon of ill-being and to spark thoughtful conversations between people.

Exploring how behavior magnifies the growing issue of segmentation in Qatar’s population while the physical space becomes a facilitator that further disconnects people from different backgrounds formed the basis of Aljazi Al-Thani’s (B.F.A. ‘18) thesis. She sought to solve this issue by “bridging the educational, cultural and social gaps between Qatari nationals and the migrant community in Qatar.”

Dana Ahmed (B.F.A. ‘18) looked into the issue of obesity in Qatar through her capstone project, adopting a holistic approach that sought to change people’s unhealthy lifestyles within their work environments. “Inspired by the movement of water and the diffusion of colors, I designed longer circulation routes, non-conventional, interesting staircases and anthropomorphic furniture to encourage movement and transform daily work habits.”

Hamean Al-Noaimi’s (B.F.A. ‘18) time at VCUarts Qatar gave her a platform to create spaces that empower the disabled.

She experimented with shapes and forms to construct unconventional, playful and simplistic milieus and used the principles of inclusive design and universal codes to design exploratory experiences. “To support their healing process, I created positive diversions through sensory design. For example, indoor gardens and other places to escape to. Gathering spaces are also designed to encourage social interaction, which result in feelings of relatability among people with disabilities.”

Influencing the future Noof S. Al-Obaidli (B.F.A. ‘18) was influenced by traditional Arabic calligraphy and colors as well as modern complex patterns in exploring different styles of designs such as illustrations, brand identity, packaging and typography. Her mission was to connect the artifact that she had created with distinctive cultural aspects.

Noor S. Al-Kharaan (B.F.A. ‘18) was attracted to the idea of deploying her art to bring about change in society. “I am particularly interested in reversing the culture of dependence that is prevalent among youngsters in Qatari society and raising people’s awareness of its long-term risks. What is graphic design if not a tool to captivate people and incite them to think critically and ultimately consider changing attitudes and behaviors?”

Entrepreneurship Amena H. Al-Sheeb (B.F.A. ‘18) aspired to start a business that combines a design studio with a stationery store and that formed the base for her thesis. The concept behind her project was to celebrate and enjoy beautiful design in all their forms.

“My aim is to develop a well-planned business strategy that will help me organize and transform my ideas into reality.”

Amina Fakhroo’s (B.F.A. ‘18) thesis project focused on creating a collaborative environment for entrepreneurs to gather, produce and sell. She believes interior design can help motivate people to work and increase productivity.

OPPOSITE // Interior Design senior student work, “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” 2018.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Amena H. Al-Sheeb work (B.F.A. ’18), “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” 2018. // Amina Fakhroo work (B.F.A. ’18).

Source: “BFA & MFA Exhibition” Catalog 2018 // Aljazi Al Thani work (B.F.A. ’18).

Source: “BFA & MFA Exhibition” Catalog 2018

Another example of interdisciplinary collaboration was the Eco Arts class in 2016 who worked with Painting + Printmaking students and M.F.A. in Design students to explore activism in the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia (MENASA) region. The course was an examination of environmental activism and sustainability through regional art and design practitioners, with an emphasis on each student researching and realizing an independent project. In the first half of the semester, participants developed and researched their own local project alongside group research profiling artists and designers in the MENASA region. During the second half of the semester, the course became a studio project, where each participant’s independent projects and field studies were developed, submitted to group critique, and then shown in an exhibition. The class included guest lectures by other faculty, a workshop by Iranian artist Ashkan Sepahvand on the Anthropocene, extinctions and speculative fiction in the desert, and a field trip including performances and interventions in the desert rounded out the classroom experience.

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In 2016, associate professors Basma Hamdy and Denielle Emans initiated a teaching and learning platform called “Design Co-Lab,” connecting teaching to community service. This shared laboratory was founded on synergistic teaching, research, writing and extensive discussions on the political, social and cultural implications of design, with a focus on collaboration and the integration of students’ diverse skills and acuities. The same year, Co-Lab participated in the Wajha project, a social initiative that uses design and branding knowledge to help local communities in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region that cannot afford design expenses. Thanks to this classroom initiative, Honey Queen, a small Bengali restaurant in Doha, received a free makeover. Rabeya Khatoon (B.F.A. ’17), Alisha Saiyed (B.F.A. ’17), Aisha Al-Saad (B.F.A. ’17) and Muneera Al-Obaidan (B.F.A. ’18) won second place for the project in the Wajha Project Competition, the first regional competition of its kind. This regional achievement was announced in 2017 during a live broadcast from Amman, Jordan to a virtual audience. The following year, another outstanding project emerged from the course, “The Spirit of the Loyals,” a campaign that highlighted the impact of the Gulf blockade on Qatari citizens and residents. Students investigated all sides of the issue, focusing on micro-topics ranging from economic impacts to historical influences. The project captured media attention with local newspapers reporting on the significance of the work and the role of art and design in national awareness. During the 2018–2019 learning laboratory, Graphic Design students explored how design propositions can trace the path to alternative worlds, raising awareness on collective future(s) as a form of design activism. This cutting-edge version of Co-Lab sheds light on past and present ideas of social justice, oppression and revolt through a fascinating survey of history, literature, art, film and television.

—Basma Hamdy and Danielle Emans

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Internal and cross-campus collaboration Interdisciplinary collaboration In the fall of 2017, junior interior design students partnered with graphic design students to develop an original retail brand. This multi-disciplinary collaboration engaged the students in holistic team learning, and the student teams developed an overall design approach together before dividing into their disciplines. After working individually on the graphic branding and store interior design, they converged to present a branded design package that included 2D- and 3D-interior design models and collateral materials, such as packaging. The collaboration was led by Graphic Design Associate Professor Levi Hammett, Assistant Professor Leland Hill, and Interior Design assistant professors Liam Colquhoun and Matthew Holmes-Dallimore. The idea behind the collaborative, multidisciplinary approach was to better reflect the kind of team dynamics commonly found in modern design studios and to foster a better understanding and appreciation of related design disciplines.

Collaboration also takes place within departments, such as studio courses that are open to junior and senior students. They enable students to develop a self-directed body of work, independent of their other studio classes. Students develop an artist’s statement at the beginning of the semester and give a presentation on their artistic practice before working independently within their studio.

The classes for juniors and seniors allow students to work alongside one another. Studio visits take place with both instructors of record and sometimes include additional faculty and visiting artists. Shared critiques take place every three weeks. The class concludes with a junior and senior exhibition off campus, organized by students.

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Qatar National Vision 2030 highlights the academic and social climate, future growth and the vision involved in establishing a knowledge-based economy. VCUarts Qatar supports this vision through its mandate to improve the communities within which it operates. The University is just one part of a greater whole, and its work to foster, support and advance collaborative relationships helps it accomplish its goals. VCUarts Qatar engages in collaboration at every level, from student activities and curricular projects to research and community programs.

This process helped provide students with a closer look at the places we so often see but never notice.

Power in Collaboration

OPPOSITE L TO R // Islam Shehab work (M.F.A. ’16), Eco Arts project, 2016.

Source: MFA in Design Department // Student LaRissa Rogers’ work, “Painting + Printmaking Exhibition ‘14,” Art 29 Gallery, W Hotel, 2017.

ABOVE L TO R // Students and faculty from the Art History, Graphic Design, Interior Design and Painting + Printmaking departments: a field trip to the international Global Trends in Contemporary Islamic Art workshop 1, Lisbon, 2014.

Photograph: Shakya Siddhartha // “MFA-on-the-Go” vinyl installation, Qatar House windows, Qatar Day celebrations, VCU, 2017.

Photograph: Meghan McSweeney

Studio and classroom collaborations also extend into field study trips that combine cultural experiences and learning with an interdisciplinary focus while also giving students the opportunity to participate in workshops with scholars and students from around the world. In 2014, faculty from Graphic Design, Art History, the Library and Qatar University, along with 10 students from each of the VCUarts Qatar majors, participated in a three-day workshop at the University of Lisbon, Portugal, to discuss “contemporary Islamic art” at the “Global Workshop on Contemporary Islamic Art Conference.” This was an opportunity to question contemporary Islamic art within a changing global environment and enhance and expand research skills by working directly with multidisciplinary faculty on an added research component.

A similar interdisciplinary field study trip to India was organized

by Art History and Painting + Printmaking in 2015. The study trip included 17 students from Art History, Painting + Printmaking, Interior Design and Fashion Design and five faculty. VCUarts Richmond visiting history faculty Babatunde Lawal also participated in the trip. The field study trip included visits to the Kochi Biennale and India Art Fair in New Delhi, two of the most important events for contemporary art in the region. This was the largest field study organized by the two departments and the cross-cultural experience allowed students to learn about the historical and cultural relationships/continuities between the Middle East and South Asia.

In one Interior Design class, a key initiative was to provide a “shared studio” experience for students from VCUarts Richmond and VCUarts Qatar. The students were asked to design a mobile exhibition (MobEx), showcasing an aspect of Richmond in a series of Qatar venues: meanwhile the Richmond students were tasked to do the same for a Qatar MobEx in Richmond. They organized into workgroups, utilizing Skype to conduct research into each other’s culture, and recorded the process on Facebook groups before finally uploading their individual concepts to Facebook for review. This model led the students to perform dual roles as both designers of their own kiosk and clients/consultants to the projects of the corresponding team in Richmond.

Sharing resources VCUarts Qatar works closely with VCUarts Richmond to sustain innovative projects in interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic academic partnerships. This enables the University to share its resources while leveraging intellectual capital to make new breakthroughs that can have significant impacts throughout the world.

In 2017, Associate Professor Denielle Emans used her research to enrich the education of four VCU students from Qatar and Richmond. Emans’ research paper was accepted at the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education Conference, following a double-blind, peer-review process. She then invited four outstanding Graphic Design students from her “Design for a Sustainable Future” course to travel with her and participate in the conference’s student summit. The title of the students’ project was “Co-creating Sustainable Futures: American and Middle Eastern Visual Design Students Explore Behavior Change.” On opening night, the students shared their design research with the attendees and had the opportunity to continue the dialogue throughout the four-day event. The students came away from the experience with new tools and tactics for leading sustainability initiatives in Qatar.

In 2017, for the third consecutive year, the Living-Learning community at VCU Richmond, Globe, collaborated with the Office of International Education and Student Programming to create a for-credit international experience. The focus was on global engagement and migrant workers in Qatar. In association with the Nepali Workers Association, 11 visiting U.S. students were able to go on-site to a migrant worker camp and engage in facilitated conversations about worker’s rights.

In fall 2014, the Islamic Art survey course, taught by Assistant Director of Art History and Assistant Professor of Islamic Art and Architecture Radha Dalal, Ph.D., included 15 VCUarts Qatar students and 10 Art History students enrolled from VCUarts Richmond. Students from both campuses benefited from this open platform as a global community of learners, exploring and experiencing first-hand the pedagogy of emerging technology in teaching and learning. In addition, this open platform provided VCUarts students the opportunity to access specializations that were not offered at the home campus.

In a collaboration orchestrated at VCUarts Qatar by Isabelle St-Louis, manager of Exhibitions and Lectures, and at VCU Richmond by Matthew Charboneau, Design Technology and Program coordinator and GoLab manager, first-year M.F.A. in Design students designed, prototyped and installed multiple cut hayak (welcome) vinyl murals on the wall and window surfaces of the public gallery at the VCUarts Qatar House in Richmond. The vinyl murals were developed in the Digital Design and Fabrication course taught by Assistant Professor Richard Blackwell. Aspects of life in Qatar, both traditional and contemporary, were juxtaposed to form large-scale patterns that were applied to the windows to filter sunlight, mimicking the effects of traditional mashrabia screens.

The departments of Fashion Design from Richmond and Qatar took the lead in formulating and developing an interdisciplinary design program for the summer of 2017. The program took place in Rabat, Morocco, at the prestigious École nationale d’architecture and explored topics such as sustainability and ethical design in the context of Morocco’s rich arts and crafts industry, which includes the production of goods from textiles, leather, silversmithing and pottery.

Collaboration with Qatar Foundation The close collaboration among VCUarts Qatar, Qatar Foundation (QF) and its centers, HBKU and Education City branch campus universities focuses on creating multi-disciplinary education and research opportunities to ensure productive interactions for students, faculty and professionals via a series of real-life challenges and industry projects.

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Enhancing professional development The nature of teaching techniques and teaching with technology and assessment is changing at a rapid pace. VCUarts Qatar believes in the development of a collaborative network for faculty to learn about new teaching techniques and strategies.

In 2014, VCUarts Qatar launched the Education City Teaching and Learning Forum with the aim of capitalizing on local knowledge and expertise in both research and teaching. The primary goal of the group is to promote and enhance pedagogical professional development for faculty across the disciplines.

The same year, Director of Art History Dina Bangdel, Ph.D., was involved in the first Education City–wide teaching collaboration “Doha Seminar: Uneasy Cosmopolitanism,” which included lectures from faculty from diverse disciplines on a thematic topic related to Qatar. Bangdel conducted a three-hour seminar class entitled “Museums in Doha: Sites of Negotiation and Dialogue” to students across Education City.

Assistant Professor Leland Hill collaborated in HBKU’s interdisciplinary initiative, “EBDA” (Start), a tailor-made program offered

by HBKU Student Center that focuses on building leadership skills in students through experience-based learning. Students and faculty from the different branches participated in EBDA’s “Not Your Average Spring Break: Nepal,” in 2016. Along with representatives from Reach Out to Asia and faculty from Northwestern University in Qatar, Hill worked with selected students from the different schools to develop workshops that focused on cultural exchange, computer and social media skills, health and hygiene, youth leadership and other intercultural skills.

In spring and fall 2016, Head of Research and Library Technology Michael Wirtz collaborated with Alan Weber, Ph.D., from Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) and Joseph Williams, Ph.D., of Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) to establish interdisciplinary teaching and learning opportunities, teach interdisciplinary research skills and to promote art and design library resources within Education City. The collaborators worked together to create Islamic arts–based research projects for their respective courses: “Writing about Art” (WCM-Q) and “Composition and Rhetoric” (TAMUQ). The student learning objectives included learning appropriate interdisciplinary research skills, understanding the value of interdisciplinary inquiry, and identifying quality information resources from outside their discipline.

Interim Director of Liberal Arts & Sciences Byrad Yyelland, Ed.D., and Interim Chair of Graphic Design Peter Martin collaborated with colleagues from TAMUQ and WCM-Q to develop a cross-university interdisciplinary course in Education City called “Wellbeing and Happiness for Self and Society.” The course considers various determinants and definitions of wellbeing and happiness, and aims to encourage students to develop interdisciplinary collaborative projects aimed at promoting wellness. This course was initiated by Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, vice chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation. Byrad Yyelland and Peter Martin collaboratively taught this course to Graphic and Fashion design students in spring 2018 as a prototype of the course, which is also taught to students from WCM-Q, NU-Q and HBKU. VCUarts Qatar’s Innovative Media Studio was approached by the “Stars of Science” production team for help producing their show in 2017. The flagship edutainment-reality TV show is a Qatar Foundation initiative and is the Arab World’s leading innovation show. For its 9th season, the show’s organizers worked with the University to access the fully equipped, industry-standard studio production facility. Their entire production team, along with nine innovators, used the Innovative Media Studio. The team also availed itself of the facility’s green screen to film the opening title sequence. VCUarts Qatar’s relationship with “Stars of Science” dates back to 2010 when faculty shared design-thinking processes with the contestants through projects and workshops. Former Dean Allyson Vanstone participated as a judge in the fourth season in 2012, Associate Professor Khaled Saoud, Ph.D., served as mentor for the show’s 9th season and other faculty members have also served as mentors/judges over the years.

The Innovative Media Studio was also a draw for the Shams Generation corporate social responsibility initiative established by Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec) and Qatar Museums. The Studio connected QSTec to the M.F.A. program’s Physical Computing and Interactive Design Class that is supported by the Innovative Media Studio. The objective of Shams Generation is to provide an education platform for solar energy, intersecting art, design, science and technology. In 2017, the program expanded to include student participation at the university level. Students from the M.F.A. program collaborated with engineering students from TAMUQ to produce solar-powered, interactive, wearable devices as part of Shams Generation. They participated in three workshops conducted by U.S.-based solar artist Anthony Castronovo and two workshops conducted by a QSTec intern, Seif Hashem.

OPPOSITE L TO R // Undergraduate students and alumni from Fashion Design departments at Richmond and Qatar campuses.

Field Trip to Morocco, 2017.

Photograph: Hawa Stowdah // VCUarts Qatar Graphic Design and TAMUQ students designing a care for the Shell Eco-Marathon Challenge, 2017. Source: Leland Hill ABOVE L TO R // Students working on the Qatar Dynamic History (QDH) portal, a project by the Graphic Design and Art History departments, 2017.

Source: Denielle Emans // The VCUarts Qatar Innovative Media Studio, 2012.

The workshops provided an overview of existing solar-powered interactive projects within urban environments, and introduced a range of technical skills associated with designing armatures, programming and working with solar technology. The resulting projects were exhibited at the Doha Fire Station in 2017 at the “QSTec Solar Art Festival” and at the “Web Information Systems Engineering Conference” in Puschino, Moscow, Russia in 2017.

This type of collaboration demonstrates the value artists and designers can bring to the development of forward-looking technical solutions.

In fall 2017, four Graphic Design junior students, Sarah Elawad, Faheem Khan, Yeon Hwang and Reham Mohammed Fadl Hossain Ahmed, led by Associate Professor Levi Hammett and Assistant Professor Leland Hill, teamed up with TAMUQ students to design and fabricate a car. The team-designed car was entered in the Shell Eco-Marathon Challenge, an international student engineering competition. VCUarts Qatar students were tasked with designing the body of the car and worked closely with the mechanical engineering students to ensure design constraints were met. The class worked in collaboration with TAMUQ faculty member Michael Schuller.

Another QF project that pulled together collaboration across disciplines was the development of the Qatar Dynamic History (QDH) online portal. Graphic Design Interim Chair Peter Martin and Director of Art History Dina Bangdel, Ph.D., served as members of Qatar Foundation’s task force to develop the online portal.

This initiative was a directive of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser to establish a digital platform featuring the growing collection of historical data on Qatar, and was a collaboration with Qatar National Library, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar and the Qatar Science & Technology Park.

Martin designed and facilitated two end-user workshops to explore possible content, scenarios of interaction and functionality, and collated the findings of the two workshops into a document that was used to hire a web development and design production company to develop the initial portal. Simultaneously, Martin and Bangdel coordinated with faculty members to create real-life opportunities for students by assigning projects that included designing the look of the portal and creating content.

The spring 2017 “Interaction Design II” course taught by associate professors Basma Hamdy and Denielle Emans required students to work in groups to provide design concepts for the portal’s interface and interaction. The project culminated in the production of videos of three scenarios to demonstrate the QDH portal in use.

The project created an online information platform that links Qatar’s national historical narrative with regional and global events to foster the development of a sense of place and identity. It also presented an opportunity to create relevant historical content. To that end, Assistant Professor Jörg Matthias Determann redesigned his course, “The Art of Historical Detection,” to allow his students to be the first students to create content for the platform beginning 2017. The content included timelines, overview articles, in-depth analyses and artworks on the history of Qatar and the Gulf. To reach original findings, the students used many unpublished archival documents, including letters and photographs that are stored in the Qatar Digital Library.

Assistant Professor Holiday Powers, Ph.D., assigned her students the task of curating Determann’s students’ research as part of the “Museums in the 21st Century” class. Powers’ students selected corresponding images, produced in-depth research, and wrote three texts framing selected images for the multiple projected audiences for the platform (general public, student/teacher, researcher).

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Developing innovative designs In a pilot initiative in 2017 between QF Headquarters and the M.F.A. in Design, students were asked to create bespoke “Meeting Ware” to be used during QF Headquarters board meetings and other high-profile business events. “Meeting Ware” included tea and coffee service dishware and coordinating stationery. The work included the design of the individual service items: shape, functionality, color selections and imprint, as well as the overall design of the coordinating stationery items. Taught by associate professors Diane Derr and Marco Bruno, the “Meeting Ware” project aimed to build a set of design “pipelines” between VCUarts Qatar, the local design community and the various QF entities.

Collaborating with museums In spring 2016, as part of the developing collaborations with local museums, Painting + Printmaking students, led by Interim Director Fleming Jeffries, collaborated with the Msheireb Arts Center and Doha Fire Station to produce the exhibition “In Progress,” which explored the changing landscape of Msheireb Downtown Doha.

The students walked through the area, exploring its visuals, and met with the people who live and work there. They translated their ideas and experiences into their artworks, documented their Msheireb experiences and related them to their personal experiences and Doha as a scene. The exhibition took place at Doha Fire Station in 2017.

The same year, under the guidance of Assistant Professor Li Han, students designed and produced three medals for the Education City Running Series. The designs were based on the three running routes that surround Qatar National Library, Al Shaqab and the offices of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.

In their spring 2016 capstone course, Art History seniors collaborated with students from University College London Qatar’s (UCL Qatar) M.A. in Museum Studies to assist in curating the exhibition “Shifting Sands: A Journey of Qatar and its People” at the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, now part of their permanent collection. Students engaged in this real-world project as curatorial assistants in researching the works of art, translating object labels and assisting in the installation. This hands-on experience complemented their internship training, and fostered the development of critical pre-professional proficiency for their future careers.

Building upon QF’s successful Annual Research Conference Stage Design Competition that led to the design of the 2016 conference stage by Interior Design students, the department was approached

by Qatar Foundation Research and Development to involve students in designing the 2018 main set and stage for the event’s opening ceremony, which was held at Qatar National Convention Centre in 2018. The competition was an opportunity for students to showcase their creativity by producing a design solution, which was implemented by the event management company responsible for the conference production. Junior and senior students were involved, and they generated 20 entries. Ten entries were shortlisted by Interior Design faculty. The winning team chosen by QF comprised Sara Abdeen, Nour El Zeyat (B.F.A. ′18), Dana Abuhejleh, Afra Al-Kuwari, Sara Al-Mushairi (B.F.A. ’18), Shaikha Al-Mansoor and Amna Al-Hardan.

VCUarts Qatar has collaborated with QF and its centers on various projects over the years including some notable projects such as the Fashion Design Department’s design of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra’s attire in 2008, and school uniforms for Qatar Academy in 2009. Additionally, the Fashion Design Department designed the academic regalia for HBKU’s convocation, M.F.A. students designed the Social Development Center’s State gifts for the Amiri Diwan in 2010 and Interior Design students collaborated with EDAW (now AECOM) in 2008 and presented them with 22 follies for Education City’s newly opened Oxygen Park, among several other projects.

Assistant Professor Michael Perrone, in collaboration with Associate Professor Thomas Modeen, Ph.D., and Msheireb Art Center Curator and artist Ben Barbour, received a Faculty Research Grant to develop a new body of work that exhibited at Doha Fire Station. The exhibition detailed a locally realized project utilizing Qatar-based technology. It centered on the reuse of waste material from local industrial processes including architectural building projects, water desalination and infrastructure development. The work drew connections between large-scale architectural design and industrial construction processes and smaller-scale art and design studio practices.

The exhibition highlighted contemporary paradigms of making that were new to the region, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the creation of local artworks.

BELOW // “In Progress” exhibition, Doha Fire Station Gallery, 2017. Photograph: Michael Gallagher OPPOSITE TOP TO BOTTOM // “Parallels” exhibition, Painting + Printmaking senior students, QF’s Recreation Center Gallery, 2016. // “Patterns of Change” exhibition, Graphic Design student work, 2017.

Photograph: Levi Hammett

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Meeting Ware’ was a great chance to engage the students in a real-project experience.

The following year, the “Museums in the 21st Century” course was taught by Assistant Professor Holiday Powers at MIA, allowing students access to the collections. The class also invited more than 10 museum professionals from QM to speak to the students about diverse career paths within museums and the arts. Speakers included Sefa Seglam, chief museums officer, QM and Abdulla Karoum, Ph.D., director of Mathaf. In collaboration with Mathaf curators, the course “Modern and Contemporary Art of the Middle East” (spring 2016) was held at the museum, using the permanent collection as a key resource. Students were exposed to a diverse range of “real-world” research projects, aimed at transitioning into museum careers, developing art historical knowledge of the collection and hands-on knowledge of the institution.

Collaborations with Qatar Museums Collaborations with Qatar Museums (QM) provide international educational and research collaborative experiences for VCUarts Qatar students, faculty and international designers to share cultural approaches to design ideation.

Strengthened collaboration with sponsorships, internships and classes QM was partial sponsor of the VCUarts Qatar visiting Designer in Residence (DiR) program, 2011–2014. In fall 2014, the Qatar Brazil Year of Culture, QM sponsored DiR Felipe Fonseca, who conducted a two-week workshop module on the theme of “Gamiarra”—a Brazilian version of upcycling. In 2015, the cooperation continued in a slightly modified format with the sponsorship of a visit by Assistant Professor Maryam Al-Homaid to Turkey, the 2015 Year of Culture country, where she conducted research in collaboration with the Izmir University of Economics faculty.

—Marco Bruno

VCUarts Qatar’s Department of Art History collaborated with QM’s Education Department to initiate a formal credit-based internship program, as part of the Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) project, “Museums in the 21st Century and Global Art History.” In spring 2016, six seniors were placed in curatorial and education departments at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art (Mathaf) and the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), where they each completed 144 hours of pre-professional museum practicum.

All of the participants then received a job interview, and three were hired. Over the course of the summer of 2017, four junior Art History majors interned at Mathaf and the MIA. In an effort to enrich students through exposure to career environments, Art History professors continue working closely with curators, museum professionals and archaeologists within Education City campuses as well as from QM. In the 2014–2015 academic year, Art History faculty invited three MIA curators (Leslee Michelson, Nur Sobers-Khan, William Greenwood) and three archaeologists working on the Qatar National Historic Environmental Record project into upper-division art history classes as guest lecturers.

On-site education opportunities for students have continued with several new highly popular elective courses on offer to foster collaborations. These classes make use of QM resources, collaborations with faculty from the fine arts departments and international visiting speakers. More recently, the course “Arts of the Book” saw Associate Professor Jochen Sokoly, Ph.D., combine a historical art context with hands-on practice by bringing Indian artist Ajay Sharma to introduce students to traditional painting methods.

The Department of Painting + Printmaking worked with Mathaf to develop the course “Contemporary Curating Strategies.” The course, taught by Senior Curator Laura Barlow, provided senior students with the opportunity to learn curating strategies and project management skills in the production of exhibitions related to their work. The course collaborated with existing courses, “Experimental Printmaking” and “Painting Investigations,” to produce the senior exhibition “Parallels” at QF’s Recreation Center in 2016.

Mathaf held the “Patterns of Change” exhibition in its Project Space during the fall of 2017, which highlighted works from two projects developed in the Graphic Design classrooms. In the project Mashrabiya, junior students created wood panels inspired

by Islamic screens used in architecture, generating their patterns by using code. In the Wajha project, students contributed to community engagement by working with local shop owners on dynamic brand identities. The collaborative museum installation was curated by Graphic Design faculty members Levi Hammett, Leland Hill, Denielle Emans and Basma Hamdy.

Famous artists speak at VCUarts Qatar VCUarts Qatar, in collaboration with QM, hosted lunchtime lectures that were open to the public. In 2016, one of Europe’s most influential painters, Luc Tuymans, was in conversation with QM curator Philippe Pirotte. The presentation coincided with the exhibition of Luc Tuymans’ works at QM Gallery Al Riwaq.

In 2016, Jeff Koons, widely regarded as one of the most influential, popular and controversial artists of the postwar era, spoke to a full house at the University. Other notable artists who have spoken at VCUarts Qatar include performance artist Marina Abramović (2013), renowned writer, critic and curator Francesco Bonami (2013), contemporary Minimalist artist Richard Serra (2014) and Dr. Guido Gryseels, director-general of the Royal Museum for Central Africa in Belgium (2014).

In 2016, Director of Art History Dina Bangdel, Ph.D., led a panel discussion with internationally acclaimed New York–based Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang and three Chinese artists about the Al-Riwaq exhibition “What About the Art? Contemporary Art from China.”

Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa served as the chief guest at the event, held at MIA. The Art History program also organized lectures and workshops at VCUarts Qatar by three Chinese artists showcased in the “What About the Art?” exhibition. Students also had guided tours of the exhibition by the artists and curator.

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Shortly after, VCUarts Qatar launched the third edition of “Domestic Affairs,” a travelling exhibition that explores the house as an interface to our social, economic and political lives. Initiated

by Bureau Europa and curated by Giovanni Innella and Agata Jaworska, the Doha edition was held in partnership with the Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence program. “Domestic Affairs” was previously exhibited in Cologne, Germany, and Shenzhen, China.

The local component of the exhibition featured works by VCUarts Qatar students from the Art Foundation and M.F.A. in Design programs and was curated by Simone Muscolino, director of the Art Foundation program at VCUarts Qatar and alumna and then Fire Station artist-in-residence Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13) with support from M.F.A. in Design and Art Foundation professors Ryan Browning, Marco Bruno, Rachel Cohn, Nathan Davis, Alberto Iacovoni, Jesse Payne and Thomas Modeen. The exhibition was on display at the Garage Gallery at Doha Fire Station in 2016.

Designing for Qatar Museums The Department of Interior Design was approached by QM in 2016 to develop a schematic proposal for the conversion of the existing Belhambar Restaurant into a Library Café—a tourist destination for local residents and visitors to Qatar. The QM program called for a hospitality model that borrows from Barnes & Noble book stores in the U.S., the pavilion Dubai and Minoa Café in Turkey. The senior students’ design outcomes were exhibited at VCUarts Qatar and reviewed by Maha Al Hajri, QM director of Engineering, for prospective thematic adoption.

Stella Colaleo, head of Creative Design with In-Q Enterprises, a subsidiary of QM, along with her team, selected three student projects to develop into products to be sold in museum gift shops. The selected students refined design specifications to coordinate production with QM. This project was embedded within the “Materials and Methods” class taught by Yasmeen Suleiman (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’16), Materials Library curator. The selected students were Jawad Jaffari (B.F.A. ‘15), Rabeya Khatoon (B.F.A. ’17) and Majdulin Nasrallah (B.F.A. ’17).

Collaborations with external stakeholders In addition to internal efforts to develop contextually relevant curricula, the faculty at VCUarts Qatar is committed to developing community collaborations to foster real-life projects and community-relevant skills and solutions. Students are acclimated to the contemporary professional practice of design, and become cognizant of their impact on society outside the walls of the University. Students also have direct connections to organizations for future internships and positions. Some of these collaborations are detailed below.

Collaborating with local and regional organizations The Fashion Design Department collaborated with Alfardan Group for their Marsa Malaz Kempinski hotel on the Pearl Qatar in fall 2014. The senior fashion students designed a wardrobe for the “Lady in Red,” which was the new concept for the corporation at large.

OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP // Rabeya Khatoon work (B.F.A. ’17), developed into a retail product for Qatar Museums, 2018. // World-renowned American sculptor Richard Serra, in association with QM, 2014. // Acclaimed New York-based performance artist Marina Abramović, in association with QM, 2013.

Photograph: Sarah Lauck // Renowned American artist Jeff Koons, in association with QM, spring 2016.

RIGHT TOP TO BOTTOM // WonderBox projects, Junior Graphic Design students, Tasmeem in the Classroom, Souq Waqif, 2014.

Source: Denielle Emans and Basma Hamdy // Light Me Up Doha, a light festival planned for Katara, Graphic Design student project, 2018.

Source: Denielle Emans // Student work, Arabic typeface design for the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy brand identity project, 2016.

In an effort to introduce students to new methods with designers from across the region, a partnership was formed in fall 2014 between Graphic Design students and the Public Arts Organization, Mahatat, Cairo, Egypt. As part of the collaboration, a project titled “The 3ajeeb! WonderBox: Interactive Storytelling for Cultural Preservation in Qatar,” was created. Administrated by associate professors Basma Hamdy and Denielle Emans, the project enabled students to develop stories that were specific to Qatar and the region. The students then produced portable boxes of wonder based on the stories. The Wonder-boxes were exhibited and performed in public spaces to enable local communities to interact with them. Some of the boxes were also exhibited in the Tasmeem in the Classroom exhibition and publication. The project resulted in multiple conference presentations and the award of a Faculty Research Grant.

Two designers, Noelia Escriva and Claudia Costa, from the Doha lighting design firm Vibrant, approached VCUarts Qatar in 2017 to involve students and faculty in designing light installations. The installation was shown at Doha’s first light festival, which was held in 2018. To develop the designs, Interim Chair of Graphic Design Peter Martin held a department-wide design charrette in 2018. The department now has several projects by students and faculty in development for the festival.

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Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy collaborations In collaboration with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) (the 2022 FIFA World Cup QatarTM organizing committee), Graphic Design students from the spring 2016 elective course “Arabic Type Design,” taught by Basma Hamdy, developed a number of proposed Arabic typefaces for SC’s brand identity.

The branding initiative was led by sports branding expert Theodora Mantzaris.

VCUarts Qatar also collaborated with the SC and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education to develop workshops aimed at human legacy and capacity building within the local communities surrounding the World Cup stadia. High school students of the area engaged in art-related workshops at the University, reflecting on the local community, its history and heritage. Learning objectives of the workshop included developing a sense of ownership and responsibility for their communities and the World Cup experience. Seven workshops took place in April and May 2016, and six workshops in the fall semester. Classes were taught by VCUarts Qatar professors and alumni.

By spring 2014, the SC had selected designs by six sophomore Graphic Design students to be rolled into its brand guidelines.

The students designed iconic pictograms of Qatari landmarks and culture, and Arabic calligraphy monograms representing stadia precincts.

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Examining cultures and making In fall 2016, the Swedish Embassy in Doha and the Department of Interior Design collaborated on a project to design a house of culture attached to the embassy building in Lusail, aiming to promote Sweden’s economic interests and the image of Sweden abroad. Student work was exhibited in a show called “House of Sweden” held in conjunction with Swedish national day celebrations at the St. Regis Doha in April. This well-attended event drew over 1,500 visitors.

VCUarts Qatar partnered again with “Shop Qatar” in 2018 and was featured in the center court of Festival City Mall.

VCUarts Qatar offered items for sale and held an exhibition of work made by Fashion Design faculty, alumni and students.

Assistant Professor Donald Earley and Associate Professor Ali Khan conducted live fashion illustration demonstrations, and staff, faculty and students participated in a variety of tutorials and demonstrations to inform mall-goers of the value and specific skillsets required in the fashion industry.

The Interior Design department collaborated with the Doha Film Institute (DFI) in spring 2017 to bridge the gap between industry and academia by offering a film design studio with the two-fold objective of supporting the budding Qatari film industry and meeting the CIDA standards. The course contained elements of theory and analysis as well as real-life experience where the students worked to execute projects with professionals from the film industry. The course outcome helped students gain deeper understanding of interior design concepts through the lens of a camera, develop a portfolio to pursue careers within filmmaking and gain process-based hands-on learning experience from ideation to full execution. After the class, four students were given jobs with DFI productions.

In 2017, Director of Art History Dina Bangdel, Ph.D., led a community art workshop entitled “Built/Unbuilt: City/Home” with UCL Qatar and the Non-resident Nepali Association of Qatar. Associate Professor Denielle Emans, along with Rabeya Khatoon (B.F.A. ’17) and Alisha Saiyed (B.F.A. ’17), participated in the last session where, through a series of creative activities, they explored the transcultural experiences of Nepalis living in Doha within the theme of the “City.” Artistic expression/entanglements served as a catalyst to create communities and encouraged the multiple voices of the lived space to emerge. The project helped to articulate the value of the arts and to contextualize learning and research to the needs of Qatar.

Another studio project by the Junior Studio II spring semester class in 2017 involved a collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC). The students were tasked with designing a “Maker Space” to provide facilities and support for young entrepreneurs and promote the concept of technology-driven “making” to school-age visitors. The MoTC had issued a tender on the design and development of the “Maker Space” and had asked that three winning students form an expert panel to help develop the design. This project paved the way for students to work on real-life problems including analysis of site conditions, interaction with the client prior to the initiation of the project and getting a real client’s project presentation feedback.

VCUarts Qatar partnered with Qatar Tourism Authority to contribute toward the establishment of the Qatar shopping festival, “Shop Qatar,” in 2017. The University was represented at pop-up shops in The Gate Mall and The Mall of Qatar. The Interior Design pop-up shops featured work from the junior and senior studios and final outcomes of the capstone senior course. The Department of Fashion Design also had student work at booths in Ezdan and Lagoona Malls, while the Office of Admissions exhibited at Landmark Mall.

Solutions for refugee camp housing A multi-year project spearheaded by Assistant Professor Maja Kinnemark involved students in designing solutions for refugee camp housing to enable refugees to live with more privacy and dignity. Kinnemark took students on several trips to explore shelter design solutions, starting in 2016 with a trip to Sweden to meet the designers of Better Shelter, an award-winning refugee housing solution. Students were then taken to a refugee camp in Greece where design professionals, including those from Better Shelter, came together to problem-solve on site at the camp. This intervention was sponsored by the humanitarian nonprofit LATRA. Kinnemark used the findings as a prompt to have her students design 3D-printable items such as hooks that extend the use of already available materials to make shelters more versatile and comfortable.

In 2018, VCUarts Qatar held a collaboratively curated exhibition of these objects at its Gallery titled, “Reporting from the Field.”

The exhibition was co-curated by Aris Papadopoulos from LATRA and Kinnemark, and was designed and executed by Interior Design students and alumni. All pieces in the show were 3D-printed by the students in the Digital Fabrication Lab at VCUarts Qatar.

Meriem Aiouna (B.F.A. ‘15) used the CNC mill to produce a large 3D model of the island of Lesbos, Majdulin Nasrallah (B.F.A. ’17) and Sultana Jesmine (B.F.A. ’13, M.F.A. ’17) designed an interactive installation in which 200 umbilical cord clips were fabricated on site. The clips are powerful examples of items that can save lives at a camp, and for which the 3D printer is a perfect production method.

OPPOSITE // Assistant Professor Maja Kinnemark, Fab Lab, 2017.

ABOVE L TO R // Visiting Fanoon artists Janelle (right) and Lisa Iglesias, Painting + Printmaking studio, 2017. Photograph: Zachary Stensen // Alia Khairat work (M.F.A. ’13), “Shared Glass” exhibition, Katara Art Center, 2011. Source: M.F.A. in Design Department

Working with local and global artists Fanoon: Center for Printmedia Research, the first printmaking publishing program in the Middle East, collaborates with local, regional and international artists in the publishing of editions of prints and the realization of artistic research projects that question and explore the role of print in contemporary culture. In the fall and spring of 2016, Fanoon worked with artist duo Seripop and Janelle and Lisa Iglesias, who visited VCUarts Qatar for several weeks and demonstrated their artistic process to students while engaging them in production. The artists also greatly benefited from the University’s advanced equipment. Seripop utilized the CNC router and the vacuum former to do fabric printing with the help of students, producing a series of sculptural props. These formed the basis of a number of photographic works that were shot on location in the desert outside Doha in collaboration with VCUarts Qatar students.

Janelle and Lisa Iglesias visited in 2017, producing over 60 prints that utilized screen-printing, digital fabric printing and risographic printing. As with all artists that visit Fanoon, some of their work was also retained in the Center’s archive, and the students also had a hand in helping the artists in their production line.

Similarly, the M.F.A. in Design Department has actively collaborated with local, regional and global partners since its foundation. In 2011, the department held a traveling workshop with Fabrica—a cutting-edge design and research center in Venice, Italy. “Shared Glass” saw the creation of a collection of “hybrid” objects: pieces that mix and match Middle Eastern and Western influences, shapes and functions. Traditional forms were employed alongside modern design language, and a collection of glass pieces was prototyped by master glass blowers with students’ participation. The results of this collaborative workshop were publicly exhibited at Katara Art Center.

The Painting + Printmaking Department has been collaborating with external stakeholders since the launch of the program. They first collaborated with 11 Qatari artists for the National Day exhibition in a partnership with the Cultural Development Center in 2010, and they have worked with other galleries and museums in Qatar since.

Not only have these collaborations with external partners provided students with real-world experience and the development of professional networks that follow but also they have enabled the students to begin to make an impact on the development of Qatar’s visual landscape.

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Migrant housing project In 2007, the full potential of the Center was revealed when a design charrette at the 2007 Tasmeem Doha conference resulted in a proposal to adapt shipping containers into portable housing for migrant workers. The concept was based on a business model that demonstrated cost effectiveness through reduced operating costs and was intended to meet and surpass international standards for migrant workers’ living conditions. The Center took this idea, attracted USD 1.4 million of funding through Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), and developed it into a fully realized prototype. In the meantime, QSTP’s Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program (TIEP) arm developed the business model that would support its dissemination.

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Miriam Greiss (B.F.A. ‘10), Samreen Zahra (B.F.A. ’09, M.F.A. ′15) and Haya Daher (B.F.A. ′07) worked on the project, along with Imad Fadel (M.F.A. ’14), Materials Library Curator Richard Lombard and Woodshop Manager Ben Jurgensen. Daher recalls that although she played a relatively small role in the project, designing a social gathering place for the workers, “I was really happy. I felt like the work had real value and could really improve someone’s life; that to me is the purpose of design.”

Center for shelter and community development As an outgrowth of the Migrant Worker Housing project, CRID was able to get Exceptional Project funding from Qatar National Research Fund in 2010 to scale up the project. The funding, obtained in collaboration with QF, QSTP, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency and other implementation partners, created a project called “Center for Shelter and Community Development.”

Its purpose was to research, design and implement permanent, holistic solutions (or transitional solutions with permanent attributes) for post-conflict or disaster reconstruction and urban redevelopment. Beyond providing shelter, the aim was to transform shelters into homes, homes into communities and communities into sustainable developments, thereby improving the lives of disadvantaged people around the world.

One of the outcomes of this funding was a three-day workshop in 2010 to investigate how to improve living conditions in Gaza and the West Bank. The workshop drew upon the diverse expertise of architects, planners, engineers and policy-makers.

“The project highlights how designers are addressing some of the world’s most pressing needs through innovation and collaboration,” said Roman Turczyn, then director of CRID. Bowman Heiden, innovation director at QSTP commented, “Together with relief agencies from around the world, we are looking to leverage the knowledge and passion of experts at Qatar Foundation in support of technology and community development for the people of Gaza.

This is a great example of inter-organizational collaboration, where the unique capabilities whom Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser has gathered at Qatar Foundation are brought together to solve critical social development challenges in the region.”

—Haya Daher (B.F.A. ‘07)

Better housing for all The VCUarts Qatar Center for Research in Design (CRID) was established in 2004 to offer professional development opportunities for graduates under Founding Director John Geldart. The Center quickly expanded to promote design leadership in the community through funded design opportunities. One of their first projects in 2006 was the redesign of military uniforms for the Qatar Armed Forces. The collaborative project with designers from all over the world resulted in the design of every part of the uniform from the clothes to the insignia to the boots.

In its first stage, funded under the title “Proof of Concept: A Portable Architecture for Qatar,” CRID developed schematics and design drawings for the housing concept. The project evolved from its initial mandate of evaluating the feasibility of converting shipping containers for migrant worker housing into an enhanced scope of work that demonstrated the value of a holistic design approach. A distinctively different and innovative design concept emerged in the Proof of Concept. The key component of the new concept was a sustainable social model for communal living. In 2011, construction of the prototype was completed in the neighborhood of Education City’s Community Housing, followed by a year of energy monitoring.

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VCUarts Qatar has a long history of collaborating with local, national and international organizations on successful research and design projects across each of its programs. Projects use students, graduate alumni and faculty skills in research-led art, design and scholarly projects to ensure a tangible outcome.

From fashion design solutions and the use of aerogels to preserving Qatar’s stories and providing housing solutions to migrant workers and refugees, VCUarts Qatar plays an important role in preserving the past and creating a better future.

I was really happy. I felt like the work had real value and could really improve someone’s life; that to me is the purpose of design.

Making an Impact—Research in Context

OPPOSITE // Accommodation, Migrant Worker Housing project, 2012.

RIGHT // “Lines in the Sand” exhibition, VCUarts Qatar Gallery, 2014.

Photograph: Sarah Lauck

Portable housing project outcomes The concept of the portable housing and community was purchased by CORE Projects and Supply WLL, which developed the supply chain logistics for building the projects, while CRID continued refining the original design and material specifications to maximize the systems’ life cycle and cost effectiveness.

The result was a “portable” implementation strategy able to respond to the rapidly changing conditions in Qatar. The modular design expedited the speed of construction through prefabricated components such as “Plug and Play” mechanical and electrical systems, demountable and relocatable building components and multiple manufacturers. The site infrastructure was supported by a self-contained sewage treatment plant, recycled water systems and portable landscaping concepts.

In 2013, partly through the work of CRID, Qatar Foundation introduced the “QF Mandatory Standards of Migrant Workers’ Welfare for Contractors and Sub-Contractors” to ensure the application of fair employment principles for all migrant workers engaged in construction and other service activities. These standards are now included in the tender documents for all QF contracts.

Leading institutions such as Ashghal, Msheireb Properties, Qatar Rail and others have also adopted these standards.

CRID went on to complete a number of important projects, some of which are detailed below. Today collaborative research continues under the auspices of the faculty members.

Preserving History “Preservation of Cultural Heritage in Qatar Using Nanotechnology” In 2013, student research resulted in the development of an innovative new method of preserving paper through the use of nanotechnology. Under the guidance of Associate Professor Khaled Saoud, Ph.D., and Research Associate Shaukat Saeed, Imen Ibala (B.F.A. ’13), Dana El Ladki (B.F.A. ’15), and Omar Ezzeldeen (B.F.A. ’15) successfully synthesized nanomaterials capable of extending the lifespan of the country’s irreplaceable but fragile documents. Recognizing that the deterioration of cultural heritage objects must be addressed to prevent the loss of history, and that many books from the mid-19th century were fast approaching a point where acidity will make them too delicate to handle, the team focused on finding a treatment, through the application of nanoscience, to halt the aging process. The outcome was that “dying” books could now be given as many as 1,000 more years of life. The project, “Preservation of Cultural Heritage in Qatar Using Nanotechnology,” was supported by an Undergraduate Research Experience Program (UREP) grant from Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF).

Visualizing Qatar’s past VCUarts Qatar has been at the center of several significant attempts to catalog Qatar’s history, such as the 2010 National Priorities Research Program (NPRP)-funded collaboration between VCUarts Qatar, Qatar University, and Exeter University “Qatar Unified Imaging Project” and the 2011 NPRP grant “Visualizing Qatar’s Past,” as well as the QF and Qatar National Library collaboration “Digital History Portal.”

In 2011, Associate Professor Diane Derr and her Co-Lead Project Investigator Andrew Petersen, Ph.D., from the University of Wales Trinity St. David, along with QM began collaboratively working on a NPRP-funded project “Visualizing Qatar’s Past.” The principal aim of this project was to build up a visual record of Qatar’s archaeological and heritage sites and to develop new methods of recording and analysis based on the use of drone photography.

The visual recording of Qatar’s heritage helped to provide a detailed and publicly accessible printed and digital record, with multimedia applications. The use of photographic and video recording of Qatar’s heritage from the air allowed for both plan-like presentations of a site and editing of video fly-through presentations, enabling a better visualization of a physical site.

The use of this method of recording also enabled the visualization of areas of towns, buildings and landscapes that are not easily accessible. The act of recording the excavation of archaeological sites allowed for preservation of the processes involved in the exploration and development of understanding Qatar’s built heritage, as well as providing an educational tool to others who are in the processes of discovering Qatar’s past, in order to create a comprehensive archive for current and future generations.

The outcomes of the use of this technology to visualize the Al Ruwayda archeological site were exhibited in “Lines in the Sand.”

The exhibition included examples of work on the site by faculty members Law Alsobrook and Leslie Forehand, staff member Mirza Baig, Andrew Petersen (University of Wales Trinity St. David) and students Al Hussein Wanas (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’13) and Zöe Donald.

Innovative digital humanities history projects Qatar Foundation has been working with Qatar National Library on developing a digital humanities portal called “Qatar Dynamic History Portal,” which VCUarts Qatar played a large role in developing under the management of Interim Chair of Graphic Design Peter Martin and Director of Art History Dina Bangdel, Ph.D., (discussed in more detail in the Power in Collaboration chapter).

In 2015, in a similar, more-focused project, VCUarts Qatar’s Library re-imagined the role it can play in providing information about the history of Islamic art. With the goal of creating a dynamic and interactive discovery tool, the Library began utilizing the open access platform, Omeka, as well as the geo-temporal add-on tool, Neatline.

The resulting tool, “Art among the Empires of the Islamic World,” maps the Islamic art world with interactive timelines, primary sources, and analysis of historical figures, events and significant works of art. Head of Research and Library Technology Michael Wirtz, who helped spearhead the project, was asked to present about it at the annual Art Libraries Society of North America and at the Visual Resources Association meeting in 2016.

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Preserving calligraphic history Associate Professor Basma Hamdy’s book Khatt: Egypt’s Calligraphic Landscape (Saqi Books) delves into the public expressions of calligraphic script (khatt) ranging from casual scrawls and scribbles to elaborately painted, colorful murals found in Egypt’s cities. Hamdy’s extensive visual documentation of these records of human expressions of hope, fears, dreams and anxieties was made possible in part by a faculty subvention grant received in 2017. Co-edited with Noha Zayed, this timely volume records the traditional craftsmanship of hand-painted calligraphy, in decline because of the digitization of the Arabic script. In 2016, examples from the book were shown at Dubai Design Week as “Khatt: a Typographic Journey through Egypt.”

Khatt is Hamdy’s second book. Her first book project Walls of Freedom: Street Art of the Egyptian Revolution (From Here to Fame) garnered praise and was shown at New Art Exchange in Nottingham, U.K. In 2017, Hamdy’s essay “The Arabic Language as Creative Resistance” appeared in the book Street Art of Resistance, edited

by Sarah Awad and Brady Wagoner (Palgrave Macmillan). Her essay, “Scarabs, Buraqs and Angels,” from her book was used as part of the reading requirement for the course “The Politics of Modern Arab Art” taught by Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi at New York University in spring 2017. Hamdy’s article, “Reflections on a Revolution,” was published in issue three of the IWA—Islamic World of Art magazine. Photographs and excerpts from Walls of Freedom were also part of the “gallery” section of the issue.

Hamdy received a Recognition of Excellence in Research and Scholarship from the Design Incubation Communication Design Educator Awards in 2016, and the VCUarts Qatar Faculty Research Award in 2018 for her distinguished research accomplishments.

Culturally relevant literature and film Student-illustrated Arab folktales book With the goal of increasing awareness of Qatari history, tradition and culture and improving young adult literacy through developing culturally relevant, text-based graphic literature, students and faculty members created a student-illustrated collection of local folktales.

Under the leadership of Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Patty Paine, VCUarts Qatar students received an undergraduate research grant called “Orality to Image: Traditional Qatari Narratives and Visual Media” from the Qatar National Research Fund in 2011. Other collaborators on the project included assistant professors Jesse Ulmer, Ph.D. and Donald Earley, Associate Professor Michael Hersrud from VCUarts Qatar and Sara Al-Mohannadi from Qatar University.

The students collected oral folk tales and transcribed them in Arabic. The Arabic text was then given to Qatar University students who translated it into English. VCUarts Qatar students then illustrated the folk tales in preparation for publication. The resulting book, The Donkey Lady and Other Tales from the Arabian Gulf, was published by Berkshire Academic Press in 2013 and came in third out of 88 projects nominated for Qatar National Research Fund’s 5th Research Competition.

Students who worked on this project included Al Hussein Wanas (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’13), Felicity Ulmer (B.F.A. ’14), Fatma Al Remaihi (B.F.A. ’10), Abdulla Al-Kuwari (B.F.A. ’14), Mariam Al-Sarraj (B.F.A. ’11), Wafaa Al Saffar (B.F.A. ’11), Sara Almulla (B.F.A. ’11), Reem Al Hajeri (B.F.A. ’11), Noora Al Sulaiti (B.F.A. ’14), Joanne Bermejo, Ghada Al Suwaidi (B.F.A. ’15), Fatma Maki (B.F.A. ’17), Zoë Donald, Nada Hammada (B.F.A. ’13), Leila Natsheh (B.F.A. ’13), Yasmen Al-Abdulla (B.F.A. ’14), Alanood A. Al-Thani (B.F.A. ’13), Amber Ericson, Rana Jubara (B.F.A. ’13), Khadija Safri (B.F.A. ’11), Noora Al-Khulaifi (B.F.A. ’12), Sahar Mari (B.F.A. ’10), Ameera Makki (B.F.A. ’11), Maryam Al-Khalifa (B.F.A. ’12), Abdulla Al Gosaibi (B.F.A. ’11), Nawar Al Mutlaq (B.F.A. ’11), Mashaer Alyaarabi (B.F.A. ’11) and Ahood Al-Dafa (B.F.A. ’12).

Anthology of poetry from the Arabian Gulf Another important contribution that VCUarts Qatar made to culturally relevant literature for the region was the student-collected poetry anthology called Gathering the Tide: An Anthology of Contemporary Arabian Gulf Poetry (Ithaca Press). Supported in part by a 2011 UREP grant, the work presents a diverse and exciting collection of poems by poets from Qatar and the region.

OPPOSITE TOP TO BOTTOM // Khatt: A Typographic Journey through Egypt, a book by Associate Professor Basma Hamdy, 2018. // Associate Professor Basma Hamdy, 2018.

ABOVE L TO R // Book launch, Gathering the Tide: An Anthology of Contemporary Arabian Gulf Poetry, 2012. // Assistant Professor Matthias Determann, 2018.

Source: Matthias Determann // Student drawings for The Donkey Lady publication project, 2010.

The anthology was conceived in response to the lack of translated poetry collections in the Gulf. Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Patty Paine explained that she and her creative writing students found themselves at a loss for regional texts to study and wondered why this was so. Paine found herself, along with co-editors and students, hard at work collecting poems from writers from the region.

The book launch highlighted the importance of the work in expanding the representation of the region and giving voice to the little-known emotional geography of the Arabian Gulf countries and their people. Taking place in 2012 over three days, the launch covered two readings and three panel discussions. As evidenced by the performances and discussions the launch engendered, the text provides a window into the hearts and minds of writers who are at once both representative of their nations and individuals with unique voices and styles.

Patty Paine, Samia Touati Dietz and Jeff Lodge edited Gathering the Tide, while VCUarts Qatar Graphic Design students Nawar Al-Mutlaq (B.F.A. ’11), Aisha Al-Naama (B.F.A. ’15), Al Hussein Wanas (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’13) and Ameera Makki (B.F.A. ’11) worked on the cover design.

History books on Arab World earn critical acclaim Assistant Professor Jörg Matthias Determann is the author of three books on Arab history. His first book, Historiography in Saudi Arabia: Globalization and the State in the Middle East (I.B. Tauris) won critical acclaim. Umm Al-Qura University in Mecca put the book at the top of its list of “key references” on the kingdom in 2016.

His next book, Researching Biology and Evolution in the Gulf States: Networks of Science in the Middle East (I.B. Tauris) was reviewed by Alan Weber of Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, who asserted that the book “represents a ground-breaking study with a wealth of accurate and valuable detail—a topic that has not been thoroughly investigated in modern historiography. The monograph will be useful not only to historians and sociologists of science, but also to scholars in the fields of education, Gulf Studies, and Islamic Studies.”

Determann’s third book, published in 2018 was titled Space Science and the Arab World: Astronauts, Observatories and Nationalism in the Middle East (I.B. Taurus). James Clay Moltz of the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, endorsed the book along with Daniel Stolz of Northwestern University, and it immediately caught media attention. Determann served as an advisor and interviewee for a CNN show on Arab space exploration within the series Inside the Middle East in 2018. He was also invited to contribute to a radio documentary on Islam and space exploration within the program America Abroad, and was interviewed by Al Jazeera for a documentary in September 2018. Christopher Gainor, president of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada wrote: “This book provides a fresh perspective on life in this part of the world and on the history of space exploration.”

L TO R // “water with water”—an experimental publishing project, Associate Professor Nathan Davis and Arcadian Studio, 2017. Photograph: Nathan Davis // Printing of the undergraduate research project 1001 Fantasy Pop Nights, Associate Professor Nathan Davis, 2018. Photograph: Nathan Davis

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Faculty member’s culturally relevant publishing project receives international attention Associate Professor Nathan Davis launched a new experimental publishing project called “water with water” (‫فسر الماء بالماء‬ ّ ) at the Art Basel Fair in Switzerland in 2017. Davis, with student Sarah Elawad, exhibited in the “I Never Read” Artist Book section. The publishing project speculates in visual form on the intersection of Gulf culture and contemporary art and design. Works include a publication from the M.F.A. in Design visual communications course, a collaboration with Qatari artist Fatma Al Remaihi (B.F.A. ’10) and original works by Davis that were produced as part of a Faculty Exploratory Grant.

Davis was also invited to exhibit “water with water” and give a talk at the Artist Book section of the China Art Book Fair at the Mingshen 21st Century Art Museum in Shanghai. “water with water” was one of a handful of invited international participants and the only representative from the Middle East. Their original and visually rich work gained attention on social media and at the event, including interviews with local media and Artforum International Magazine. In 2018, Davis and Elawad exhibited their work at the New York Art Book Fair.

Faculty brings stories from the Gulf to film Faculty member research around art and design often advances local voices and stories. Assistant Professor Maysaa Al-Mumin’s film work explores a variety of stories relevant to the Gulf region.

Al-Mumin’s film Muneera (made for the Kuwait Pavilion at the Venice Biennale Architecture Exhibition 2014) was shown at the 2017 Ajyal Youth Film Festival in Qatar. She participated in a writing workshop in Chicago developing an episode outline for a TV series she co-authored titled Salon Shoo Shoo, a story of a twenty-something Kuwaiti woman living in Dubai who is trying to navigate social expectations while fulfilling her own needs.

The film was written using the Sobel machine at the Abu Dhabi– based film production company, Image Nation. Al-Mumin was also selected to participate in a Doha Film Institute Series Lab in collaboration with US-based Independent Film Project. The series follows the adventures of two women, Dunai and Badra, a bandit and a nomadic engineer, who navigate through a world of myth and fantasy to find a place they can call home.

Al-Mumin also acts in a variety of productions, including Qatar’s first science fiction TV series by Qatari filmmaker Ahmed Al Baker, which was given its premier at “Comic-Con 2017” in San Diego, California. Al-Mumin can also be seen in films directed by Waheed Khan, Amal Al Muftah, Aljowhara Al Thani and Maha Essid.

Photography works explore personal narratives Associate Professor George Awde took part in the group exhibition “I Spy with My Little Eye” in 2015, which showcases a new generation of artists from Beirut focusing on personal narrative and new artistic forms. The show, which originally took place at the Mosaic Rooms in London as part of the “Shubbak” festival—a window on contemporary Arab culture—and traveled to Casa Árabe in both Madrid and Cordoba. Awde received international press in publications such as Art Asia Pacific, Contract Magazine, the Financial Times, Middle East Monitor, The National, Reorient, Gulf News and Nafas.

Creating a more vibrant city Art Souq—a home for Qatar’s artists In pursuit of developing a vision for an artists’ community in Qatar, VCUarts Qatar was granted funding by NPRP to research and develop a design for a multi-artist studio complex, the Art Souq, in Doha. The project was a collaboration that spanned three departments and disciplines at the University with co-leads Rhys Himsworth, director of Painting + Printmaking, Byrad Yyelland, Ed.D., director of Liberal Arts & Sciences, and Associate Professor, Johan Granberg, Ph.D., as well as Rana Rwaished (B.F.A. ‘11).

The project was also funded through additional support from private consultants.

The project presented the culmination of a vast international study of artist communities covering more than 150 interviews and focus groups with approximately 100 site visits in 22 locations across 13 countries including China, Japan, Italy, Germany, Brazil, Columbia, the U.S. and Canada, as well as visits to the U.A.E, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Qatar. The objective was to utilize what was learned in these communities to inform development of an innovative and culturally sensitive studio environment for the multiplicity of artists who come to Qatar from around the world.

In addition to the research, a 10-year business plan was developed through consultation with outside parties including business plan experts and quantity surveyors, as well as experts within VCUarts Qatar.

Borrowed City Exploring how citizens negotiate use of space in a city was the subject of the research project “Borrowed City,” which was officially invited to be part of the Korean Pavilion at Fundamentals, the 2014 Venice Architecture Biennale directed by Reem Koolhaas. Associate Professor Marco Bruno developed the project over four years with Simone Carena and Minji Kim in South Korea.

Their book Borrowed City (Damdi) received the DAM (Deutsches Architekturmuseum) Award for the 2013 Best Architecture Book.

Borrowed City illustrates the main features of local space borrowing, ranging from individual extravaganzas to collective behaviors.

Each example is described through images and exploded drawings, with the purpose of isolating factors involved in borrowing and how they can be implemented.

For the Venice exhibition, associate professors Marco Bruno and Simone Muscolino developed an interactive installation called “Borrowed City Flip” that used automated flipbooks to animate the time-based informal space occupations described in the research.

This installation took advantage of Muscolino’s latest research in time-based media, which focuses on understanding new forms of video-making, experimenting with new technologies and trying to underline a sort of continuity in the history of moving images.

L TO R // Motojari, a Borrowed City project

by Associate Professor Marco Bruno.

Source: Marco Bruno // Rendering of the Art Souq, research project by Associate Professor Rhys Himsworth, Interim Director of Liberal Arts & Sciences, Byrad Yyelland, Ph.D., Associate Professor Johan Granberg, Ph.D. and Rana Rwaished (B.F.A. ‘11).

Source: Rhys Himsworth // Film still of Assistant Professor Maysaa Al-Mumin, Calling of the Congress, 2017. Source: Maysaa Al-Mumin

“Her Majlis” female empowerment research Assistant Professor Sadia Mir and Adjunct Tanya Kane collaborated with Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) on a UREP that culminated in publication and an HBKU student gallery exhibition “Her Majlis.” The undergraduate students, most of whom were Qatari women, along with the faculty, were interested in exploring the drivers and obstacles to Qatari women’s engagement and empowerment. The work was honored with several awards, including First Place in the 2014 Qatar Foundation’s “Research Excellence Award,” Best Paper Award at the 2015 “Annual Conference on Family Research and Policy,” and NU-Q’s Unity Award for interdisciplinary collaboration and achievement.

Improving health outcomes “One Second” road safety campaign One of the arms of the Center for Research and Design was an alumni incubator, Young Entrepreneur Series (YES), which served to match alumni to real-world business requests. In 2012, YES was approached by Maersk Oil to develop the branding and motto for a traffic safety campaign to be launched by the Ministry of Interior.

Haneen Al Sharif (B.F.A. ‘12) recalled how the concept cascaded from a one-off leaflet for new mothers as they left Hamad Women’s Hospital to a full-blown brand development project. “When we undertook our preliminary research, we quickly realized that this had the potential to be much larger—that a road safety campaign could, and should, encompass much more. We pitched our ideas to Maersk and they were so impressed they allowed us to develop the program.” The alumni then worked with an advertising agency to further advance the campaign. The final result impressed the Ministry of Interior, and Maersk gifted the “One Second” campaign to the Ministry to use as they saw fit.

Alumni involvement in the project was originally slated to last six weeks, but ended up lasting three months as the scope changed.

Hadeer Omar (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’16) joined the team in its later stages.

“I can remember feeling the buzz surrounding the project,” she says. “Just standing in the kitchen at the agency employed to work alongside us, listening to their comments, there was a definite feeling that we were on to something big.” Al Sharif and Omar were joined by Lama Abu Dheays (B.F.A. ‘03) and Rana Rwaished (B.F.A. ‘11).

“One Second” was officially launched on May 28, 2013 to critical acclaim. The tagline “One Second—The Second That Could Change Your Life” formed the basis of an ongoing strategy covering driver attitudes, passenger safety, vehicle maintenance and more. The following year, Maersk Oil renewed their support, giving the YES team USD 250,000 to allow an additional alumni, Najla Al-Khalifa (B.F.A. ‘14), to join the team and develop a campaign on driver education and expand their research.

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“Art and Medicine” interdisciplinary course In 2014, VCUarts Qatar and WCM-Q were awarded a UREP grant by QNRF to develop the first interdisciplinary course in Education City called “Art and Medicine.” The aim was to allow medical students to rethink medical decision-making and patient care and enable art students to incorporate science into their creative practice.

The “Art and Medicine” course grew out of four faculty members’ mutual interest in investigating how art, design and medicine can create synergies that lead students to more informed, reflective, collaborative and interdisciplinary methods and practices.

Principal Investigator Associate Professor Rhys Himsworth and Co-Principal Investigators, Director of Libraries Amy Andres and professors Alan Weber, Ph.D., and Stephen Scott, M.D., of WCM-Q designed the project as a one-semester special topic art seminar.

The seminar took place in 2015, with a final exhibition in 2016 at HBKU Student Center.

During the project, students were challenged to work together on various assignments, including the design of their first exhibition, “Chromosthesia,” an immersive experience that enabled visitors to interact at the intersection of medicine and contemporary art.

Visitors were encouraged to submit their emotional status either through their own Twitter account or on a provided tablet before and after entering the installation. In doing so, they became active participants as each emotion was assigned a corresponding color that would be projected through the exhibition space. Through “Chromosthesia,” students and visitors learned that there is an extraordinary language within the visual world that is often perceived unconsciously.

A learning laboratory that was set up by the researchers provided the art students with new understandings, materials and tools to further develop their artistic practice, and which allowed the medical students to rethink medical decision-making and patient care.

The laboratory consisted of a series of workshops, seminars and lectures that investigated how each discipline solves problems, develops expertise, and utilizes creativity, analysis, synthesis and evaluation to create new knowledge.

The exhibition showcased a collection of works created by six students from each university, utilizing a range of materials, methods and media, from laser-cut works based on medical scans to photographs that examined the landscape as a metaphor for neurological conditions, and kinetic sculptures that question our perception of what is mental and what is physical.

WCM-Q’s student artists were Mu Ji Hwang, Farah Al Sayyed, Faryal Malick, Rebal Turjoman, Eman Mosleh and Yanal Shaheen, and VCUarts Qatar’s student artists were Noor Al-Thani (B.F.A. ’17), Habeeb Buftaim (B.F.A. ′16), Abdul Rahman Anwar (B.F.A. ’16), Mohammad Jawad (B.F.A. ’15), Amelie Beicken (B.F.A. ’15) and Emelina Soares (B.F.A. ’15).

Creating better health outcomes through design Chair and Professor of Interior Design Cherif Amor, Ph.D., studies the effect of interior environments on brain function and health outcomes. His research has been published in the peer-reviewed journals Health Environments Research & Design Journal, Glam Interiors and Design, The International Journal of Design Management and Professional Practice, and The International Journal of Design Education. His research has won much acclaim and in 2017 he won the Environmental Design Research Association’s Certificate of Research Excellence (CORE) award. This award recognizes rigorous, valuable and impactful practice-based research that sparks innovation and promotes best practice in environmental design.

Amor received the award in recognition of his joint work in a funded study on the perception of sky imagery as architecture and environmental illusion using a Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging procedure. The study included researchers from The Sky Factory (research sponsor), Texas Tech University and VCUarts Qatar. In 2015, he was honored by two design organizations, the Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC) and the Forum for Interior Design, Msheireb Enhancement Center (FID/MEC). The QGBC honor was for presenting research findings relative to sustainability principles in academia and for moderating research sessions.

The FID recognition was for dissemination of research and support for the establishment of the Forum for Interior Design.

OPPOSITE // “Art and Medicine” exhibition, HBKU Student Center, 2016.

BELOW // Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ’05, M.F.A. ’13) speaking at Training Art Curators in the 21st Century Symposium, 2018.

Pictured left to right: Jelena Trkulja, Ph.D., QM; Laura Barlow, Mathaf; Shaika Nasir Al-Nassr, Ph.D.; Aisha Al-Sowaidi and Serena Iervolino, Ph.D.

Pedagogy fit for the context Training curators In an effort to benchmark best practices in teaching art history and develop teaching modules for curators in Qatar, VCUarts Qatar was awarded a major grant to build Qatar’s knowledge base on the subject. Begun under the leadership of the Director of Art History Dina Bangdel, Ph.D., and brought to its successful completion by Assistant Professor Radha Dalal, Ph.D., the Qatar National Research Fund NPRP grant, “Museums in the 21st Century” and “Global Art History: Building Knowledge Base through Online Resources in Qatar,” sought to develop learning modules around art history and museum studies. According to Dalal, “Given its rapidly growing museum culture, Qatar’s institutions require professionals with a general knowledge of art, in terms of both historical content and methods, as well as cutting-edge skills in museum practice.”

The learning modules were designed to build upon existing resources in Education City through VCUarts Qatar’s Art History undergraduate program and UCL Qatar’s museum studies graduate program. The project established and strengthened connections between the two universities and Qatar Museums.

Benchmarking during the first year of the project produced rich data emphasizing best practices in curatorial training and practice across the globe. In the second year, a resource website for students, staff and prospective pre-professionals was constructed to include sections on Global Art History, Islamic Art History and Museum Studies. The project’s deliverables included a symposium held in 2018. This event brought together professionals from QM with eminent curators from Australia, Southeast Asia, the U.S. and Europe to engage in challenging and productive dialogues on the future of curatorial education around the globe.

Exploring the definition and practice of interdisciplinary design In 2014, the M.F.A. in Design program hosted a two-day symposium entitled “Exploring the Definition and Practice of Interdisciplinary Design.” The symposium investigated and clarified the paradigms that shape the field of interdisciplinary design. As the conference co-chairs, Associate Professor Thomas Modeen, Ph.D., and Acting Director of M.F.A. in Design Pornprapha Phatanateacha explained, the boundaries between design disciplines have increasingly become more fluid. What was once perceived as solid is quickly dissolving, forming a perpetual cycle of reinvention and revision of how a design is conceived, generated and realized. The establishment of interdisciplinary design programs within institutions of higher education is an acknowledgement and reflection of this development. Themes for the presentations and papers covered all aspect of interdisciplinary design, including definitions, theory, advantages and disadvantages of the approach, curriculum development, practice and methodologies, technology drivers, historical precedents and interdisciplinary entrepreneurship.

Speakers represented centers of interdisciplinary design all over the world and included Hunmin Koh, founder of the first Fabrication Lab in South Korea; Shashank Mehta, professor of Industrial Design at India’s National Institute of Design, and Prae Piromya, a design thinking business consultant in Thailand. Three representatives from China’s Jianjang University, including the Dean of the School of Design, Xiangyang Xin, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Interdisciplinary design at Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, Christopher Kaltenbach and Assistant Professor at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, Nanci Takeyama, Ph.D., also spoke. These international guests presented their research along with professors and students from the M.F.A. in Design program.

Interdisciplinary design pedagogy research receives distinction The Department of Interior Design conducted an innovative pedagogical experiment that combined the traditional hands-on learning of design studios with the theory-based learning of lecture classes. The experiment started with combining two courses at the sophomore level in 2016: Lighting Systems and Computer Graphics.

As part of the course, students participated in a design competition with the company Avantgarde, which was awarded the design of the Qatar Pavillion at the 2017 Astana Expo in Khazakstan. The winning students, Hissa Alhail (B.F.A. ’18) and Sara Mashhadi (B.F.A. ’18), were offered an internship opportunity during the summer of 2017 at Avantgarde’s office in Munich, Germany, as the company prepared its design, which went on to win the best pavilion at the Expo.

In the spring semester, the experiment was further enhanced to combine three classes: a studio class, a materials class and a computer graphics class, into a Meta Studio. This pedagogic effort required the synchronization of learning objectives, the coordination of the course schedule timeline, the addition of guest lecturers and critiques and the collaboration of faculty across the three courses. The positive outcomes of these initiatives led to the further adoption of the pedagogy between “Building Systems and Advanced Computer Graphics,” in a class called Meta Tech.

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The findings from these pedagogical investigations, called “Distancing Design Curricula from a Siloed Education,” led to several research conference presentations by faculty members Haitham El Hammali, Ph.D., Johan Granberg, Ph.D., and Mohammad Suleiman.

During the 2017–2018 Council for Interior Design Accreditation site visit and reaccreditation approval process, the Council identified this interdisciplinary pedagogy as a program strength that set the program apart.

Developing an electronic art learning environment In 2008, VCU and VCUarts Qatar were awarded a three-year NPRP grant to develop an electronic learning and assessment software tool that focuses on interdisciplinary connections (eLASTIC). The grant was co-led by Pamela Taylor, Ph.D., of VCU and John Geldert, director of the Center for Research in Design (CRID) at VCUarts Qatar. Other principal investigators from VCU and Qatar University rounded out the research team. The three-year grant resulted in the development of a computer hypertextual web using the software Storyspace to push students to think in more interconnective ways.

One of the basic premises for eLASTIC is that students’ knowledge evolves and grows as they make connections, and that assessment of this learning should chart that progress as well as contribute to it. The software was tested at high schools in Qatar and resulted in two peer-reviewed articles by lead Principal Investigator Pamela Taylor, one in Art Education in 2014, “Daring to Imagine a Large-scale Approach to Visual Arts Assessment through a Virtual World Environment,” and one in Studies in Art Education in 2014, “eLASTIC: Pulling and Stretching What It Means to Learn, Know and Assess Art and Educational Progress.”

Teaching math through the creative arts Associate Professor Summer Bateiha, Ph.D., conducts pedagogical research on engendering critical consciousness in her students, helping them to become socially conscious, validate their language and culture and understand their history, all through teaching math. Her past research has centered around describing the impact of culture on effective communication between teachers and students, and creating context-relevant math curricula. In 2017, Bateiha partnered with Assistant Professor Sadia Mir on a project called “Teaching Mathematics through Storytelling.” The Faculty Research Grant–funded project resulted in a children’s book, Spring Bloom (HBKU Press), focusing on place-value and exploring storytelling as a pedagogical tool to teach math in a non-traditional way. A book chapter co-authored with Mir, “Teaching Mathematics through Culturally Relevant Storytelling,” was written for Local Dreams, Global Visions: Multi-Disciplinary Perspectives (Cambridge University Press).

BELOW L TO R // Student work, a Bilingual Typeface project, 2014.

Source: Graphic Design Department // Interior Design Department, CIDA exhibition, 2018.

OPPOSITE L TO R // “Fake in Italy,” a research project, Simone Muscolino, director of Art Foundation and Paolo Cardini, associate professor at RISD. Source: Simone Muscolino // Associate Professor Ali Khan’s winning entry, “Soldier of Fortune,” World of WearableArt competition, New Zealand, 2015, created with his design partner Frida Ali. Source: Ali Khan

Exploring commerce, trade and exchange across cultures “Fake in Italy” exhibition explores manufacturing in an age of globalization A collaboration between Simone Muscolino, director of Art Foundation, and Paolo Cardini, associate professor at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), “Fake in Italy” was a project about cultural exchange and objects’ identity. It took the shape of a collection of experimental objects based on the mix between global stereotypes and typical Italian production excellences. Each object refers to specific habits or traditions belonging to different cultures, but is produced in Italy with Italian raw materials and know-how. A video narrative translated the concept, the process and the speculations that surrounded the project into an audiovisual scenario staging the original object, the new form and actions of cultural appropriation. At the conclusion of the research process, supported by a Faculty Research Grant, the project was displayed at “Wanted Design” in New York City in 2016.

Research on printing culture at the intersection of west and east Interim Director of Art History Sean Roberts, Ph.D., conducts research on interactions between Italy and the Islamic lands and the place of prints in the histories of art and technology. During the 2014–2015 academic year, he was awarded the prestigious I Tatti Fellowship at Harvard’s Center for Italian Renaissance Studies in Florence, Italy. The award came in recognition of Roberts’ critically praised book Printing a Mediterranean World, (Harvard University Press), and was described by The Times Literary Supplement as likely to become “a classic on the subject” of Renaissance mapping.

His time at I Tatti allowed him to continue to work on Sabotage!, a book exploring industrial espionage and trade secrecy in the early print industry. The fellowship also gave rise to collaborative research projects, including the discovery, with University of St. Andrews Professor Laura Morretti, of previously unknown portrait prints and drawings by Giorgio Vasari in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. In 2018, the work was published in the journal I Tatti Studies in the Italian Renaissance. Roberts was elected President of the Italian Art Society for the 2017–2019 term.

In a similar vein of research on print media and culture, Assistant Professor Radha Dalal was awarded USD 42,000 from VCU’s Presidential Research Quest Fund (PerQ) for 2017–2018 in support of her project “The Khilafat Movement and Print Media in British India and Ottoman Turkey, 1919–1927.” The project will explore the pan-Islamic Khilafat movement aimed at stopping Britain from abolishing the Ottoman Caliphate through exploration of archival print media.

This award was also partially funded by VCUarts Qatar.

World of WearableArt Award Show wins Associate Professor Ali Khan had several successful entries into the internationally renowned World of WearableArt (WOW) Awards Show, held annually in Wellington, New Zealand. The event challenges designers to take “art off the wall and onto the human form.”

The show is New Zealand’s largest arts show, with over 50,000 attendees from around the world every year.

Three of Khan’s outfits that were presented at the WOW Awards Show made the final cut, each a collaborative effort with his design partner Frida Ali. Their entries “Bling Warrior” (Avant Garde Section) and “Skulls of Bondage” (Bizarre Bra Section) were both entered in the 2014 competition. “Bling Warrior” was the recipient of two awards (winner of the First Time Entrant Award and third prize in the American Express Open Section). Their piece “Soldier of Fortune” was nominated for a prize in the Man Section 2015. The materials used included vinyl, white-and-gold chain detailing, canvas, lurex, football pads and 10,000 Swarovski crystal diamantes.

After the annual shows the garments became part of the permanent collection of the World of WearableArts Museum in Nelson, New Zealand. Khan’s winning “Bling Warrior” design was selected for a special museum retrospective exhibition in 2018.

”

In 2012, fashion students under adjunct faculty Stella Colaleo and Maysaa Al-Mumin revisited the abaya with the directive of creating a versatile garment for everyday wear. The result was an exhibition at Katara Art Center called “Ayaba,” showcasing designs by Colaleo with fashion students Marion Sanguesa (B.F.A. ’12), Elizabeth Yang Soon Ju (B.F.A. ’12, M.F.A. ’17) and Mona Alansari (B.F.A. ’12). Alansari said, “The adaptability of this garment means I am able to wear the Ayaba as an abaya in public to maintain my modesty, and then I may quickly change into an elegant evening garment by adding glamorous accessories after I walk through the doors in private places. I don’t have to consider wearing an additional abaya.”

—Mona Alansari (B.F.A. ‘12)

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A series of Faculty Research grants supported research in Dubai, Boston, Marrakech, Mumbai and Istanbul, and allowed Colquhoun and Holmes-Dallimore to look closely at how these structures varied and shared some common characteristics. These observations, in turn, informed new kiosk design projects undertaken in the retail design studio that started the whole process. They presented their findings at a special exhibition and lecture titled “Retail Without Walls: Kiosk Culture” at Mathaf in 2012.

The annual fashion shows on both campuses provided a venue to exhibit the designs showcasing the results of the cross-campus, cross-cultural collaboration. The shows allowed the students to perform their final major point of inquiry, exploring how consumers on both sides of the globe receive and view the abaya and shayla-inspired garments. The project was covered by over 100 media outlets.

“

In an effort to provide some supporting information for VCUarts Qatar students, Colquhoun and Holmes-Dallimore began to collect their own data about how people design environments that support a simple transaction, which raised questions that had not previously been considered about exactly what makes a kiosk successful. Subsequent research asked the question: “What are the core properties common to impromptu retail opportunities in different cultures and how might they be used to inform contemporary retail kiosk design?”

The abaya in the 21st century The traditional female garment worn by Qataris and other Muslims has been the inspiration for several fashion research projects.

In 2008, a cultural and design exchange project between VCUarts Qatar and its home campus aimed to reinvent the abaya. Junior students in the home campus’s “Give Me Shelter” class with Assistant Professor Kimberly Guthrie, and senior students at VCUarts Qatar with Chair of Fashion Design, Sandra Bell Wilkins were supported by VCUarts Qatar’s CRID’s Design Manager Hawa Stwodah, to develop a collection of 10 abayas.

The adaptability of this garment means I am able to wear the Ayaba as an abaya in public, and then quickly change into an elegant evening garment.

“Retail Without Walls: Kiosk Culture” Retail is a massive sector within the commercial design industry; however despite the plethora of information concerning retail design in general, there is very little public discussion about how designers typically approach small, ad-hoc retail opportunities like a kiosk. For assistant professors Liam Colquhoun and Matthew Holmes-Dallimore, this was an invitation for further exploration. The professors had collaboratively co-taught a retail design studio for eight years, which laid the foundation for their research. Over time they found that having students design a mobile kiosk encouraged them to consider some of the core areas of retail design, such as identity and functionality.

OPPOSITE // “The Retail Without Walls: Kiosk Culture” exhibition, assistant professors Liam Colquhoun and Matthew Holmes-Dallimore, Mathaf Gallery, 2012.

LEFT // Promotional poster, Ayaba project, 2012.

Source: Stella Colaleo

‫تشكيـــل المستقبـل‬ Shaping the Future

4 // 20th-anniversary signage, designed

by Moza Al-Suwaidi (B.F.A. ’14), VCUarts Qatar building, 2018.

After two decades of nurturing creative young minds, conducting research and organizing conferences and community events related to art and design, VCUarts Qatar can see clear evidence of its impact on Qatar.

Many alumni are now seasoned professionals with storied careers in Qatar, and the University’s mission to influence a second generation of students has begun. As the truest reflection of VCUarts Qatar’s 20-year history, this book closes with highlights of community activities and stories of alumni who are actively engaged in shaping the future of Qatar. ‫ وبحــوث‬،‫بعــد عقديــن مــن رعايــه العقــول الشــابة المبدعــة‬ ‫ تســتطيع‬،‫الفــن والتصميــم وتنظيــم المؤتمــرات والفعاليــات‬ ‫جامعــة فرجينيــا كومنولــث كليــة فنــون التصميــم فــي قطــر رؤيــة‬ ‫ يشــغل خريجونــا العديــد مــن المهــن‬.‫بصماتهــا علــى دولــة قطــر‬ ‫ وبــدأت رســالتنا فــي التأثيــر‬،‫والوظائــف المهمــة فــي دولــة قطــر‬ ‫ وكأفضــل تعبيــر عــن تاريخنــا‬.‫علــى الجيــل القــادم مــن الطــاب‬ ً ‫ نســلط الضــوء علــى نشــاطات‬،‫عامــا‬ ‫الــذي يمتــد لعشــرين‬ ‫مجتمعنــا ونعــرض قصــص الخريجيــن ومشــاركتهم بنشــاط فــي‬ .‫تشــكيل مســتقبل قطــر‬

Making Museums Matter Reem Al Thani’s (B.F.A. ’10) passion for design and her growing interest in museums helped drive the creation of the Exhibition Design Department at Qatar Museums. Her career has taken her from being an intern at Mathaf, to the role of the director of the Exhibition Design Department at Qatar Museums.

Al Thani, who studied dual B.F.A.s in Interior and Fashion Design at VCUarts Qatar, first became involved with Qatar Museums in 2009 when her class was invited to the opening of the MIA, and to have lunch with I.M. Pei, the Pritzker Prize–winning architect who designed the museum. She subsequently met with representatives from QM at a career fair and was offered a position as an intern at Mathaf.

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Design aspirations Al Thani joined Mathaf as a full-time employee upon graduation in 2010, where she gained valuable experience in the recently opened museum. “When I joined Mathaf, it was like a start-up company. There were only 15 people on staff, so everyone had to perform multiple roles to get things done,” she said. Over the following three years, Al Thani rose up the ranks at Mathaf to become acting director as the museum’s staff total rose to 40.

She described being part of the opening of Mathaf and being able to identify and maintain the specific spirit of the museum as one of her greatest accomplishments.

In 2013, she left Mathaf to pursue an M.F.A. in Interior Design at RISD. “I had been made acting deputy director when the deputy director left,” she explained. “I was only 23, and I didn’t feel like I was ready to manage and to leave design behind, so I sort of escaped to RISD where I could pursue my design aspirations and do some research.”

// Reem Al Thani (B.F.A. ’10) with her work, “20/20/20” exhibition, VCUarts Qatar Gallery, 2017.

Steadfast guidance She was already in conversation with Qatar Museums about starting an Exhibition Design Department there by the time she returned to Doha from RISD in 2015. “I joined because they promised me I could design, which was why I was head of Exhibition Design. I was able to exert creative control, and as I grew into the role I saw how I could be helpful as a manager, making it easy for designs to be implemented,” she said.

Al Thani admitted that, for a while, she was stuck between the worlds of design and management. “To be honest, I always knew that I was on the trajectory of management, but I fought it at first,” she said. “Then I took a hard look at what I am good at, and understood that management was a strength.”

Al Thani’s role has grown considerably since joining QM. She rose from head of Exhibition Design to become the director of the Central Exhibition Department. During her time at QM, she and her team have instituted a more formal approach to exhibition design, writing policies and procedures, and creating more comprehensive messaging across all of the QM locations, including Mathaf, the MIA, Doha Fire Station, QM Gallery Al Riwaq, and the gallery at Katara, as well as QM’s traveling exhibitions. When she joined, the department was outsourcing all of the design requirements. Under her steadfast guidance, the team of 15 employees now performs 80 to 90 percent of all design work internally and interacts with everyone from artists to contractors.

“ —Reem Al Thani

”

At least 20 percent of the creative positions at Qatar Museums are filled by VCUarts Qatar students and alumni.

A maker at heart She describes meeting with top architects, designers, artists and curators as the part of her job that is really rewarding.

“I work with museums and artists in Germany, Russia, India and all across Europe, and I learn a lot from these interactions,” she said. “The global museum community is kind of small and they help each other. I ask questions and have learned a lot about best practices. I have worked with every artist that has had anything to do with Qatar Museums in the last eight years.”

She lists having her work shown at VCUarts Qatar’s 20th anniversary “20/20/20” exhibition in 2017 as one of her biggest personal accomplishments. “That was nice because I am a maker at heart,” she said. “I love to experiment with wood, concrete and metal.”

Qatar Museums, according to Al Thani, “basically is VCUarts Qatar.” She points to Doha Fire Station as an example, “Look at the Fire Station: most of the artists come from VCUarts Qatar.

The people who hang out there and create the artist scene are from VCUarts Qatar, too. I would say at least 20 percent of the creative positions at Qatar Museums are filled by VCUarts Qatar students and alumni. Not just that, they are also in IT, HR, Administration and several other departments.”

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Design impact “Together we have sort of a collective memory shaped by VCUarts Qatar and we feel that QM is the right place for VCUarts Qatar creatives. Sometimes other companies sponsor the education of students, but they do not really get a chance to be fully creative in other places, but at QM, they can professionally explore their creativity.”

Al Thani’s ambition is to ensure that Qatar has the capacity to meet all its design needs and she believes great strides have been made in that direction. The importance of Qatar being able to meet its own design needs cannot be overstated. “People who are from this region and grew up here understand the context and nuances [that are] so important to design much better, and can make a greater design impact on the people who call Qatar home.”

One of the perceptions she fights to change is that it is not possible for Qatar to internally source capacity to meet the needs of the country. She notes that progress is being made, saying, “Young designers come to our exhibitions, and we can show them that we designed this, we did this, it is ours, and that has an impact on what they think is possible.”

// Reem Al Thani work, “20/20/20” exhibition, VCUarts Qatar Gallery, 2017.

Raising the Creative Voice As an artist whose process involves detecting issues and giving them voice, Othman Khunji’s (M.F.A. ’15) work has caught the attention of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa, Her Excellency Sheikha Intisar Salem Al Sabah, Sheikh Khalifa Al Khalifa, The Triennale Museum, Qatar Museums, Bahrain Museums, the Shangri-La Hotel and the Hilton Hotel. His M.F.A. collection is part of the QM permanent collection.

Khunji is a Bahraini artist who graduated from VCUarts Qatar’s M.F.A. in Design program in 2015. Today he is both a working artist and Student Recruitment and Admissions counsellor at VCUarts Qatar. His master thesis artwork collection, “The Five Pillars of Islam,” was spotted by Qatar Foundation’s art director, who wanted to procure one of the five interactive pieces for permanent installation in the Education City Mosque building.

However, when Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa, chairperson of QM, viewed the collection, she acquired it immediately in its entirety, thereby launching Khunji’s career. He recalled: “When I heard that Qatar Museums was going to exhibit it, my first question was, For how long? I just couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that it was going into the permanent collection.”

The long road home Khunji’s road to becoming an artist and admissions counsellor at VCUarts Qatar was long and winding. While he always knew he liked the creative fields, he did not initially have his family’s support to pursue his true passion, so he got a diploma in computer science, taking the first job he could find. After working for a time, he decided to pursue a more creative field, and settled on the only avenue available at the time: interior design. Despite working for a few interior design firms, Khunji still felt under-stimulated so decided to move to Bogotá, Colombia, in search of a more inspirational environment.

Soon after, however, a friend of his told him about VCUarts Qatar.

“The program was a revelation, exposing me to a great variety of tools and techniques in all kinds of art disciplines,” says Khunji, who found his creative voice while attending VCUarts Qatar.

His thesis research culminated in the creation of “The Prayery,” an interactive mechanical prayer rug that records acts of devotion, resulting in a custom-made rosary. Khunji dedicated the piece to his mother, who passed away when he was 21.

In his dedication he wrote that the piece invokes “a sentiment validating her voice that lives within me.”

The VCUarts Qatar years Khunji believes that the key skill that he took away from his M.F.A. in Design program at VCUarts Qatar, was how to accept criticism.

“I came to see constructive criticism as essential to the creative process, and that helps me in my ‘day job’ as a counsellor, too.”

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As an example, Khunji tells how, in 2015, he was accepted into the Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence program, where the famous Mahmoud Al Obaidly was acting as a mentor. He says it was there that he saw how VCUarts Qatar prepares its graduates to really benefit from critique. While some artists avoided the mentor because they did not like their work to be discussed and assessed, Khunji and his alumni peers eagerly sought out feedback. It helped to inform and develop his series “The Selfless Holy Ground,” which explored the derived relationship between a Muslim’s vanity and the divine.

// Othman Khunji (M.F.A. ’15), HBKU Mosque, 2018.

A career in the arts After graduating, Khunji worked at Qatar Museums’ exhibition department, before joining VCUarts Qatar as a Student Recruitment and Admissions counsellor, where his role brings him full circle.

“I see myself in some of the prospective applicants: I was also once a lost kid trying to find a path to express myself. I didn’t have anyone to listen to my dreams, or even any adult role models to look to, and I enjoy being able to give these students the support I lacked.”

Khunji is an extrovert and draws his inspiration from talking to people and the things and ideas he encounters in his daily life.

“My process involves detecting social justice issues within the Gulf region and giving them a voice.”

He views every new project as a learning experience in new techniques and sourcing new materials. Sometimes, he admits, he is overly ambitious. One such case was with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Italy, working with their prestigious Triennale Design Museum, that commissioned him to work on a piece for their traveling “Shape of Water” exhibition. The exhibition featured water vessels that speak to the traditions of various countries, with the deadline being extremely tight.

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His proposal was a water vessel made of clay, which would be decorated with a 3D-printed metal and camel skin. “I wanted to decorate the vessel with a quote from the Holy Quran that embodies the importance of water in our lives and complemented ٍ ِ ِ the product, (‫ي‬ ٍّ ‫ ) َو َج َع ْل َنا م َن ا ْل َماء ك َُّل َشيء َح‬to be 3D-printed in metal, along with a handle in the shape of a camel’s silhouette, just to add a contemporary twist to my work.” Khunji, however, had never 3D-printed metal before or worked with skin of any kind.

The escapade called for a lot of creative problem-solving and involved finding out that it is illegal to trade in camel skin in Qatar.

Unfazed, Khunji found a taxidermist at Souq Waqif, and, through persistence, explained that he was an artist and there would be no illegal activities involved. Finally, he was given a lead on where to source the camel skin, which ended with a visit to a butcher at four in the morning, and, under the supervision of the authorities, Khunji walked away with two huge heavy bags of skin, dripping with blood and crawling with bugs.

RIGHT // Othman Khunji work, “Religious Vanity II,” 2017, Source: The artist OPPOSITE // Othman Khunji work, “Prayery,” 2015, Source: The artist

Needless to say, the taxidermist was less than impressed, and yelled at Khunji to clean the thing before parasites contaminated it. His next stop was a car wash, where he begged them to let him use their power washers. At long last the required skin piece was brought to the taxidermist and processed by tanning, followed by a series of chemical baths. Khunji barely managed to finish his piece and send it to Italy in time. After all that rush, he found out that the first country the exhibition would be visiting was Qatar.

“So that is a glimpse into my creative process. It requires a lot of problem solving and thinking outside the box to get what I need, a lot of explaining myself and advocating for artists and designers with people who don’t generally have any interaction with art.”

Besides his art being acquired by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa, his other big achievement came when he was commissioned to do work for the “Women in War” exhibition organized by the Kuwait Red Crescent Society. The piece he created was a 70-centimeter-high 3D print of a fetus with its umbilical cord wrapped around a gun and attached to the trigger, mounted on a base of onyx.

“Its aim is for people to think about the human cost of war, and why I’m so proud is that when I presented it at the museum in Kuwait, I saw people in the audience tearing up.” Khunji adds that he is honored that his work has such a profound effect on people. Her Excellency Sheikha Intisar Salem Al Sabah of Kuwait acquired that piece, which is called “Inhumane.”

Sculpted by Ambition Hana Al-Saadi found fame while still a junior in VCUarts Qatar’s Painting + Printmaking program when she won the Damien Hirst Challenge in 2014. In the past year, her work has been exhibited on three continents. Qatar Museums has acquired her iconic “Hmmm” sculpture, of a ballerina in niqab, to install on the Corniche.

By the time she reached junior high, Al-Saadi already knew a future in the arts awaited her. She had fixed her eyes on Qatar University’s fine arts major at an early age, but, after following the advice of an art teacher who proposed that VCUarts Qatar would better fit her ambitions, she applied to one of the design degrees then on offer. However, by the time she was admitted to VCUarts Qatar, the university offered a fine arts degree, the B.F.A. in Painting + Printmaking. She was delighted she could pursue her passion at last, while still staying in Doha.

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Molded by VCUarts Qatar Al-Saadi says VCUarts Qatar helped her prepare for the future by teaching her how to multitask: work on multiple projects at the same time and set deadlines. Her most memorable experience of studying at VCUarts Qatar was winning the Damien Hirst challenge, a competition set in conjunction with Hirst’s first exhibition in the Middle East, “Relics.” Her installation art submission, “Snail Print Factory,” documented the natural lifecycle of snails through slime trails on paper. These trails told the stories of their individual journeys, encounters and new beginnings inside the tank.

Of the work, Hirst commented: “I love art like Hana’s that asks questions and makes you think and is difficult to define, and I love art that involves a living element; it makes the art feel more real.

It looks simple and is universal and communicates across international boundaries, which all great art should.”

“Winning a big competition while I was still studying at the University opened a lot of doors for me,” said Al-Saadi, who won an all-expenses-paid trip to tour one of Hirst’s studios in London, met the artist in person and helped create one of his famous spin paintings.

RIGHT // Hana Al-Saadi (B.F.A. ’15), 2017.

OPPOSITE L TO R // Hana Al-Saadi, 2017. // Hana with British artist Damian Hirst in his studio in London, 2014.

Source: Hana Al-Saadi

Scaling up Al-Saadi has continued to grow as an artist as her stature on the global stage grows with her. In 2015 and 2016, Al-Saadi won artist residencies at the Doha Fire Station. She exhibited her work there at shows in both years and in 2016 also showed her work at the Saatchi and P21 galleries in London. In 2017, her work was featured at the “Contemporary Art Qatar” exhibition in Berlin and in 2018 she was given a solo show at Mathaf. The Director of Mathaf, Abdellah Karroum, commented, “Al-Saadi is a promising emerging contemporary artist, educated and graduated in Qatar. Her art practice is very innovative and engenders discussion about our society’s heritage and aspirations.” In 2018, Qatar Museums started selling a music box featuring her sculpture of a ballerina in an abaya called “la.la.land.”

QBIC was using Stanford University’s LeanStartup method to help develop business ideas, and for the first year Matni managed the program. He began to develop content such as modules aimed at Qatar’s particular context. He also created the Accelerate program, a six-month program that develops and commercializes products.

Finding inspiration Matni cites his experiences at VCUarts Qatar as an important influence on his initiative. He was especially inspired by the field study trips during his M.F.A. and said that, “they were very well structured for knowledge transfer.” The trips to Italy and the Netherlands helped him understand how others work and think. He was able to participate in workshops, visit galleries and learn from a country’s extensive design heritage. He began to take young Qatari entrepreneurs on similar trips.

// Amin Matni (M.F.A. ’14), QBIC, 2018.

Connected to the community Creatives need support to bring these ideas to fruition. This is where Matni comes in. He gives creatives the tools, mentorship and support to activate their knowledge. “Qatar has made great strides towards diversifying its economy. You can see the change in the youth today, and even their parents have changed a lot.

But in terms of actual money produced, this takes time. So much money is generated by oil and gas that to see a true rebalancing of the economy will take time. I can say, however, that the path has been laid down and the first steps are there. My personal vision for Qatar doesn’t stop at 2030 and the development of a knowledge-based economy. I am trying to drive an innovation-based economy, because knowledge is not enough, it has to be activated.”

Matni often returns to VCUarts Qatar to lecture on entrepreneurship, and for social events. He comes to Karak Hours and alumni gatherings not only because he feels connected to the community but also to scout for talent. He explains, “VCUarts Qatar alumni are great young creative professionals, and it’s really nice to be able to help them.”

”

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At VCUarts Qatar, Matni taught classes in art direction, environmental design and brought students into his company for internships. However, he was more interested in using his design background to help develop human talent so he enrolled in the M.F.A. in Design program at VCUarts Qatar. Matni completed a thesis that explored how to solve larger social problems through design thinking. His thesis developed a program to be implemented at QF that combined design thinking and social innovation in order to improve policies related to migrant workers. After graduating in 2014, he presented his ideas to QF’s leadership and subsequently received funding through QSTP. As a result, Qatar implemented new migrant worker policies. For two years he taught workshops and many of his findings were adopted by local construction companies.

Later, Matni was hired as a program manager for the Qatar Business Incubation Center (QBIC).

When speaking about the role of creativity in entrepreneurship, Amin explained that entrepreneurship classes have to be part of engineering and design programs, not just business, because engineers, artists and designers are makers of things. They are taught to be innovative and make new connections to create new ideas and products. According to Matni, it is the uninhibited play and experimentation that artists and designers are taught as part of their creative process that yields real results.

—Amin Matni (M.F.A. ‘14)

Matni came to VCUarts Qatar as an accomplished entrepreneur, running a branding business in Qatar while working as an adjunct faculty member. His company was commissioned to develop the Qatar National Vision 2030 document along with the government’s national development strategy and the human development report. As such, Matni is no stranger to the aspirations of the country to diversify its economy from being carbon-based to becoming knowledge-based.

In 2018, Matni was mentoring his 11th wave of businesses starting the 10-week incubation or scale-up process. Each wave began with about 50 startups that were vetted through a rigorous ideation and development process for a chance to win QAR 100,000 seed investment along with three months of mentorship and coaching. Matni and his team coached 54 incubated startups.

“

Amin Matni used his M.F.A. in Design thesis to launch a career combining design thinking with fostering entrepreneurship.

VCUarts Qatar alumni are great young creative professionals, and it’s really nice to be able to help them.

Developing an Innovation Economy

Ahmed El Sayed (B.F.A. ‘11) co-founded House of Nomad in 2014 and was the guest designer at VCUarts Qatar’s annual fashion show in 2017. Fatema Al Hudaifi (B.F.A. ‘06) and Roda Al Hetmi (B.F.A. ‘07), co-founders of Impressions boutique and Tasmeem Flowers and Chocolates—Qatar’s first cupcake shop, and Latifa Al Mudahki (B.F.A. ‘08), founder of ModaKey boutique, are among several successful entrepreneurs. Some alumni, such as Noora Al-Mana (B.F.A. ‘05), took the skills learned at VCUarts Qatar into family businesses and enhanced them. Al-Mana helped manage Almana Maples and designed for them as well, working on projects such as the Ritz-Carlton Doha and Sharq Village & Spa. She now lives in London, working as an independent professional designer, planning, designing and furnishing interiors in residential, commercial and industrial environments.

OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Mona Alansari (B.F.A. ’12), 2013. // 18th annual fashion show “Appliqué,” Guest designer House of Nomad collection, 2017. // Elizabeth Yang Soon Ju (B.F.A. ’12, M.F.A. ’17), “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” 2017. // Interior of boutique Moda Key founded

by Latifa Al Mudahki (B.F.A. ’08), 2011.

Elizabeth Yang Soon Ju moved to Qatar with her two young children with her husband’s employment. With a Masters of Science in Chemistry from the National University of Singapore, she first completed a two-year business diploma at the College of North Atlantic-Qatar so she could better manage her husband’s business. It wasn’t long before she switched gears completely to enroll at VCUarts Qatar. She graduated with a B.F.A. in Fashion Design in 2012, minoring in Art History, and, in 2017, received her M.F.A. in Design. She uses her experience as an applied scientist, artist and designer to teach sophomore Fashion Design classes and community classes at VCUarts Qatar.

Following her lead, her daughter, Yeon Geong Hwang, enrolled in VCUarts Qatar’s B.F.A. in Graphic Design program.

Mona Alansari graduated with a double major in Fashion and Interior Design in 2012, and was the winner of the W Doha Fashion Award. She went on to join Qatar Airways and played a key role in the redesign of the airline’s uniforms.

Eman Abdulla Abdulla (B.F.A. ‘09) married while still a student at VCUarts Qatar. This mother of five works as a school program specialist for the Qatar Children’s Museum and runs her own jewelry business.

” —Elizabeth Yang Soon Ju (B.F.A. ‘12, M.F.A. ‘17)

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Contributing to Qatar’s socio-economic and cultural landscape Many VCUarts Qatar graduates have gone on to establish their own businesses, contributing to the development of the small and medium enterprise culture in Qatar. Noor Ajlan Al Kuwari (B.F.A. ‘03), founder of design firm Kro-k and the Moroccan-inspired home interiors store Bazaar, was named the Qatari Business Woman of the Year 2011. She continues to manage her family and business saying: “I grew up with two very successful parents, both of whom worked. They were my role models and set the standards for my perception of life, and I would never lower those standards.” Her works include her husband’s Moroccan restaurant “Tajine” in Souq Waqif and several private projects.

Some alumni such as Hissa Al Muhannadi, Mona Alansari and Elizabeth Yang Soon Ju are role models for young Qatari and expat women, successfully managing families, studies and careers. Al Muhannadi (B.F.A. ‘11) enrolled into the Interior Design program at VCUarts Qatar in 2007 after leaving behind a successful decade-long career as a math and science teacher. She was always interested in design, however, and with her husband’s support, she joined the program, graduated and immediately joined Qatar’s Amiri Flight as an interior designer. In 2018, she was awarded a Master of Science in Urban Design and Architecture in Muslim Societies from HBKU. She is presently the facilities and general services acting manager at the Ministry of Public Health.

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Alumni are an integral part of the community in Qatar. With almost 650 alumni representing over 50 nationalities, they form a unique international network of artists, designers, creators and innovators. They are proving to be well prepared for immersion in the art and design world, with a record of activities that contribute to raising the visibility of the University in Qatar and beyond. VCUarts Qatar alumni are creative thinkers and makers, pursuing successful careers within the government, non-profit and private industries in Qatar and around the world, while also pushing societies to engage thoughtfully and make steps toward social progress.

One of my biggest accomplishments is completing my M.F.A. in Design. The program allowed me to be a more creative thinker… I’m much more empowered.

VCUarts Qatar’s Finest: Artists and Designers Leading the Way

Gihad Walid Ataala (B.F.A. ‘17) is an interior designer and art director at Elegant Technical Solutions and Services, and previously worked as a consultant and art director with Porsche, Alfardan, Katara and other companies. She is also a member of the Qatar Rugby Team, which won the Gold Medal at the 2018 West Asian Games.

Cynthia Batir (B.F.A. ‘09) went on to get her M.A. in Interior and Product Design from the Accademia Italiana, Florence, Italy, in 2010. She then successfully took the LEED AP exam, and now works as an interior designer for the Civil Aviation Authority in Qatar.

Lubna Mohamed Al Essa (B.F.A. ‘05) received her M.A. in Strategic Business Unit Management from HEC Paris in 2016. She is currently the director of brand for beIN Media Group, where she started as an animator.

Asma Al Thani (B.F.A. ‘10) joined Ooredoo as a senior analyst after graduation, became head of corporate communications at Enterprise Qatar and later director of marketing for the 24th Men’s Handball World Championship held in 2015, before going on to become the director of communications and marketing for the Qatar Olympics Committee in 2015. An adventurer at heart, Al Thani was among the first group of Qatari women to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in 2014 in a charitable endeavor to raise QAR 2 million for Gaza. She also became the first Qatari to ski to the last degree of the North Pole as part of an international team that aimed to foster greater dialogue and understanding between women from Western and Arabian cultures, and inspire all women to fulfil their ambitions.

—Peter Martin

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The real impact of VCUarts Qatar over these past 20 years has been the seeding of families, communities, and organizations with creative people who are capable of envisioning and innovating alternative expressions of meaning and practices of value within their daily work and leisure. I believe this is going to be the real legacy of VCUarts Qatar.

// Gihad Ataalla (B.F.A. ’17), “BFA & MFA Exhibition,” 2017.

Shaping the community while giving art and design meaning When it comes to building a local arts scene, VCUarts Qatar alumni are fully engaged and ambitious. They are conscious that having a strong cultural scene is good for the well-being of the city as a whole. With this in mind, they are participating in, supporting and growing the local arts scene.

In 2013, Dima Masoud (B.F.A. ‘10), Rana Selo (B.F.A. ‘09), Ahood Al Dafa (B.F.A. ‘12) and Assil Diab (B.F.A. ‘11) worked with French-Tunisian graffiti artist eL Seed on “Calligraffiti,“ painting four underpasses on Qatar’s Salwa Road. They embellished 52 large-scale murals with artistic graffiti themes inspired by anecdotes from Qatari culture. The project was managed

by Qatar Museums’ Public Art Department and the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), which had commissioned eL Seed to create the artworks using his distinctive “calligraffiti” style, fusing the inspiration of Arabic calligraphy with the raw hip-hop feel of urban youth art.

// Assil Diab (B.F.A. ’11) and Dima Masoud (B.F.A. ’10), flanking calligraffiti artist eL Seed, and other underpass mural volunteers who took part in the public art project organized by Qatar Museums. Source: Qatar Museums

Assil Diab was listed by the “She Leads Africa” website as the first graffiti artist emerging from Qatar and Sudan. Diab has been freelancing since graduating from VCUarts Richmond in 2011 and was interviewed by BBC Xtra and Deutsche Welle TV, among other media to share her story. Assil went on an exchange program from VCUarts Qatar to VCUarts Richmond in 2009 and graduated from Richmond. She has held various exhibitions in Qatar, Bahrain, Germany, Sudan, Bangladesh and other countries.

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The Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence program, a Qatar Museums initiative, was launched in 2015 to provide support to the next generation of cultural producers. The residency program helps inspire an indigenous culture of creativity and innovation in Qatar, and involves mentoring and tutoring from respected local artists.

Housed in the original garage of the Doha Fire Station building, the Garage Gallery hosts the residency end-of-year exhibition and is open to artists, students and professors from universities across Qatar and the region. VCUarts Qatar alumni have been selected every year for the program since its inception. They have included Maryam Al-Homaid (B.F.A. ‘10, M.F.A. ‘14), Othman Khunji (M.F.A. ‘15), Roudha Ibrahim Al-Nassr (B.F.A. ‘15), Fatma Abdulla Al-Remaihi (B.F.A. ‘10), Hana Al-Saadi (B.F.A. ‘15), Emelina Soares (B.F.A. ‘15), Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13), Ahmed Al Jufairi (B.F.A. ‘14), Shouq Al Mana (B.F.A. ‘17), Fatima Mohammad (B.F.A. ‘16) and Aisha Al Fadhala (B.F.A. ‘17).

Abdulla Al Kuwari (B.F.A. ‘14) was selected for a three-month residency in 2017 at the Cité Internationale des Arts in Paris where he was given a studio and accommodation to pursue his passion for painting. Held under the patronage of Qatar Museums Chairperson Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa, the Paris residency is an extension of the Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence program.

VCUarts Qatar alumni have represented the university at exhibitions around the world. Ayaz Rauf (B.F.A. ‘16) and Habeeb Buftaim (B.F.A. ′16) were selected for the Santa Cruz Biennial in 2016.

The biennial included the show “Medio Oriente,” which showcased leading artists from the Middle East including well-known names such as Yousef Nabil and Adel Abidin. Noha Fouad’s (M.F.A. ‘16) “Embodiment of Empathy: Experiencing Disease Through Design,” was accepted to the peer-reviewed 2016 Cumulus Hong Kong International Design Conference in the category Open Design for Empathy and was showcased there in 2016.

CLOCKWISE FROM L // Doha Fire Station, 2015. // Fatma Al Remaihi (B.F.A. ’10), Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence, 2015. // Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13), Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence, 2015.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Othman Khunji (M.F.A. ’15), Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence, 2015. // Roda Al-Nassr (B.F.A. ’15), Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence, 2015. // Assistant Professor Maryam Al-Homaid (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’14), Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence, 2015.

OPPOSITE // Emelina Soares (B.F.A. ’15), Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence, 2015.

In 2017, Assistant Professor Maryam Al-Homaid (B.F.A. ‘10, M.F.A. ‘14) exhibited her work “Patterns of Human Behaviors” at Bangkok Design Week, Thailand, and Wajiha Pervez (M.F.A. ‘17) had her piece “Denim-Abaca” exhibited at the Intersections Gallery of Loughborough University in the U.K. Othman Khunji (M.F.A. ‘15) was invited to exhibit his work at both the Saatchi Gallery in London and the Bahrain Fort Site Museum in Bahrain, and was part of the juried exhibit “Women and War” at The Hub, Kuwait City, Kuwait.

Adjunct Professor Sultana Jesmine (B.F.A. ‘13, M.F.A. ‘17) had her work showcased at London Modest Fashion Week.

Her team’s prayer rug design was a finalist in the “Modern Prayer Rug” competition, and one of her designs was exhibited at the “4th International Calligraphies in Conversation” at the San Francisco Public Library in 2017.

Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13) had her work featured at the London Design Biennale in 2018. Her work was selected

by Qatar Museums to represent Qatar at the prestigious event.

In an international outreach and engagement effort in 2016, Assistant Professor Maja Kinnemark and Theekshani Perera (B.F.A. ‘16) were invited to participate in an exclusive Humanitarian Design Conference that gathered 25 international architects, behavioral scientists, material scientists, designers and engineers on Lesbos, Greece, the island that has received highest influx of refugees from war-torn Syria. They offered their expertise in a panel discussion that asked “How can innovative design and new technologies improve the situation of camp refugees?”

Furthering art and design education VCUarts Qatar alumni are contributing to the development of new practices in art and design as educators, teaching courses spanning from kindergarten to university and beyond.

In 2016, VCUarts Qatar collaborated with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, developing workshops aimed at human legacy and capacity-building within local communities surrounding the stadiums that are being built for the 2022 FIFA World Cup QatarTM. High school students were engaged in 13 art-related workshops at the University, reflecting on the local community, its history and heritage. Classes were taught by VCUarts Qatar professors and alumni.

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The Qatari Junior Faculty program was initiated in fall 2014 and Maryam Al-Homaid (B.F.A. ‘10, M.F.A. ‘14) was the first junior faculty member appointed under the program to work under the supervision and mentorship of the Graphic Design program. In 2015, Mahmoud Abbas (B.F.A. ‘11) joined as a junior faculty member in the department of graphic design.

Abbas returned to VCUarts Qatar after completing his M.F.A. in Graphic Design at the University of Edinburgh College of Art, in the U.K. Hawa Stwodah (M.F.A. ‘16) became VCUarts Qatar’s first graduate to go on to teach at VCUarts Richmond when she joined their Department of Fashion Design + Merchandising. The honor was further expanded by her appointment as assistant director of the department in 2018. She forges a new career path for VCUarts Qatar graduates.

Yasmeen Suleiman (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’16) returned to teach VCUarts Qatar’s Materials and Methods class, while Noha Fouad (M.F.A. ‘16) works at the Library as a research and project assistant. Melina Gama De Moura (B.F.A. ‘09) works as an art educator at the Museum of Islamic Art. She also has a certificate in Museum Studies from Harvard Extension School. Her accomplishments include speaking at the “Definitely Able Conference” at Qatar University, aimed at training master-level art educators to teach art to children with mental challenges. She also runs a freelance writing and artist business called Melimoura.

RIGHT TOP TO BOTTOM // Yasmeen Suleiman (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’16) and Abdul Rahman Anwa (B.F.A. ’16), 2018. Photograph: Hadeer Omar // Mahmoud Abbas (B.F.A. ’11), 2014.

OPPOSITE L TO R // Work by Associate Professor Levi Hammett and Assistant Professor Maryam Al-Homaid, faculty exhibition “Form (force),” Tasmeem Doha 2017, “Analogue Living in a Digital World.” // Hadeer Omar (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’16) with her work, “20/20/20” exhibition, 2017.

Shareefa Darwish (B.A. ‘16) is employed as assistant art educator

by Qatar Museums and Reem Abou-Ghazala (B.A. ‘15) returned as an instructor to the Department of Art History after completing her M.A. in Museum and Gallery Practice at UCL Qatar in 2017.

She taught several classes during the 2017–2018 academic year and moved to the MIA in the fall of 2018. These alumni set the tone for art history graduates, playing a productive role in educating the next generation of Qataris to appreciate and value the arts.

VCUarts Qatar’s Art Foundation Department hired two alumni, Fatma Al Remaihi (B.F.A. ’10) and Hadeer Omar (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’16), as adjunct teaching assistants to gain teaching experience and exposure to the academic work environment, while alleviating the load of the faculty. As cultural insiders, their contribution facilitates an even more effective relationship between the students and the department. Al Remaihi was awarded her M.F.A. in 2016 from The Art Institute of Chicago. Omar, an experienced and talented graphic designer and videomaker, conducted a workshop on stop motion animation that taught design thinking to children and adults at Msheireb Museums, and had her work displayed at the San Francisco Public Library.

Building a Vibrant Community in Qatar Virginia Commonwealth University has over 180 years of history dedicated to serving the common good. The charter from 50 years ago, establishing the University in its current configuration, asks VCU to engage in the social environment, relate to the community and participate in developing solutions to problems.

In its expansion overseas, VCU has remained committed to the prospect of solving local problems and meeting community needs through active listening, partnership development, programming and knowledge sharing. The mutually beneficial community relationships developed in response here in Qatar have molded its teaching and learning, scholarship and community programming. Through these community interactions and collaborative projects, VCU is seeking to improve lives, save lives and give life meaning.

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Community engagement is a key element of the programs as is evidenced by VCUarts Qatar’s real-world design prompts, annual fashion show and “BFA & MFA Exhibition.” It also features heavily in student clubs and activities, and faculty and staff service.

In addition to these embedded activities, the University maintains a robust schedule of community programming. The following section gives a small overview of signature community engagement activities at VCUarts Qatar. Themes of these activities include fostering appreciation of people from diverse backgrounds, encouraging community-member personal growth through the arts and enabling students to apply creative and critical thinking learned in the classroom to real-world challenges.

Exhibitions and lectures program At the core of VCUarts Qatar’s mission as an art and design school is the desire to provide a vibrant space for creative expression that sparks a desire to learn more, exchange ideas and critically examine the world. To achieve this aim, the University maintains a comprehensive program of gallery exhibitions and public lectures open to the public, which bring globally and regionally recognized artists, designers, curators and commentators to the heart of its creative community.

Public lectures are anchored around the “Crossing Boundaries Lecture Series,” which brings four to six globally recognized artists, designers and scholars to campus each year to speak about the cross-disciplinary and reciprocal nature of art and design practice and research. The lectures are at once educational, entertaining and inspiring, challenging the audience to re-evaluate common perceptions and understandings of art and design.

Guest speakers have included: Florian Ortkrass, Feral Childe, Dice Kayek, Mikro Ilic, Michael Rossato-Bennett, Alix Madigan-Yorkin, Crispin Jones, Alia Farid and Mohamed Elshahed among other notable and emerging artists and designers.

Guests also come to speak at the opening of exhibitions put on by VCUarts Qatar. These exhibitions are integral to enhancing the everyday experience of the VCUarts Qatar community, and include displays of art and design work by students, faculty, invited artists, designers and creative organizations through collaborations with local art groups and other galleries worldwide.

These exhibitions, both solo and group, take place at the VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, at other locations throughout the University building and at partner galleries such as Doha Fire Station. The Gallery at VCUarts Qatar has hosted both solo exhibitions—Fathi Hassan, Younès Rahmoun, Droog Design, David Batchelor, Kate Terry, Mariana Heilmann and John O’Connor—and group exhibitions such as “Papercuts,” “New York Chronicles” and “Children of Gaza,” among others.

Bringing over 2,000 visitors a year to VCUarts Qatar and Education City for exhibitions and lectures, the program fosters public dialogue concerning contemporary art and design practice in the region and worldwide. It also serves as a link between internationally-acclaimed exhibiting artists and lecturers and VCUarts Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Qatar and the wider region.

// Leila Natsheh work (B.F.A. ’13), “20/20/20” exhibition, 2017.

Community education classes As part of its mission to provide educational opportunities in art and design to learners of all ages and abilities, VCUarts Qatar offers four community education programs per year, one in the fall, two in the spring, and one in the summer.

Participants can choose from a wide variety of art-, design- and craft-related subjects. These courses are generally taught over a period of eight weeks, during weekday evenings and weekends.

Most classes are delivered at the University’s art studios, but some are taught at a partner venue, the IAID Academy for Arts, Dance & Music. Regular classes are offered to anyone above the age of 15 and special classes are available for children of various age groups.

In the fall, portfolio development classes are open for high school students who need a portfolio to apply to art and design colleges.

During spring break, female students between the ages of 10–14 from independent schools can take advantage of a special school holiday program. A summer holiday camp with a variety of different programs at varying degrees of intensity and course duration is offered to age groups ranging from 4 to over-16.

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Community class instructors are recruited from the local community and come with a deep knowledge of their craft. VCUarts Qatar alumni, after a period of shadow teaching, are increasingly teaching these courses on their own. The portfolio development classes are taught by faculty and alumni, and mirror the classroom experience of the University’s degree programs.

How VCUarts Qatar Community Art Classes changed one woman’s life Splendor. Joy. Spirituality. Astonishment. These are the words Fatima Azzahrae Chaabani uses to describe her first experience with art in VCUarts Qatar’s Community classes. Mastering the art of illumination was not an aspiration Chaabani thought she could have growing up in Morocco. She had a more conventional dream: getting an excellent postgraduate education and then a good job doing meaningful work. This is a dream she achieved. She earned two B.A. degrees in Political Science and Islamic Studies from Mohamed V University, Rabat, Morocco, before completing a M.A. in Cultural Policy and Management at Sheffield Hallam University in the U.K., and going on to be a visiting fellow at Yale University.

She then worked for the Islamic Scientific Educational and Cultural Organization and later as a senior communication specialist for the Center for Islamic Legislation and Ethics at HBKU’s Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies.

It was while Chaabani was in Doha, struggling with the 60-plushour weeks of her demanding job and in the process of beginning a Ph.D. in her field when Chaabani had an awakening. Looking for something to bring more fulfillment to her busy life, and having never taken art of any kind, she found the VCUarts Qatar classes online and signed up for a calligraphy class as a “nice distraction.”

But the act of artistic expression proved to be much more than a distraction. “It was a spiritual call that I couldn’t resist,” she said.

“Since day one, I realized that impact of calligraphy on me was far more profound than what I assumed. It’s a deeply spiritual activity that requires full presence of the heart and mind, a direct connection between the action of my hand and the awareness of my soul. I needed to learn more about this profound connection. The profound feeling of happiness and fulfillment from those classes was too beautiful and too strong to ignore. It felt very natural to quit my previous job in communications and pursue my passion for arts after that.”

Fast forward four years, and her 12-hour day is spent joyfully making natural pigments and creating harmonious color palettes as well as applying Islamic and medieval manuscript gold gilding techniques to decorate verses of the Holy Quran. This process is aptly called “illumination.” For Chaabani, who learned Islamic illumination techniques through a 9-week apprenticeship with prominent illuminator and calligrapher Ayten Tiryaki in Turkey, the rigorous attention to detail required can only be maintained through deep love, intensive practice and a spiritual connection to her work.

After years of practice through additional classes and then through a master’s program at Prince’s School of Traditional Arts in London, her fully fledged artistic being has taken flight.

In keeping with the transformative journey, Chaabani’s final master’s project revolved around illuminating the opening chapter of the Holy Quran using illumination traditions from Morocco, China, Persia and the Ottoman Empire.

Her repertoire of artistic techniques includes silk painting, Indian and Persian miniatures and Arabic and Latin calligraphy.

She is again preparing for her Ph.D., but this time in art practice.

Looking back, Chaabani wishes she had the chance to discover her passion as a child. “I don’t regret my previous education and professional experience, but I took a very long way to be where I am today. Practicing arts is profoundly fulfilling both spiritually and visually, and there is no downside to it. I, like many people, felt imprisoned by social conformity: the struggle to achieve financial security and to feel that my life was stable and under control. It took a lot of courage and there were real risks involved in deciding to step out of my comfort zone and acknowledge what my soul was craving. Taking the community art classes at VCUarts Qatar resulted in a major breakthrough in my life, and I am eternally grateful for this priceless opportunity.”

Her first solo exhibition, “Eclosion,” was held in Rabat, Morocco, in 2016, and her thesis show, “Splendors of Quran Calligraphy and Illumination: Tribute to Martin Lings,” was exhibited in London at the Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts in 2018. She was featured in a “Hekayati” segment on London’s Al Hiwar TV. Her successful career all started with a community arts class.

OPPOSITE TOP TO BOTTOM // Silver jewelry-making community class taught by Jo Mohammed, 2017. // Islamic art community class, 2017.

Photograph: Bosco Menezes

“ —Michael Rao, Ph.D.

”

We’re really proud of our legacy of being a school that values collaboration, experimentation and diversity. Our people have inspired industries, organizations, societies and individuals.

Student service-learning trips Since 2011, students and faculty volunteers from VCUarts Qatar have traveled to Indonesia for a service-learning trip to the Reach Out to Asia (ROTA)–funded SMK N1 ROTA Bayat School in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The vocational school constructed by ROTA following the 2006 earthquake has been a Center for Excellence for teaching crafts. During the trips, faculty and students provide instruction in art, design and crafts to the students of Bayat. The VCUarts Qatar volunteers have conducted workshops that introduced ROTA Bayat students to Adobe Photoshop, fashion drawing, screen-printing, jewelry-making, motion graphics and bookbinding. The service-learning trips funded by the University’s fashion shows have offered VCUarts Qatar and ROTA Bayat students an opportunity to learn with, and from, each other. The experiences have brought students from Qatar and Indonesia together and created a reciprocal cultural and educational exchange that has broadened their respective horizons.

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Another ongoing community involvement project brings VCUarts Qatar students to the Muen Phem village in northern Thailand.

A collaboration with the Department of Interior Design, the Student Affairs Office and the youth experiential service-learning company Into the Wild, the program brings students to the village to participate in cultural exchange. Students live with the Karen people and learn weaving and looming, cooking, wood and bamboo carving, farming and living off the land. In exchange, they contribute to the development of the village by building infrastructure. Responding to a need for teacher housing at the remote village, the students designed and helped to build a house to be used by the village school. Students also have helped to create an ethnography to aid in the establishment of a living museum for the village. One trip resulted in a cultural artifact display case being built based on a student design.

OPPOSITE TOP TO BOTTOM // VCUarts Qatar faculty and students from the Art History, Graphic Design, Interior Design and Painting + Printmaking Departments traveling on a field trip to the International Global Trends in Contemporary Islamic Art workshop, Lisbon, Portugal, 2014.

Source: Siddhartha Shakya // Service-learning trip to Thailand, 2017. Source: Leland Hill LEFT TOP TO BOTTOM // Rabab Abdulla (B.F.A. ’13), service-learning trip, Thailand, 2013.

Source: Interior Design Department // Interior Design students, service-learning trip, Thailand, 2012. Source: Interior Design Department

Developing a culture of literacy Fostering English literacy in a fun and engaging manner is important to the success of students once they reach university level. Assistant Professor of English Sadia Mir takes this task seriously and has played a critical role in the development of the U.S. Embassy in Qatar and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education’s Young Writers Program.

About the program The Young Writers Program (YWP), fosters a critical and creative English writing culture in Qatar. Mir has served as the writing specialist for the program since its inception in 2014. Over the years, the YWP has grown to a nationwide youth program and thousands of students have benefited from its outreach. In the 2017–2018 cycle, students from 135 government schools, representing 80 percent of all schools in Qatar, participated in the program.

The YWP is the U.S. Embassy’s largest public affairs program.

It supports English language learning in local government schools and develop students’ critical thinking skills through reading and writing. The program consists of four major programming elements that take place during the academic year: teacher professional development, student writing workshops, the Young Writers Competition and the Young Writers Journal, a print anthology of creative writing authored by local students.

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Program impact Acting in her capacity as a writing specialist, Mir designs the curriculum for student writing workshops and teacher professional development opportunities. She also acts as editor for the Young Writers Journal. She is especially mindful of how the program “address[es] challenges in motivation and engagement in the creative arts by providing students opportunities for self-expression, to develop their own creative voice, and to value themselves as meaningful contributors to a knowledge-based society through writing.” She adds that the role also helps to increase the presence and visibility of VCUarts Qatar in the community.

Through the YWP, students are encouraged to engage with wider social issues through personal experience. The annual writing themes are selected to be both culturally relevant and to unlock creative potential. The 2015–2016 theme, for example, focused on the value of education and the concept of global citizenry, and incorporated quotes from Her Highness Sheikha Moza that touched on these themes. The outcome of the competition is the creation of culturally relevant literature through the Young Writers Journal. This journal serves as a tangible way to honor the voices of Qatar’s youth. The publication is edited by Mir and is designed

by Associate Professor Law Alsobrook.

A change in attitudes towards writing could be seen even in the first few years. Ms. Al Remaihi, head of the English Curriculum Team at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, noted that, “Students’ attitudes are beginning to change…students are in it for the experience.” Students themselves show this in their writing. As one fifth-grade student wrote, “Writing is like music from the heart. I feel writing will change the world.” Other students also expressed a genuine love for writing developed through the program. One said, “Writing is my safe haven,” while another expressed that “Writing is my best friend” and a third explained, “Writing makes me feel satisfied with myself.”

According to Mir, the program also fosters a community of young writers. “This takes students out of their own classroom environments and allows them to exchange ideas and learn from students in other schools. It can be viewed as an internal student exchange program, in a way, that is a scenario that doesn’t really exist in their standard academic experiences,” she explains.

The work of the YWP was honored through a nomination for the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) award in 2016.

The nomination spurred further program growth. In fall 2017, Mir worked with the U.S. Embassy in Qatar and the Social & Economic Survey Research Institute at Qatar University to deliver a survey to assess the impact of the program on students and teachers. She also assisted the embassy with the planning and implementation of the first “Young Writers Open Mic” arts and literary community event in partnership with the Ministry and WISE as part of Doha Learning Week. Students of all ages—from primary to university—attended to read original poetry, recite favorite pieces of literature and perform music and song.

In 2018, VCUarts Qatar again hosted the competition award ceremony for the program. VCUarts Qatar’s sponsorship of this event bears witness to the importance of the program in developing successful university students in Qatar, and its commitment to creative development in many fields.

OPPOSITE TOP TO BOTTOM // Faculty Exhibition, VCUarts Qatar Gallery, work by Associate Professor Michael Hersrud pictured, 2016. // Tasmeem graphics, “3ajeeb!” Tasmeem Doha, 2015.

‫التميز‬ ‫عشرون عاما من‬ ‫ُّ‬ ‫‪20 Years of Excellence‬‬

‫ً‬ ‫عامــا علــى تأسيســها‪ ،‬قامــت جامعــة‬ ‫احتفــاال بمــرور عشــرين‬ ‫ً‬ ‫فرجينيــا كومنولــث كليــة فنــون التصميــم فــي قطــر بإقامــة عــدد‬ ‫مــن االحتفــاالت خــال العــام الدراســي ‪ .2018–2017‬شــمل ذلــك‬ ‫العديــد مــن المعــارض واالحتفــاالت الخاصــة بالطــاب والخريجيــن‪،‬‬ ‫إضافــة إلــى حفــل عشــاء لشــكر كل مــن ســاهم فــي هــذا التاريــخ‪.‬‬ ‫ً‬ ‫وتزامنــا مــع هــذه االحتفــاالت‪ ،‬قامــت الجامعــة بإعــادة تنظيــم‬ ‫عالمتهــا التجاريــة لتعكــس مواءمــة هــذا الحــرم القطــري وبشــكل‬ ‫أكبــر مــع هويــة الحــرم الجامعــي األم فــي ريتشــموند فرجينيــا‬ ‫والمصنــف فــي المرتبــة األولــى بيــن الكليــات العامــة فــي الفــن‬ ‫والتصميــم فــي الواليــات المتحــدة‪ ،‬ومنــذ ذلــك الوقــت أصبــح‬ ‫االســم المختصــر لجامعــة فرجينيــا كومنولــث كليــة فنــون التصميم‬ ‫بــدال مــن (‪.)VCUQatar‬‬ ‫فــي قطــر‪)VCUarts Qatar( :‬‬ ‫ً‬

‫ً‪5‬‬

‫‪To commemorate the 20th year of partnership with Qatar‬‬ ‫‪Foundation, VCUarts Qatar held a number of celebratory‬‬ ‫‪events in the 2017–2018 academic year. These included‬‬ ‫‪an exhibition of alumni work, celebrations with students,‬‬ ‫‪reminiscing with alumni, a gala thanking supporters and‬‬ ‫‪the production of 20th-anniversary artifacts, banners‬‬ ‫‪and a coordinated media campaign. The anniversary‬‬ ‫‪celebrations coincided with a comprehensive brand‬‬ ‫‪realignment with the home campus that changed the‬‬ ‫‪abbreviation of VCUQatar to VCUarts Qatar, thereby‬‬ ‫’‪highlighting the connection to the United States‬‬ ‫‪#1 ranked public art school, VCUarts.‬‬

‫‪// 20th-anniversary souvenirs gifts,‬‬ ‫‪20th-anniversary gala, Sheraton‬‬ ‫‪Grand Doha Resort & Convention‬‬ ‫‪Hotel, May 7, 2018.‬‬

124 // 125

“20/20/20” The year’s celebrations began with the “20/20/20” exhibition, which unveiled the compelling achievements of 20 VCUarts Qatar alumni in a spectrum of multidisciplinary creations under one umbrella.

The artists and designers whose works were featured are: Abdulrahman Anwar (B.F.A. ’16) and Mohammad Jawad (B.F.A. ’15), Abdulla Najib Al-Kuwari (B.F.A. ’14), Ahood Al-Dafa (B.F.A. ’12), Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13) Assil Diab (B.F.A. ’11), Bothina A. Al-Muftah (B.F.A. ′09), Dhika Khaira (B.F.A. ’15), Faisal Mohammad (M.F.A. ’16), Fatma Al Remaihi (B.F.A. ’10), Hadeer Omar (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’16), Hana Al-Saadi (B.F.A. ’15), Leila Natsheh (B.F.A. 2013), Maryam Faraj Al-Suwaidi (B.F.A. ’13), Othman Khunji (M.F.A. ’15), Reem Al-Thani (B.F.A. ’10), Sahar Mari (B.F.A. ’10), Sumam Azzam (B.F.A. ’15) and Wurood Azzam (B.F.A. ‘16). The 2017 exhibition was curated by Ahmad Oustwani (B.F.A. ’12) and Maryam Al-Homaid (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’14).

TOP TO BOTTOM // Hadeer Omar work (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’16), “20/20/20” exhibition, 2017. // Sumam Ismail Azzam work (B.F.A. ‘15), “20/20/20” exhibition, 2017. // Dhika Khaira work (B.F.A. ’15), “20/20/20” exhibition, 2017.

” —Dean Donald Baker, Ph.D.

Together, the University celebrates the achievement of having carved out a broader niche out of which the light of creativity can shine. What it can see from this vantage point is the opening of a new vista for Qatar and the region, a landscape where new ideas and knowledge can be planted, cultivated and harvested to build a better world.

“

Yet, it is getting ready for what comes next that remains the true task of the University. This sentiment was summed up at the 2018 Commencement gala by the Co-Valedictorian Dimitri Salomão (B.A. ‘18), who said, “Graduation ceremonies are—at their core—a celebration of the past and at the same time look at the endless possibilities of the future. They’re meant to acknowledge our achievements over the past few years, but it’s really about what comes next. That’s why we come to university in the first place, right? To have a better future.”

In our 20th year, we continue to be excited about the opportunities to cultivate an environment of research, learning and community engagement.

Memories and reflections, gratitude and lessons learned, hopes and plans: these are the fruits of anniversary celebrations. Over 20 years, VCUarts Qatar has played host to a remarkable gathering of talented artists, designers, supporters and visionaries who have played a significant role in shaping the nation’s cultural, physical and aspirational landscape. In its 20th year, the University gives thanks to the faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members who carried it on this journey, and helped create a lasting mark on this nation.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP // Hana Al-Saadi work (B.F.A. ’15), “20/20/20” exhibition, 2017. // Exhibiting alumni, “20/20/20” exhibition opening, 2017. // Leila Natsheh work (B.F.A. ’13), “20/20/20” exhibition, 2017.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // Students, staff, faculty and Dean Donald Baker, Ph.D., 20th-anniversary Karak Hour, 2018. // 20th-anniversary souvenirs mugs, Karak Hour, 2018. // Cake cutting by Dean Baker Ph.D. and SGA President Anusheh Zaman, 20th-anniversary Karak Hour, 2018. // 20th-anniversary souvenirs badges, Karak Hour, 2018.

“Hindsight” In February 2018, the lighthearted “Hindsight” exhibition was unveiled, showcasing a collection of photographs of the University’s faculty and staff when they were in their twenties.

“Many of our students are in their twenties now and we thought it would be great fun to show them that we, too, were once in our twenties, even though that may have been many decades ago,” said Mike Gallagher, digital content and social media manager.

“It shows another side of the faculty and staff to our students, and ultimately it brings us all closer, which is one of VCUarts Qatar’s biggest strengths.” Associate Professor Michael Hersrud, co-curated the exhibition.

Karak Hour Also in February, the University came together in a relaxed atmosphere. Students, faculty and staff gathered in the Atrium to take part in VCU-themed board games and other games and activities. The VCUarts Qatar community took advantage of a 20th-anniversary photo booth, while enjoying the chocolate fountain, crazy drinks, nachos and other snacks.

The fun began with an introduction by Assistant Dean for Student Affairs Valerie Jeremijenko, who said: “As someone who has been here for close to 17 of those 20 years, I have been a witness to the work of all the faculty, all the staff and all our amazing students and alumni, as we have worked towards cultivating the arts, igniting imaginations and changing the perception of art and design in Qatar. We have come a long way in 20 years and made a very big impact. Thank you all for being change-makers and innovators. Thank you all for being a part of this mission.”

Student Government Association President Anusheh Zaman and Interim Manager of International Education and Student Programming LaKisha Tillman also addressed the assembled students before joining the dean and other student association presidents on the Atrium’s stage to cut the 20th-anniversary cake.

The attendees also received specially created 20th-anniversary souvenir mugs and badges.

20 Hekaya In April, more than 150 alumni attended the 20 Hekaya alumni event, which took place at the courtyard. As the name suggests, the event celebrated 20 years of alumni stories. Esra Kazem (B.F.A. ‘10, M.F.A. ‘14), Aisha Al-Sowaidi (B.F.A. ′05, M.F.A. ′13), and Othman Khunji (M.F.A. ’15) took part in a panel where they shared their memories of school and their experiences since graduation.

Faculty from VCU Richmond participated via video conference and released balloons as part of the celebration. Hadeer Omar (B.F.A. ’10, M.F.A. ’16), Wajiha Pervez (M.F.A. ‘17), Yasmeen Suleiman (B.F.A. ’11, M.F.A. ’16) and Noha Fouad (M.F.A. ‘16), the four cochairs of the Tasmeem Doha 2019 conference, announced the upcoming conference theme “Hekayat” to the gathered alumni.

The take-away message was that alumni have an important role to play in art and design in the region, and that the powerful new voices from VCUarts Qatar graduates will lead the way in defining the future.

The day began with the Commencement as graduating students were conferred their degrees. The event was made memorable by inspiring and touching speeches given by faculty and graduates.

The event brought together families, friends, faculty and staff to celebrate the accomplishments of VCUarts Qatar’s graduates.

Al-Thani emphasized Qatar’s belief in education in his address.

“This significant institutional milestone—two fruitful decades of Qatar Foundation’s partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar—reflects the continuing commitment of His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, to education as a pillar of society and an engine of growth, prosperity and security.”

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Class of 2018 Co-Valedictorians Asma Hasan (B.F.A. ‘18) and Dimitri Salomão (B.A. ‘18) gave a well-received speech in which they thanked their families, fellow graduates, friends and faculty, and looked forward to what comes next.

The University conferred 58 degrees: 47 Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Painting + Printmaking and 5 Bachelor of Arts in Art History were awarded, as were 6 Master of Fine Arts in Design degrees.

The 17th Commencement brought the number of VCUarts Qatar alumni to 642.

Latin honors VCUarts Qatar’s students showed remarkable academic achievement with 48 percent of the undergraduate students awarded Latin honors: 11 graduated cum laude, 10 graduated magna cum laude and 6 graduated summa cum laude. Additionally, 5 graduated with University Honors.

University Honors program To graduate with the distinction of University Honors, students must maintain a 3.5 grade point average, and must submit a dossier that details and reflects on their undergraduate education prior to graduation. Five students, Al Jazi Khalid Al-Thani (B.F.A. ‘18), Amira Natsheh (B.F.A. ‘18), Asma Hasan (B.F.A. ‘18), Dimitri Salomão (B.A. ‘18) and Eman Makki (B.F.A. ‘18), were awarded this distinction.

AEB also recognizes outstanding junior students. The AEB Award for Creative Achievement in Graphic Design was presented to Graphic Design junior Hind Al-Kuwari, and the AEB Award for Creative Achievement in Interior Design was given to Interior Design junior Naurin Parambil.

“It is remarkable that VCUarts Qatar has educated and graduated nearly 650 young minds since establishing its campus in Qatar.

Having arts and design programs is of paramount significance as design permeates all aspects of our everyday lives. I would like to thank VCUarts Qatar for the role they have played over the past two decades to inject design and creativity into our society, and continuing our support to the university and its students is important to us,” Jaidah said.

”

“VCUarts Qatar has been a steady source of innovation and alternative ways of looking at the world and at ourselves, said Donald Baker, Ph.D., executive dean of VCUarts Qatar. “As we end our 20th year, we continue to be excited about the opportunities to cultivate a dynamic intercultural environment of research, learning and community engagement that provides the context for the holistic development of exemplary artists, designers and scholars to build vibrant communities and diversified economies.”

Arab Engineering Bureau’s (AEB) Group CEO and Chief Architect Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah, a long-time supporter and friend of VCUarts Qatar, presented four AEB awards. The AEB Award for Design Excellence in Graphic Design recognized Amira Natsheh (B.F.A. ‘18) and the AEB Award for Design Excellence in Interior Design went to Zeina Sleiman (B.F.A. ’18). The awards were instituted by Jaidah to encourage and assist graduating students as they start their careers as designers in Qatar and the region.

20th-anniversary iftars Two iftars, which took place during the Holy Month of Ramadan, concluded the University’s 20th-anniversary celebrations. In attendance at the first were faculty, staff and their families, with alumni.

“VCUarts Qatar is proud to mark this momentous milestone of cultivating the arts, igniting imagination and shaping the future.

I’m confident that we hold the key to releasing hybrid artists, enabling them to surmount all barriers. We look forward to another 20 years of endless possibilities,” said Dean Baker at the event.

The 20th-anniversary workers appreciation iftar took place at the Atrium in June and was attended by all the building workers, Dean Baker and his wife Heather, members of the facilities department and the students who set up the Chit Chat Chai Club, which was created to show their appreciation for the building workers who do so much for them. Dean Baker spoke to the workers and thanked them for their tremendous hard work and cheerful attitude. “VCUarts Qatar is proud to call them colleagues, friends and family,” he said.

“

The Dean of VCUarts Richmond and the Commencement’s Keynote Speaker, Shawn Brixey, addressed the students: “Be the pioneer of those discoveries. Harness the creative daring to make the world a more verdant, imaginative and better home to all of us.”

—Dean Shawn Brixey

VCUarts Qatar hosted a 20th-anniversary gala the same evening where His Excellency Sheikh Abdulla Bin Ali Al-Thani, Ph.D., advisor, Amiri Diwan, was the guest speaker. VIPs, faculty, staff, alumni, students and friends of VCUarts Qatar attended the occasion.

We have forged an extraordinary alliance built on a shared belief that art and creativity have unifying power.

17th Commencement and the gala In May, a grand day of events was held at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel as the University celebrated its 20th anniversary and 2018 Commencement ceremony.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP L // VCUarts Qatar’s 20th-anniversary gala, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. May 7, 2018.

Source: Zoom Photography // H.E. Sheikh Abdulla Bin Ali Al-Thani, Ph.D., advisor, Amiri Diwan, 20th-anniversary gala, 2018. // Class of 2018, VCUarts Qatar’s 17th Commencement ceremony, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, May 7, 2018. // Class of 2018, VCUarts Dean Shawn Brixey and Executive Dean Donald Baker, Ph.D, VCUarts Qatar’s 17th Commencement ceremony, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, May 7, 2018.

‫مجتمعنــا‬ The Community

6 // Work by student Naurin Parambil, “Gift Wrap Book” project, 2016.

Source: Nathan Davis

The VCUarts Qatar community—made up of highly talented students, alumni, faculty and staff—are deeply involved on campus and in the larger community, and bring the University to life. VCUarts Qatar brings together distinguished scholars, academic experts, accomplished researchers, published authors, recognized artists and designers, entrepreneurs, executives and more to shape the future of the University, the region and the world. ‫يتألف مجتمع جامعة فرجينيا كومنولث كلية فنون التصميم في‬ ‫قطر من الطلبة الموهوبين والخريجين وأعضاء الهيئة التدريسية‬ ‫ والذين ينخرطون وبشكل كبير في الحرم الجامعي‬،‫والموظفين‬ .‫ ويعملون على بث روح الحياة في الجامعة‬،‫وفي المجتمع األكبر‬ ‫فنحن مجتمع من العلماء المتميزين والخبراء األكاديميين والباحثين‬ ‫ومن مؤلفي الكتب ورجال األعمال والمدراء التنفيذيين والفنانين‬ ً ً ً ‫معا لتشكيل‬ ‫ نحن نبدع‬.‫ودوليا‬ ‫محليا‬ ‫والمصممين المعترف بهم‬ .‫ بلدنا ومنطقتنا وعالمنا‬،‫مستقبل جامعتنا‬

Alumni 2008–2018 ART HISTORY (B.A.) Aisha A. Al-Kuwari (2016) Alanood F. Alkuwari (2016) Aljohara K. Al-Thani (2017) Almaha M. Al-Buenain (2017) Alya K. Al-Obaidli (2018) Artemis A. Tziolis (2017) Dimitri Y. Salomao (2018) Hend A. Al-Muftah (2018) Hessa N. Bilal (2017) Hessa S. Al-Romaihi (2017) Hind K. Al-Jaidah (2018) Latifa M. Al-Kuwari (2017) Noor Hamade (2018) Noora A. Saed (2017) Reem I. Jaidah (2017) Reem M. Aboughazala (2016) Shareefa H. Darwish (2016) Tamadur T. Al-Shamlan (2016) Yomna A. Abdelzaher (2016)

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DESIGN (M.F.A.) Aamina Karim Malik (2014) Aisha N. Al-Sowaidi (2013) Al Hussein A. Wanas (2013) Alia M. Khairat (2013) Amin N. Matni (2014) Barbara C. Charrue (2016) Corby J. Elford (2013) Dana S. Rohani (2015) Elizabeth Yang S. Ju (2017) Esra Kazem (2013) Eva L. Stwodah (2016) Faisal M. Mohammad (2016) Hadeer S. Omar (2016) Hala A. Gabr (2017) Hazem Asif (2018) Imad G. Fadel (2014) Islam Shehab (2017) Lina H. MaHusain (2013) Malaz M. Elgemiabby (2015) Maryam Y. Al-Homaid (2014) Mona M. Makhlouf (2017) Nesma M. Khodier (2016) Noha Fouad (2016) Norah D. Alshammari (2018) Nourbano F. Al Hejazi (2018) Othman M. Khunji (2015) Patricia G. Duignan (2015) Rania M. Chamsine (2013) Robert Canak (2014) Samreen Zahra (2015) Shaikha M. Al-Mahmoud (2015) Sidra Zubairi (2018) Sultana Jesmine (2017) Wajiha Pervez (2017) Yasmeen N. Suleiman (2016)

FASHION DESIGN (B.F.A.) Ahmed A. Malalla (2015) Ahmed H. El-Sayed (2011) Aisha A. Al-Naemi (2017) Aisha M. Al-Darwish (2017) Aisha N. Al-Malki (2016) Aisha S. Al-Suwaidi (2016) Alanoud A. Al-Nuaimi (2014) Alexia C. Thomas (2014) Alia S. Alsowaidi (2018) Ameena Z. Bakaev (2018) Amna A. Almuhannadi (2017) Anfal M. Hamed Berier (2010) Basra K. Bashir (2016) Bekita M. Muwangua (2011) Dania A. Alqwasmi (2016) Dima A. Masoud (2010) Douha M. Al Gozali (2014) Dylon S. Adonis (2015) Elizabeth Yang S. Ju (2012) Eman A. Abdulla (2009) Esra Kazem (2010) Esra Sharab (2011) Farzana A. Abedin (2016) Fatima K. Maki (2017) Hissa I. Zainal (2011) Imelda B. Jurasova (2016) Joanna B. Dallimore (2010) Johana Nasreen (2018) Hisham A. Dawoud (2014) Khaltham D. Al-Kuwari (2011) Kholoud A. Al-Mosallam (2010) Khulood K. Al Busaidi (2016) Kiara J. Hodge (2016) Kinda M. Morshed (2015) Lama A. Sardar (2010) Ma Carla C. Mallari (2011) Maha G. Al-Kuwari (2014) Maha K. Al-Subaey (2014) Mahnoor M. Ansari (2016) Malak A. Al-Mahmoud (2010) Malia G. Bennett Henry (2015) Maria L. Munoz (2018) Marianne J. Bermejo (2014) Marion Sanguesa (2012) Marwa A. Al-Said (2015) Maryam M. Al-Fakhroo (2015) Maryam M. Al-Thani (2017) Melina G. De Moura (2009) Modawi M. Al-Ansary (2011) Mona Y. Alansari (2012) Munira L. Da Silva (2014) Nada K. Taha (2014) Najla H. Al Thani (2010) Nassimah Y. Alabduljalil (2010) Noha S. Adheir (2010) Noor A. Al-Thani (2014) Noor H. Al-Mannai (2016) Noor N. Al-Kaabi (2009) Noor R. Al-Thani (2015) Oulla Y. Al-Samarrae (2014) Raya A. Al-Meghaiseb (2016) Reem O. Al Hajeri (2011) Reem T. Al-Thani (2010) Roqaya H. Al-Thani (2009) Saadia Khabab Ahmed (2016) Sabrina Christensen (2010) Sacha D. Picard (2010)

Sahar Mari (2010) Samia Zar Mohammad (2016) Samyah Abou-Rahma (2017) Sara A. Al-Thani (2012) Sara N. Al Ali (2010) Sara S. Al-Abdulghani (2017) Sarah A. Wanas (2016) Selina S. Farooqui (2011) Shaikha K. Al-Sowaidi (2010) Sheikha A. Al-Khulaifi (2009) Sreehitha Saini (2018) Tamador J. Sultan (2015)

GRAPHIC DESIGN (B.F.A.) Abdul Rahman Anwar (2016) Abdulla A. Al-Emadi (2011) Abdulla M. Al Sada (2018) Ahlam S. Al-Jabri (2009) Ahmad M. Oustwani (2012) Ahood I. Al-Dafa (2012) Ahood S. Al-Taweel (2012) Aisha A. Al-Muzafer (2016) Aisha A. Al-Thani (2015) Aisha E. Al-Mannai (2013) Aisha H. Rasheed (2015) Aisha K. Al-Naama (2011) Aisha K. Al-Saad (2017) Aisha M. Bushawareb (2010) Al Hussein A. Wanas (2011) Ala’ Z. Bata (2017) Alanoud A. Al-Attiyah (2014) Alanoud S. Al-Sowaidi (2015) Aldana A. Al-Khater (2013) Aldana M. Alhajri (2016) Alisha R. Saiyed (2017) Alreem K. Al-Nassiri (2018) Ameera A. Makki (2011) Amena H. Al-Sheeb (2018) Amina M. Al-Darwish (2017) Amira Natsheh (2018) Amira A. Al-Dakraury (2011) Amreen Ahmedi (2018) Angela A. Guy (2010) Arwa G. Al-Sulaiti (2011) Asma Hasan (2018) Asma M. Al-Kuwari (2014) Asma M. Al-Sulaiti (2014) Asma T. Al Thani (2010) Asma Y. Al-Jaber (2009) Aysha K. Bujassoum (2016) Aysha W. Alsayed (2018) Barbara C. Charrue (2014) Bothina A. Al-Muftah (2009) Carisa P. Antariksa (2014) Catherine Fe C. Chiuco (2014) Chaiun Chung (2013) Daleen M. Al Khatib (2009) Dana A. Alhamad (2017) Dana Abdallah B. Chua (2016) Dania Jalees (2015) Davood M. Anwari (2013) Dina M. Rwaished (2012) Eman O. Al-Jailay (2017) Farah F. Al-Adawi (2014) Farah S. Al-Taweel (2013) Fatema A. Al-Doh (2011) Fatima A. Al Mansouri (2009) Fatima A. Mostafawi (2008) Fatima H. Al-Kharaz (2012) Fatima K. Al-Nasr (2014) Fatima M. Al-Maadeed (2009) Fatima R. Al-Naimi (2016) Fatima S. Al-Najar (2013) Fatima T. Alsalat (2014) Fatma J. Al-Jassim (2010) Felicity J. Ulmer (2014) Filza R. Khan (2015) Ghada A. Al-Khater (2012) Ghada M. Al-Suwaidi (2015) Hadeer S. Omar (2010) Hajar M. Al-Khayarin (2012)

Hala M. Hamad (2015) Hamda A. Al-Kuwari (2014) Hamza M. Abdel’al (2011) Haneen Al Sharif (2012) Hanin N. Bader (2012) Hazem Asif (2016) Hend M. Aleidan (2009) Hessa H. Al-Hitmi (2018) Hessah J. Al-Thani (2013) Hissa H. Al-Mulla (2009) Iman H. Meky (2018) Issra K. Osman (2009) Jawaher A. Al-Thani (2012) Jawaher M. Al-Hajri (2016) Kayane K. Kouzoujian (2009) Khadija K. Safri (2011) Kholoud B. Al Sada (2010) Leila A. Natsheh (2013) Lolwa A. Al-Khater (2014) Lolwa H. Jamal (2014) Lolwa J. Al-Mohannadi (2015) Lolwa M. Al-Khater (2012) Mack A. Cortel (2015) Maeda S. Al-Haidar (2015) Maha A. Al-Darwish (2012) Maha K. Al-Khater (2014) Maha M. Akl (2016) Maha M. Fakhro (2011) Mahmoud M. Abbas (2011) Mahmoud Masoud (2018) Malak A. Elzahed (2016) Manar A. Hashim (2017) Maram H. Al-Abdulla (2015) Mariam A. Gasan (2010) Mariam S. Al-Jufairi (2015) Maryam A. Al Kaabi (2014) Maryam A. Al-Khalifa (2012) Maryam E. Al-Neama (2012) Maryam I. Abdulrahman (2014) Maryam I. Almalki (2018) Maryam J. Al-Meraikhi (2016) Maryam K. Al-Atteyah (2012) Maryam M. Al-Essa (2013) Maryam M. Al Kuwari (2010) Maryam M. Al-Thani (2013) Maryam Y. Al-Homaid (2010) Maryam Y. Khalil Abdelsadig (2018) Mashaer S. Alyaarabi (2011) Maya I. Abusharar (2010) Mayasa V. Agha (2016) Miriam Magdy K. Greiss (2010) Mohammad J. Jawad (2015) Mohammed A. Al Masri (2013) Mona E. Al-Sulaiti (2015) Mooza K. Al-Suwaidi (2013) Moza K. Al-Nasr (2016) Moza M. Al-Suwaidi (2014) Moza N. Al-Thani (2009) Muna M. Al-Anssari (2013) Muna M. Al-Majid (2016) Muneera M. Al-Khulaifi (2015) Muneera A. Al-Obaidan (2018) Nabiila N. Lubay (2016) Nada M. Ezat Hammada (2013) Nada N. Al Saadi (2009) Najla A. Al Kuwari (2011) Najla H. Al-Khalifa (2014) Nawar A. Al-Mutlaq (2011)

Nayla M. Jaida (2009) Noof A. Al-Buainain (2016) Noof E. Al-Mohannadi (2015) Noof J. Al-Binali (2015) Noof K. Heidous (2018) Noof S. Al-Obaidli (2018) Noor A. Al-Thani (2015) Noor M. Al-Naemi (2013) Noor S. Al-Kharaan (2018) Noora A. Alfadala (2016) Noora A. Al-Muftah (2010) Noora H. Al-Zaini (2016) Noora M. Al-Khulaifi (2012) Noora N. Melhim (2015) Nour M. Hamoui (2012) Rabeya Khatoon (2017) Ramna D. Ghani (2011) Rana A. A. R. (2008) Rana A. Mohamed (2013) Rana A. Selo (2009) Rawdha A. Al-Thani (2014) Riam S. Ghani (2010) Rouda K. Al-Thani (2010) Roula B. Elshazly (2013) Ruda I. Zainal (2009) Sahwa A. Elnakhly (2010) Salma M. Hamouda (2015) Sanaa H. Rahman (2011) Sara Ebrik (2016) Sara A. Al-Ishaq (2010) Sara A. Al-Kuwari (2009) Sara A. Al-Kuwari (2014) Sara N. Qubrosi (2010) Sarah Husni (2010) Shahad Y. Al-Malki (2016) Sheikah E. Alshaihah (2015) Siham A. Al Zadjali (2009) Tala R. Agha (2009) Tamader E. Al-Sulaiti (2009) Tariq U. Spence (2013) Wadha A. Al-Thani (2017) Wafa H. Al Lawati (2014) Wafaa A. Al-Saffar (2011) Wanoun Yaqoob (2015) Wurood I. Azzam (2016) Yafea A. Alyafei (2012) Yara A. Al-Muftah (2016) Zaina A. Abudayeh (2012)

INTERIOR DESIGN (B.F.A.) Abdulla F. Al-Gosaibi (2011) Abdulla M. Al-Ahmad (2012) Abeer K. Al Kubaisi (2010) Abir A. Zakzok (2016) Adelya Ekermen (2015) Aisha A. Almohannadi (2017) Aisha K. Al-Thani (2014) Aisha M. Al-Naama (2015) Aisha M. Al-Nasr (2009) Aisha N. Khalil (2013) Al Anood S. Al Busaidi (2012) Alanood F. Almahamadi (2013) Alanood N. Al-Thani (2010) Alanoud A. Al-Nuaimi (2011) Aldana A. Al-Malki (2010) Alexandra E. Windrum (2012) Aljazi K. Al-Thani (2018) Almaha K. Alshaibi (2013) Amani L. Abbarah (2014) Amelie A. Beicken (2015) Amina A. Fakhroo (2018) Amna J. Al-Mannai (2014) Amna M. Darwish (2012) Angela Awada (2018) Arwa K. Al-Sahouti (2018) Arwa K. Safri (2015) Asma Ul Hosna (2015) Asmaa B. Darwish (2018) Asmaa J. Al-Naimi (2017) Aysha A. Al-Saai (2010) Aysha A. Al-Solaitti (2016) Bashayer H. Al-Mohannadi (2015) Bashayer H. Al-Naimi (2016) Begum N. Yigit (2017) Buthayna A. Al-Thawadi (2010) Chalifa C. Anindita (2017) Cynthia A. Ibrahim Batir (2009) Dana H. Ahmed (2018) Dana H. El Masri (2016) Dana M. El Ladki (2015) Dana R. Elhaj Ahmad (2011) Danh R. Barghouti (2017) Dhika R. Khaira (2015) Dima A. Masoud (2009) Duha A. Al-Subaey (2015) Elba G. Leon (2010) Elena Gyulay (2017) Eman F. Al-Thani (2012) Erin J. Gibson (2012) Esra H. Abduljawad (2010) Faesal K. Alagala (2017) Fahad A. Al-Kuwari (2014) Farah M. Al-Qadi (2018) Farah S. Zamri (2015) Fareeha Zakri (2013) Farheen Shamera (2013) Farida Grewal (2009) Farzana Hoque (2013) Fatema N. Islam (2014) Fathima Z. Zahir (2018) Fatima K. Al-Khater (2009) Fatima M. Al-Sada (2012) Fatima N. Alzaini (2018) Fatima S. Al-Maleki (2014) Fatima S. Al-Mass (2013) Fatima T. Al-Hail (2014) Fatima Y. Mousa Zainal (2011)

Fatma A. Al-Remaihi (2010) Fatma H. Cilsal (2011) Fitrya Amanda (2017) Geetha Rajeswar (2015) Ghada A. Al-Shehab (2017) Ghadeer M. Abunada (2014) Gihad W. Ataalla (2017) Hala A. Alzawaydeh (2018) Hala H. Akkawi (2009) Hamean H. Al-Noaimi (2018) Haneen Ourfali (2011) Hanouf M. Al-Mana (2009) Haya H. Abdelmajeed (2017) Heba M. Khalil (2015) Hebatalla A. Abdelgawad (2011) Hessah K. Al-Thani (2009) Hissa A. Alhail (2018) Hissa M. Al-Muhannadi (2011) Hissa S. Bujaloof (2016) Iman N. Al Hashar (2011) Imen Ibala (2013) Jazmine A. Sheikh (2011) Jessica Hammam (2018) Kaisha M. Bickley (2016) Kaltham A. Alkuwari (2017) Khaled A. Abdelmoty (2017) Khaoula I. Al-Assmakh (2011) Kholoud A. Al-Emadi (2014) Lala S. Kabirian (2011) Lokugonaduwage S. Perera (2016) Maha A. Al-Thani (2009) Maha M. Al-Kuwari (2012) Maha S. Mubarak (2018) Maham Khalid (2012) Majdulin M. Nasrallah (2017) Mariam H. Sallam (2011) Mariam M. Al Sarraj (2011) Marika J. Mascarenhas (2017) Mario M. Bermejo (2016) Marsya K. Ariffin (2017) Maryam A. Al-Siddiqi (2009) Maryam F. Al-Suwaidi (2013) Meriem Aiouna (2015) Meyyan S. Al Said (2012) Munera N. Fakhroo (2015) Munira M. Al Tamemi (2010) Nada Ibrahim (2018) Nada M. Hamad (2009) Nada R. Al-Kharashi (2017) Najd J. Al-Mesned (2015) Najoud A. Al-Khal (2016) Nasser A. Al-Kubaisi (2014) Natalie E. Touma (2009) Natasha L. Bahri (2014) Natasha N. Sturko (2011) Noha O. Fahmy (2015) Noor A. Al-Thani (2009) Noor H. Aloraidi (2013) Noor H. Al-Safi (2012) Noor M. Al-Sulaiti (2008) Noor M. Al-Thani (2011) Noora A. Al-Sulaiti (2014) Norhan A. Mohamed (2015) Nour M. Abu Ghazaleh (2012) Nour T. Elzayat (2018) Noura Abdulsalam (2009) Nourhan A. Bulble (2013) Omaima Saad (2015)

Omar M. Ezzeldeen (2015) Rabah A. El Sawi (2011) Rachel Al Namroud (2012) Rana M. Abdul Majeed (2012) Rana M. Rwaished (2011) Rawan Abou-Zant (2014) Rebecca S. Guy (2012) Reem M. Zirie (2011) Reem N. Aladham (2015) Sahar M. Ansari (2017) Sali N. Qubrosi (2009) Sally A. Ghazy (2017) Samira N. Abbas (2014) Samreen Zahra (2009) Sara A. Al-Ansari (2009) Sara A. Al-Emadi (2013) Sara A. Al-Kuwari (2014) Sara A. Al-Muftah (2018) Sara A. Almulla (2011) Sara A. Al-Saygh (2018) Sara F. Al-Mushairi (2018) Sara F. Bahzad (2014) Sara H. Mashhadi (2018) Sarah Khider (2015) Sarah B. Ben Abdallah (2017) Shaikha K. Al-Sulaiti (2009) Shaikha S. Al-Sowaidi (2013) Sharefa Al-Baker (2011) Sherin H. Karawia (2016) Shweta Dey (2013) Sozan M. Monim Morsi (2010) Thuraya K. Al Omar (2016) Walaa Almuhateeb (2013) Wdyaan H. Al-Malki (2014) Weam M. Afify (2016) Yasmeen G. Khan (2015) Yasmeen N. Suleiman (2011) Yomna M. Eltouny (2017) Yousra M. Al-Dabhani (2013) Zarmina Q. Ikramullah (2011) Zeena M. Zaghmout (2011) Zeina Sleiman (2018) Zlatan Pejdah (2012)

PAINTING + PRINTMAKING (B.F.A.) Abdulla N. Al-Kuwari (2014) Afnan I. Al-Mulla (2017) Ahmad Al Jutairi (2014) Aisha S. Al Fadhala (2017) Alanood A. Al-Thani (2013) Almaha M. Al-Kawari (2015) Ayaz Abdur Rauf (2016) Diego A. Mendoza Sanchez (2014) Eiman M. Al-Mireekhi (2014) Emelina L. Soares (2015) Fatima A. Mohammed (2016) Fatma E. Marei Sayed (2016) Habeeb M. Hussain Buftaim (2016) Hana S. Al-Saadi (2015) Hissa S. Al-Mohannadi (2014) Israa Hashmi (2014) Lolwa M. Alsolaiti (2018) Maha K. Almaslamani (2017) Maryam Alameri (2018) Nagiya Moideen (2017) Nasser A. Al-Naama (2014) Noof K. Al-Theyab (2018) Noor H. Al Thani (2017) Nour A. Elbasuni (2018) Rouda A. Al Khoori (2018) Roudha I. Al-Nassr (2015) Salma A. Hassaan (2015) Sara A. Al-Fadaaq (2018) Sara K. Al-Buainain (2017) Sara N. Al-Salem (2014) Se Hee Jang (2017) Shouq M. Al-Mana (2017) Shurooq A. Al-Jalabi (2017) Sumam I. Azzam (2015) Yasmen A. Al-Abdulla (2014) Yousuf F. Bahzad (2017)

Total enrollment and graduation by degree program and academic year

Enrolled

Graduated

Unknown

TOTAL

312

124

116

141

122

181

158

210

193

181

244

231

223

282

278

259

75 35

25

11

14

11

41

34

31

47

47

43

70

58

44

38

340

339

328

70

58

Graphic Design 66

35 11

134 // 135

40

45

73

69

63

67

68

67

64

67

61

50

20

22

14

8

19

19

20

16

21

17

60

51

21

21

78

71

16

12

Interior Design

40

37

24

34

42

51

12

50

13

3

69

58

67

18

7

67

61

60

23

19

11

62

57

21

15

62

56

21

15

8

63

61

20

Fashion Design

4

6

8

9

9

8

12

13

4

20 17

19

17 5

4

15

8

4

98–99

99–00

00–01

01–02

02–03

03–04

04–05

05–06

06–07

07–08

08–09

09–10

10–11

35

28

16

13

15

11–12

12–13

21

27 14

4

2

0

Painting + Printmaking

6

33

26

22

26

21 7

6

13–14

14–15

24 5

15–16

24

22 5

24 11

16–17

20 6

17–18

18–19

Art History 73

65

56 43 23

15

6

8

6

5

M.F.A. in Design

16

10

5

16

6

13

6

12

6

14

7

12

4

14

4

14

Total enrollment by gender and nationality Gender Female

Male

124

116

158

141

122

181

208

201

198

188

181

253

243

229

215

319

317

304

291

75 35 5

12

22

23

29

35

30

29

24

21

Nationality Qatari

184

Other

102

95

95

61 28

7

14

22

21

27

123

114

103

38

44

111

109 58

72

82

108102

113110

121 110

Nationalities represented

7

8

98–99

99–00

124120

42

12

12

13

00–01

01–02

02–03

19

19

03–04

04–05

23

05–06

25

26

06–07

07–08

30

31

08–09

09–10

131128

44

150

128

43

11–12

12–13

13–14

210

156 126

40

34

10–11

200

22

14–15

128

128

129

38

38

38

15–16

16–17

17–18

21

208

132

36

18–19

Faculty and Staff 1998–2018 OFFICE OF THE DEAN Donald Baker, Ph.D. Isabel Michelle Latayan Junita Patrick ADMINISTRATION Andrew Mascari ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Fikria El Kaouakibi Isabelle St-Louis Jessica Hammam Patty Paine ACADEMIC CAREER AND ADVISING Noor Hussain Suleiman AlOraidi Zeyad Yousef Bateiha

136 // 137

ART FOUNDATION Amira Natsheh Angela Awada Carmina Celeridad Dana El Ladki Gihad Ataalla Hala Alzawaydeh Jesse Payne Maysaa Al-Mumin Nathan Davis Nourbano Feras Alhejazi Rachel Leah Cohn Richard Blackwell Ryan Browning Shankar Padmanabhan Simone Muscolino ART HISTORY Aisha Al-Muftah Debra Hanson, Ph.D. Elena Athwal Holiday Powers, Ph.D. Jochen Sokoly, Ph.D. Kholoud Sakbani Radha Dalal, Ph.D. Rebecca David Reem Mohamed Aboughazala Sean Roberts, Ph.D. BOOKSTORE Haroon Liaqat Ali Ibrahim Abdul Ghafoor Imee Acosta COMMUNICATIONS Haya Sayel Daher Mike Gallagher Moza Al-Suwaidi Nadia Abu Dayeh Rasha Alkasab Sara J. Shaaban ENROLLMENT AND REGISTRATION SERVICES Greet Provoost Sylvia D’Souza

FACILITIES AND SAFETY Andrea Cecetka Dana S. Rohani Liaqat Hyder Ali Lourdes Mangune Michael John Arrighi Samar Mohamed FASHION DESIGN Abdul Cader Ali Khan Donald Earley Elizabeth Yang Soon Ju Esther Alice De Veuve Federica Visani Jo Momean Kimberly Guthrie Nayla Al-Mulla Roda Al Marzouqi Sonali Raman Stela Colaleo FINANCE Ana Ilao Effie Sevillano Malakah Akbar Balidaei Shaduli Thattan Valappil MASTER OF FINE ARTS Diane Derr Marco Bruno Rab McClure Rebecca David Thomas Modeen, Ph.D. GRAPHIC DESIGN Basma Hamdy Denielle Emans Law Alsobrook Leland Hill Levi Hammett Mahmoud Mazen Abbas Maryam Al-Homaid Michael Hersrud Peter Martin HUMAN RESOURCES Archana Kumar Ashraf Mowafi Desiree Anne Lopez Eman Ali Linda Carter Lolyta Poniman Muhammad Ali Abdulghafoor INTERIOR DESIGN Cherif Amor, Ph.D. Haithem A. El-Hammali, Ph.D. Johan Granberg, Ph.D. Li Han Liam Colquhoun Maja Kinnemark Marwa Abdelmonem Marynol Amat Matthew Holmes-Dallimore Mohammad Suleiman

LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES Anna Nigmatulina Byrad Yyelland, Ph.D. Diane G. Woodcock Jesse Ulmer, Ph.D. Jörg Matthias Determann, Ph.D. Khaled Saoud, Ph.D. Khawla Mustafa Husni Kittaneh Marynol Amat Robert Bianchi, Ph.D. Robin Fetherston Rola Alsoubaihi Ryad Ahmad Ghanam, Ph.D. Sadia Mir Summer Bateiha, Ph.D. LIBRARY Abdul Rahman Anwar Amy Andres Annabel Armstrong-Clarke Beena Noorudeen Iman Mazhar Jacqulyn Williams Liya Louis Michael Wirtz Noha Fouad Roshni Baker Wanoun Yaqoob Yasmeen Suleiman PAINTING + PRINTMAKING Abdul Azim Al-Ghussein Asmaa Al-Issa Carmina Celeridad Fatma Elzahraa Mariey George Awde Michael Perrone Rhys Himsworth Roberta Fleming Jeffries Zachary Stensen QATAR SUPPORT OFFICE Jessica Gaines Jocelyn Vinson Mirella Smith RECRUITMENT AND ADMISSIONS Katherine L. Mangum Fatima Al-Kharaz Mona Mohammad Balidaei Othman Khunji STUDENT AFFAIRS Aysha AlKooheji Jumana Al-Abdi Karima Ilila LaKisha Tillman Laura Green Nancy Ahmed Sarah Faheem Valerie Jeremijenko, Ph.D. STRATEGIC COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Hissa Al-Garni Jean Flanders Margarita Zuniga

TECHNOLOGY SERVICES George Paul Jeromie De Leon Mariam Wissa Marlon Villones Michael Aguda Mirza Baig Mona Youssef Kassem Ralston Pereira Sherin Hesham Karawia Shiny Muhammad Sisenato Ocampo Yousef Al-Awadi THE WRITING CENTER Jean Hodges Neihan Yaqoob Nicole Abiad FACULTY/STAFF 1998–2018 Aaron Street (2004–2005) Abdulrazak Grady (2008–2009) Abeer Zakzouk (2018) Ahmad Zaghmout (2006–2010) Ahmad Oustwani (2012–2017) Aida Hashim (2005–2008) Aisha Majid Al-Kuwari (2011–2015) Ajeetha Narayan (2003–2008) Akel Kahera, Ph.D. (2015–2018) Alberto Lacovoni (2015–2016) Alexina Fagan (1998–2000) Alfred Baucom (2001–2002) Alhussein Ahmed (2012–2014) Allan Hing (1999–2011) Allyson Vanstone (2007–2015) Alya Elazab (2000–2014) Amanda Bate (2016–2017) Amani Abbarah (2012) Ambily Augustine (2016) Amer Kelzeih, Ph.D. (2001) Amin Matni (2008–2011) Ammar Baig (2011–2017) Amna Raeisi (1999–2010) Amy Powers Boyes (2014) Anders Linde-Laursen (2006–2007) Angela Quinn (2012) Ann Harmon (2000–2001) Annette Wendling-Willeke (2011–2017) Artemis Tizioli (2017–2018) Ashley Burton (2011–2017) Austin Aviles (2017–2018) Babatunde Lawal (2015) Balal Khan (2009–2016) Barbara Spies (1998–2000) Basra Bashir (2011) Bathsheba Pryzgocki (2003–2004) Ben Hannam (2003–2006) Benjamin Jurgensen (2010–2013) Berdita Ocenar (2011–2012) Betsy McKenney (2000–2008) Bibi Baloyra (2015) Blair Aboutaleb (2012–2014) Brendan Doherty (2012–2014) Brian Geary (2003–2009) Brian Harris (2009–2012) Caitlin Doherty (2011–2015) Can Atilla Ikram (2008–2010) Carmen Innocenti, Ph.D. (2011–2013)

Carol Hansen (2011–2015) Carolina Fernandex (2016–2017) Carolyn Freeman (2009–2013) Catherine Fe Chiuco (2014–2015) Catherine Runner (2006–2007) Catherine Turner (2007–2009) Chadya Rustom (2001–2008) Charlene Jones (2008–2017) Charles Bleick, Ph.D. (2004–2009) Christina England (2006–2007) Christina Lindholm (2002–2007) Christine Issa (2001–2006) Christine Tien Wang (2013–2014) Christopher Gentile (2000–2002) Clare Elkanj (2016) Constantin Boym (2010–2012) Corby Elford (2013–2014) Cosima Storz (2011–2012) Craig Anz (2016–2017) Daisy Pereira (2016–2017) Dana Barghouti (2015) Dana Beth (2003–2010) Dana El Ahdab (2012–2014, 2016) Dania Khaled (2007–2009) David Ayersman (2004–2007) David Evans Withers (2016–2017) David Rodgers (2000–2001) Della Reams (2008–2015) Diane Mikhael (2008–2015) Dima Salameh (2003–2011) Dina Bangdel (2012–2017) Donald Crow (2002–2004, 2013) Donna Duffett (2004–2010) Dorothy Smit (2002–2006) Dottie Milligan, Ph.D. (2005–2007) Dwight David Rose (2001–2008) Elhassan Wanas (2013) Ellora Coupe (2015) Emelina Soares (2015) Emilie Burnham (2007–2010) Emily Stokes (2012–2013) Erik Brandt (2005–2007) Erik Markus Elblaus (2008–2013) Eunice Dickerson (2004–2015) Ezra Kazem (2011–2013) Fahad Al Obaidly (2012–2013) Faranak Davar (2011–2012) Fareeha Zakri (2013–2018) Farida Ali Khan (2008–2009) Fatima Al-Darwish (2006–2008) Fatima Nazha (2010–2012) Fatma Abdulla Al-Remaihi (2016) Fatma Al Moghunni (2006–2009) Fessal Eleglah (2015) Fouad Kraishan (2005) Gabrielle Kiame (2006–2008) Gail Hans Calaranan (2010) Gail Hunger (1999–2001) Gary Huff (2012–2017) Ghada Gholam, Ph.D. (1999–2001) Ghaida Al-Sawalha (2016) Gina Hunt (2015–2016) Hala Hamad (2015–2017) Halim Choueiry (2004–2008) Hallema Sharif (2016–2018) Hamoda Youssef (2015, 2017–2018) Hamzeh Duhaini (2009–2010) Haneen Al Sharif (2012–2015)

Hanin Bader (2012) Hasan Nour El Dine (2013) Hawa Stwodah (2006–2009) Heba Ali Mohammed (2008) Heidi Jack (2000–2001) Hemalathaa Subramanian (2011–2012) Hend Zainal (2006–2009) Hisham Dawoud (2012) Ibrahim Abuhamda (2011) Imad Fadel (2010–2012) Imen Ibala (2013–2014) John Philip Reuer (2004–2007) Jacqueline O’Rourke (2000–2001) Jacqueline Woodworth (2006–2012) Jameka Bullock (2009) James Deveney, Ph.D. (2012–2014) James Farmer (2009–2010) James McPherson (2014–2015) James Musselman (2011) James Parham (2008–2018) Jared McCormick (2015) Jeanine Hill (2013–2014) Jeff Lodge (2006–2009) Jenina Yong (2013–2018) Jennifer Mock (2009–2011) Jessica Kafka (2007–2010) Joachim Gierlichs (2009) Joan Kalyan-Curtis (2000–2002) Joanna Milaszius-Dallimore (2012–2017) John Dixon (2002–2003) John Eckert (2002–2005) John Guthmiller, Ph.D. (2011–2013) John Hubenthal (1998–1999) John Judd Burrow (2014) John Geldart (2004–2009) John Petrie (2004–2007) John Schmeelk, Ph.D. (2001–2013) Jordan Gushwa (2009–2014) Jordan Momani (2003–2006) Kadrya Ahmed, Ph.D. (2001–2003) Kamiliya Abu Rub (2011) Karen Reid (2004–2007) Karl Burkheimer (2001–2005) Kathleen Ferguson-Huntington (2000–2012) Kathleen Franck (1999–2004) Kathryn Shillito (2013–2014) Kathy Kilpatrick (2005–2009) Kelley Beaverford (2001–2003) Kelley Lowe (2013–2014) Kenneth Kearney (2008–2012) Kevin Dunn (2004–2008) Kevin Sellers (2005–2008) Kevin Woolley, Ph.D. (2006–2016) Kipp Greene (2002–2010) Kiran Kalsi (2006–2007) Kristen Conover (2012–2013) Kristina Wong-Davis (2011) Kristyan Sarkis (2009) Lala Kabirian (2012–2013) Lama Abu Dheays (2011–2013) Lamia Mansour (2012–2014) Laura Barlow (2016) Lauren Maas (2009–2013, 2015) Lauren O’Brien (2005–2008) Lauren Pakradooni (2011–2012) Laurence Koltys (2005–2007) Leah Long, Ph.D. (2013–2017)

Leekyung Kang (2017–2018) Lejla Niksic (2007–2010) Lesley Gray (2009–2013) Leslie Forehand (2012–2014) Lina Mahusain (2012) Lina Lafi (1997–2000) Linda Smyth-Turczyn (2006–2013) Line Christiansen (2009–2016) Lisa Clayton (1999–2010) Lolwa Abdulla (2005–2015) Lore Ann Guilmartin, Ph.D. (2012–2015) Lynette Andreason (2014–2015) Lynn Nelson (2006–2008) Magdalena Rostron (2009) Maha Kassab (2010) Mahassen Rifaat (2000–2003) Mahmoud Abdel Aziz (2008–2016) Mai Alnagar (2015) Maiken Sparshot (2017–2018) Majdoleen Till (1998–2004) Marcia Hijab (1999–2000) Margaret Petrie (1998–1999) Margaret Urban (2005–2006) Marguerite Hernandez, Ph.D. (2015–2017) Maria Ferrer (2008–2010) Maria Palumbo (2016) Maria Stabio (2012–2013) Marianne Bermejo (2014–2016) Mario Mark Bermejo (2016–2017) Martha Lewis (2001–2005) Marwa Gafar Ahmed (2008–2012) Marwa Maziad (2009–2010) Mary Denney (2011) Mary McLaughlin (2000–2007) Maryam Al Beshri (2005–2007) Matthew Woolman (2009–2011) Maya Saikali (2008–2010) Mayme Donsker (2012–2013) Mehreen Qazafi (2005–2006) Mehrnoosh Rahimi (2006–2009) Meike Kaan (2010–2016) Melanie McClintock (2009–2011, 2015–2016) Meriem Aiouna (2015) Michael Beauchamp (2012) Michael Telafici (2011) Michele Domenech (2003–2005) Miriam Achenbach (2010–2011) Miriam Ewers (2011–2012, 2014–2015) Miriam Greiss (2010) Moamer Qazafi (2005–2011) Modesty St John (2009–2010, 2012–2013) Mohamad Hamady (2007) Mohamed Ibrahim (2012, 2015) Mohamed Iprahim (2015–2016) Mohammad Jawad (2016–2017) Mohammad Suleiman (2014) Mohammed Aishemmari (2009–2010) Mohanalakshmi Rajakumar (2011–2015) Molly McHarg, Ph.D. (2010–2015) Mona Abdulla (2002–2004) Mona Makhlouf (2015–2016) Monica Mansilla (2016) Monique Fouquet, Ph.D. (2013–2014) Moustafa Abuelnass (2016) Muneera Spence (2007–2016) Muqeem Khan (2005–2010)

Nada Al Saadi (2009–2010) Nada Chammas (2007–2008) Nada Hamad (2013) Nadia Khan (2008–2011) Najla Al Khalifa (2014–2015) Nancy Fawley (2004–2011) Nancy Scott (1999–2000) Narita Mattock (2006–2015) Nastassja Swift (2015–2016) Natalie Bailey (2003–2009) Natasha Ann Dempster (2016) Nathalie Roy (2014–2015) Nesma Khodier (2016) Nimi Abraham (2009–2015) Nisha Ramachandran (2011) Noel Knille (2008–2011) Noor Jassim Al Thani (2006–2009) Noora Thani Al-Thani (2009) Omaima Abdalla (2016) Pamela Burroughs (2004–2011) Paolo Almeida (2005–2007) Paolo Cardini (2011–2014) Pascale Lemelin (2016) Patricia Duigan (2012–2016) Paul Petrie (1998–2002, 2003–2005, 2014–2015) Pegah Simi (2008–2010) Perihan Abdelwahab (2016–2017) Peter Albano (2010–2011) Peter Chomowicz (2009–2015) Peter Martin, Ph.D. (2002–2003) Peter Tascarella (2001–2003) Peter Vallentyne (2002–2003) Phaedra Al Majid (2004–2005) Pornprapha Phatanateacha (2002–2017) Precious Lovell (2000–2007) Priya D’Souza (2009–2014) Raad Hummadi (1999–2004) Rabab Abdulla (2016–2017) Radwan Fermawi (2000–2001) Raea West-Banks (2015) Rami Hatoum (2004–2007) Rana Mohamed (2016) Randall Williams (2001–2006) Reem Al Hajri (2011–2012) Reem Al Sharif (2011) Reem Alkheder (2013) Reem Aboughazala (2018) Reema Jawhari (2003) Reham Fouda (2012) Renira Gambarato (2009–2010) Richard Harris (2003–2007) Richard Lombard (2010–2016) Rikke Taylor (2010–2011) River Montijo (2007–2014) Robert Canak (2010) Rodney Hall (2011–2013) Roger Griffiths (2011–2015) Roman Turczyn (2009–2014) Roqaya Al Thani (2009–2011) Rosmin Kaunnathottathil (2004) Roula El Khoury (2011) Ruda Zainal (2008–2009) Ruth Beals (2001–2008) Ruth Bolduan (2011–2013) Ryan Rasmussen (2013–2014) Sabina Kunju (2003–2004) Sage Lewis (2014–2015)

Saher Naqvi (2006–2008) Saida Hassan (2009) Saied Farisi (2010–2012) Sakina Hassam (2002–2011) Salina Akhtar (2013–2016) Sally Van Gorder (2002–2003, 2004–2007) Samah Nassar (2012) Sami Hajaig (2008) Samia Touati Dietz (2010) Samira Abbas (2011, 2014, 2015) Sana Juma Al Buainain (2005–2011) Sandra Bell Wilkins (1999–2018) Sandra Lynn Dold (2014–2015) Sanjana Saleem (2016–2017) Sarah Lauck (2011–2013) Sarah Meyer (2004–2005) Sarah Sabban (2014–2015) Sawsan Tannous (2009–2010) Selina Farooqui (2012) Seth William Ganz (2007–2008) Shaukat Saeed (2014–2016) Shawn Noroian (2003–2005) Shefa Nada (2005–2008) Sherry Blankenship (2003–2009) Shriya Sridharan (2011) Simon Mhanna (2011–2012) Smita Aloni (2011) Sonia Tayyeb (2011) Sonya Ashour (2001) Sterling Daniel (2013–2017) Steven Hoskins (2003–2004) Sulafa Abou Samra (2016) Sumam Azzam (2016–2017) Susan Cooke Ugurlu, Ph.D. (2010–2013) Susan O’Shea (2015–2017) Suzanne Lesley Page (2011–2012) Syed Sardar (2016–2017) Tahani Sabbagh (1999–2002) Tamara Al Abdi (2017) Tamara Carter (2006–2009) Tammi Moe (2004–2013) Tanya Kane (2013–2016) Teresa MacGregor (2011–2012) Terry Monaco (2005–2009) Thomas Adair (1998–2000) Tiffany Schureman (2013–2017) Timothy De Voe (2014–2015) Timothy Wilkerson (2007–2009) Tina Mogensen (2013) Titus Nemeth (2007–2008) Todd Vanderheyden (2004–2006) Treena Crochet (2003–2006) Tyrone Wilkins (2004–2011) Vibhuti Patel (2007) Victoria Bleick (2004–2013) Vreni Castillo (2011–2012) Wajiha Pervez (2015–2018) Waqas Farid (2015) Widad Anabtawi (2010–2012) Wijdan Basit, Ph.D. (1998–1999) William Barker (2004–2007) William McGee (2007–2012) Yarrow Nu’man (2016–2018) Yasmeen Jadoon (2015–2016) Yaxpal Lacy (1998–2001) Youssif Al Khatib (2009–2011) Yousuf Yaqoob Al Obaidly (2013)

Zahra Samreen (2010–2011, 2014–2015) Zaina Salameh (2012) Zainab Al Sulaiman (2006–2010) Zaineb Yasser (2009–2012) Zeina Hamdy (2014) Zlatan Pejdah (2010–2011) Zoe Hawk (2011–2017) Zovik Aboyan (2009)

Research Accomplishments 2008–2018

138 // 139

Poems 78 poems published in 41 journals.

Presentations 125 presentations at 97 different conferences.

JOURNALS (SELECTED) // AMP: Journal of Digital Literature // Blackbird: A Journal of Literature and the Arts // Bombay Gin // Canary // Comstock Review // Copperfield Review // DIAGRAM // Geometric Aljamia: A Cultural Transliteration // Georgetown Review // Hermeneutic Chaos Literary Journal // La.Lit: A Literary Magazine // Missing Slate // Muse/A Journal // Off the Coast // Our Place: Writings about the Earth // Petite Hound Press // Plainsongs // Poecology // Revolution House // Southern Women’s Review // Streetlight Magazine // Sundress Publications // The Inflectionist Review // The Louisville Review // The Wayfarer: A Journal of Contemplative Literature // Thrush Poetry Journal // Unlost Journal // Vayavya // Waxwing // Written River: A Journal of Eco-Poetics

CONFERENCES // Abu Dhabi International Book Fair // Abu Dhabi University Annual International Conference // AIGA Design Education Conference // Alliance for Art in Research Universities // American Library Association // Annual Southwest Regional Conference // Archiving South Asia: Conference on South Asian Art // ARCHTHEO // Art in Architecture/Architecture in Art Conference // Art Libraries Society of North America // Art Libraries Society of the UK and Ireland // Art Present Symposium/FABRICA // Arts of the Revolution Conference // Asia Pacific Corpus Linguistics Conference // Asian Conference on Society, Education and Technology // Association of College and Research Libraries // Australian Library and Information Association // AWP Writing Conference // BAAL Conference // British Society for the History of Science Annual Conference // Conference on Transportation and Mobility on Intangible Borders // Consciousness Reframed Conference // Cumulus Conference // Design Education Symposium // DI-EGY Festival // Digital Africa Conference on the Post-Digital Organic // Education for the Future: A Conference on Informal Learning in Museums and Cultural Institutions // Environmental Design Research Association Conference // Environmental Design Research Conference // European Conference on Information Literacy // Fak’ugesi Digital African Arts Conference // Fashion: Then & Now Conference // Feminist Art History Conference // Future of Medical Humanities Conference // Global Conference of Inter-Disciplinary.Net // Great Writing: The International Creative Writing Conference // Havana Biennale // Henley School of Business Annual Research Symposium // Himalayan Studies Conference // Hope & Happiness Combined Global Conference // Huh? The Value of Uncertainty and Doubt in the Arts // Identity, Agency, and Culture in Academic Libraries Conference // Information Literacy Network of the Gulf // Interdisciplinary Design Symposium // Interior Design Educators Council Conference // International Academy for Design and Healthcare Conference // International Conference for Design Education Researchers and PreK-16 Design Educators // International Conference of Arts and Humanities // International Conference of Education, Research and Innovation // International Conference on Design Principles and Practices // International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities and Nations // International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic, and Social Sustainability // International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities // International Conference on Sustainable Alternatives for Poverty Reduction and Ecological Justice // International Conference on the Arts in Society // International Council of Fine Art Deans Annual Conference // International Economics and Research Development Centre Conference // International Group of ExLibris Users // International Journal of Arts and Sciences Conference // International Symposium on Electronic Art

// International Writing Centers Association // Internet Librarian International // Le Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique // Liberal Arts & Sciences Conference // Liberal Arts and Sciences Conference // Liberal Arts International Conference // Living in Harmony: Botanical Gardens and Society—a Dialogue without Borders // Mid-Atlantic Conference on College Composition and Communication // Middle East Studies Association Conference // Multi-disciplinary Conference of the International Journal of Arts & Sciences // Nanotech Dubai // National Conference on the Beginning Design Student // National Tutoring Association Conference // Notes from Underground: The Depths of Environmental Arts, Culture and Justice // PIC Art Conference // Popular & American Culture Studies: Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow // Qatar Annual Research Conference // Qatar Foundation Annual Research Conference // Qatar TESOL International Conference // Re-constructing Childhood Conference // Re-visioning the Urban Conference // SETCOR International Nanotechnology conference // Society of Typographic Aficionados Conference // Spaces and Flows Conference // Special Libraries Association, Arabian Gulf Chapter // Spectres of Evaluation Conference // Story7 Conference // Technical and Field-Related Problems of Traditional and Electronic Archiving Conference // The Asian Conference on Education // The International Creative Writing Conference // The Turbulent Mind Conference // Thermal Insulation in Construction Middle East Conference // UNESCO Regional Conference on Strategies for Fighting Illicit Traffic of Cultural Property and Fostering Restitutions // Videogame Cultures Conference // Visual Resources Association // XARTS Reviews of Work 67 critical reviews of work appearing in: // Al-Fanar Media // Art Magazine // Best American Poetry // Daily News Egypt // Die Zeit // Fast Company // Gulf Times // Huck Magazine // Huffington Post Spain // Information and Culture: A Journal of History // IWA Islamic World of Art // Journal of Arabian Studies // Le Petit Journal // Libération // Lost At E Minor // Middle East Journal // Middle East Media and Book Reviews // MÖTESPLATS Social Innovation // Nine Muses News // Pirene’s Fountain // The Daily Orange // The Daily Star // The Peninsula // TS Literary Journal

Conference Proceeding Publications 34 conference proceeding publications.

Curations // Abdul Rahman Anwar. Prayer Rug Design Exhibition. Msheireb Museums.

Doha, Qatar. October–November 2017. // Awde, George. Marratin Artists Residency Program, Beirut. 2013–2014. // Bangdel, Dina. Exhibition Catalog Introduction to Collective Journeys: Kashtamandap Artist Group. Nepal Art Council. November 2013. // Bangdel, Dina. Samundra Man Singh Shrestha, Embodied Enlightenment: Contemporary Paubha Painting.

Nepal Art Council. May 2016. // Browning, Ryan. Geo Necro. ADA Gallery, Richmond, VA. June 2016. // Browning, Ryan, Maryam Al-Homaid, and Michael Perrone. Strange Wonders.

Msheireb Company House Museum, Doha, Qatar. October 2016. // Cohn, Rachel. Tasmeem in the Classroom Exhibition. VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery and Depot Gallery, Richmond, VA. March 2015. // Lombard, Richard, Marco Bruno, and Thomas Modeen. Design Days Dubai, MFA exhibit. Curatorial.

Dubai, UAE. 2016. // Martin, Peter. Seminar Design + Implementation. Tasmeem Exploration Platform, Tasmeem Doha 2013, Hybrid Making, March 10–14, 2013. // Muscolino, Simone, Giovanni Innella, Agata Jaworska, and Aisha Al-Sowaidi.

Domestic Affairs. The House Is a Home to a Paradox. Fire Station Artist in Residence, Doha, Qatar.

March 24–May 15, 2016. // Muscolino, Simone, Richard Lombard, Michael Hersrud, and Levi Hammett.

Tasmeem Doha 2015. 3ajeeb!.

VCUarts Qatar, Doha. March 2015. // Powers, Holiday. Exhibition on Khalid Albaih Curatorial. VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha. March 2016.

Books and book chapters // Bateiha, Summer. “Creating Space for Critical Consciousness in the Mathematics Classroom.” Learning Across Borders: International and Transnational Education, edited by Leslie Seawright and Amy Hodges, 66–87. Newcastle upon Tyne: Cambridge Scholars Press, 2016.

// Bianchi, Robert, and Anwar Abdel Razeq. “The English Teaching Situation in Palestine.” In English Language Teaching Policy in the Middle East and North Africa, edited by Robert Kirkpatrick, 147–169. Cham: Springer International Publishing, 2017. // Bruno, Marco, Simone Carena, and Minji Kim. Borrowed City.

Seoul: Damdi Publisher, 2013. // Bruno, Marco, Simone Carena, and Minji Kim. Borrowed City. 2nd ed.

Seoul: Damdi Publisher, 2015. // Cohn, Rachel. “MeChat.” In The Aformal Academy Reader, edited by Merve Bedir and Jason Hilgefort. Shenzhen: Bi-City Biennial for Urbanism and Architecture, 2016. // Dalal, Radha. “Spaces of the Past: Nostalgia in the ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ and ‘The Last Express’.”

In Engaging with Videogames: Play, Theory and Practice, edited by Dawn Stobbart and Monica Evans, 265–275.

Oxford: Inter-Disciplinary Press, 2014. // Determann, Jörg Matthias. Historiography in Saudi Arabia: Globalization and the State in the Middle East. London: I.B. Tauris, 2014. // Determann, Jörg Matthias. Researching Biology and Evolution in the Gulf States: Networks of Science in the Middle East.

London: I.B. Tauris, 2015.

‫ كتابة التاريخ‬.‫ يورك ماتياس‬،‫ديترمان‬// ‫ العولمة‬:‫في المملكة العربية السعودية‬ ‫ ترجمة عبدالله‬،‫والدولة في الشرق األوسط‬ .2015 ،‫ جداول‬:‫ بيروت‬.‫بن إبراهيم العسكر‬ // Emans, Denielle, and Kelly Murdoch-Kitt. “Intercultural Collaborations in Sustainable Design Education.” In Routledge Handbook of Sustainable Design, edited by Rachel Beth Egenhoefer. Abingdon: Routledge, 2018. // Hanson, Debra. “Music as Muse: Thomas Eakins’s Realist Agenda in Elizabeth at the Piano.” In Rival Sisters: Art and Music at the Birth of Modernism.

Farnham: Ashgate Publishing, 2014. // Hamdy, Basma. “A Revolution told in Spray Paint.” In What Africa Can Do for Europe: 31 Brilliant Ideas to Inspire the World, What Design Can Do, 40–43. Amsterdam: What Design Can Do Live, 2016. // Hamdy, Basma. Walls of Freedom: Street Art of the Egyptian Revolution.

Berlin: From Here To Fame, 2014.

// Hersrud, Michael. “The Extreme Limits of Understanding.” In Collaborative Artist Book International Exchange, curated by James McPherson.

N.p.: James McPherson Limited Edition Prints, 2015. // Kahera, Akel. “Cairo’s Urban Parks: Space Place and Meaning.” In Contemporary Urban Landscapes of the Middle East, edited by Mohammad Gharipour.

Abingdon: Routledge, 2016. // Khan, Ali. “Sufis, Drugs and Rock ‘N Roll.” In A Collection of Film, Photography and Writing. London: Petrie Inventory, 2015. // Long, Leah. “Marble.” In The Countryside of Aphrodisias, edited by Christopher Ratté, Angela Committo and Dalgç Örgü, 62–69. Ann Arbor: Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, 2017. // Modeen, Thomas. “Tasmeem Doha—Hybrid Making.” In Exploring Buildware—Appropriating a more Multi-Sensory Approach to Computing Based Design. Doha: Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, 2013. // Paine, Patty. Feral, 3rd printing. New York: Imaginary Friend Press, 2012. // Paine, Patty. “Introduction.” In Mother, Loose, by Brandel France de Bravo. Lexington, KY: Accents Publishing, 2014. // Paine, Patty. Grief & Other Animals.

Lexington, KY: Accents Publishing, 2015. // Woodcock, Diana. Under the Spell of a Persian Nightingale. Cincinnati, OH: WordTech Communications LLC, 2015. // Paine, Patty. City of Small Fires. N.p.: Hermeneutic Chaos Press, May 2017. // Paine, Patty. “Marked.” In A Shadow Map/An Anthology of Survivors of Sexual Assault, edited by Joanna C. Valente. N.p.: Civil Coping Mechanism Press, 2017. // Powers, Holiday. “Articulating the National and Transnational in Exhibition Histories of the Casablanca School.”

Global Black Consciousness, edited

by Salah Hassan, Margaret Crawford, and Manthia Diawara. Durham: Duke University Press, 2016.

// Roberts, Sean. “From Colossus to Crusade: Rhodes in the Early Modern European Visual Imagination.” In Viewing Greece: Cultural and Political Agency in the Medieval and Early Modern Mediterranean, edited by Sharon Gerstel, 237–259. Turnhout: Brepols Publishers, 2016. // Roberts, Sean and Timothy McCall.

“Art and the Material Culture of Diplomacy.” In Italian Renaissance Diplomacy: A Sourcebook, edited by Monica Azzolini and Isabella Lazzarini, 214–233. Toronto: Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies, 2017. // Roberts, Sean and Timothy McCall.

“Raw Materials and Object Lessons.”

In The Routledge History of the Renaissance, edited by William Caferro, 105–124. London: Routledge, 2017. // Saoud, Khaled M., et al. “Microwave Assisted Preparation of Calcium Hydroxide and Barium Hydroxide Nanoparticles and Their Application for Conservation of Cultural Heritage.”

In Digital Heritage. Progress in Cultural Heritage: Documentation, Preservation, and Protection, 342–52. New York: Springer International Publishing, 2014. // Sokoly, Jochen. “Textiles and Identity.”

In A Companion to Islamic Art and Architecture, edited by Finbarr Barry Flood and Gülru Necipoğlu. 275–299.

Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, 2017. // Wirtz, Michael. “Embedded in their world: Moving mentally into the studio environment.” In The Handbook of Art and Design Librarianship, edited

by Paul Glassman and Judy Dyki, 139–146. 2nd ed., London: Facet Publishing, 2017. // Woodcock, Diane. Desert Ecology: Lessons and Visions. Georgetown, KY: Finishing Line Press, 2014. // Woodcock, Diana. Beggar in the Everglades. Georgetown, KY: Finishing Line Press, 2016. // Woodcock, Diana. Near the Arctic Circle.

Denver, CO: Tiger’s Eye Press, 2017. // Woodcock, Diana. “Qatar’s Quranic Botanic Garden and Desert Ecology: Poems from the Heart of the Arabian Desert.” In Gardens in Our Hearts, 152–172. Russia: Publishing House of the Polypress, 2013. // Woodcock, Diana. Tamed By the Desert. Georgetown, KY: Finishing Line Press, 2013.

Journal Articles // Al-Homaid, Maryam. “Personified: Objects With Personalities That Illustrate Applied Empathy as a Mechanism to Document Qatar’s Changing Phenomena.” The Interdisciplinary Design Symposium Publication, no. 1 (2015). // Ali, Farman, Shaukat Saeed, Khaled M. Saoud, and Syed Sakhawat Shah.

“Control of Particle Size and Morphology in Compatiblized Self-Catalyzed Co-Polyimide/Sio2 Nanocomposites.”

Journal of the Chemical Society of Pakistan 36/5 (2014): 810–817. // Alsobrook, Law. “The Spaces of Narrative Consciousness: Or, What is Your Event?” Technoetic Arts: A Journal of Speculative Research 13/3 (December 2015): 239–244. // Akhter, Toheed, O. Ok Park, Humaria M. Siddiqi, Shaukat Saeed, and Khaled M. Saoud. “An Investigation of Physico-Chemical Properties of New Polyimide-Silica Composites.” RSC Advances 4, no. 87 (2014): 46587–46594. // Amor, Cherif. “From Environment Behavior (EB) to Environment Behavior and Neuroscience (EBN): Are We Progressing?” EDRA Connections Publication 2/1 (2014): 10–11. // Amor, Cherif. “The Impact of Collaboration Pedagogy on Design Concepts and Creativity.” The International Journal of Design Education 8/2 (2014): 37–50. // Autin, Melanie, Hope Marchionda, and Summer Bateiha. “Attitude Adjustment in Introductory Statistics.” Proceedings of the 41st Annual Meeting of the Research Council on Mathematics Learning (San Antonio, TX), 2014. // Awotunde, Abeeb A., Ryad A. Ghanam, Suliman S. Al-Homidan, and Nasser-eddine Tatar. “Numerical Schemes for Anomalous Diffusion of Single-Phase Fluids in Porous Media.”

Communications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical Simulation, no. 39 (2016): 381–395. // Bangdel, Dina. “Architecture of the Newars: A History of Building Typologies and Details in Nepal.” Book Review.

Journal of the Society of Architectural Historians 72/3 (September 2013): 414–416. // Bangdel, Dina. “Packaging the Naked Buddhas: Authenticity, Innovation, and Cultural Imaginings in the Tourist Art of Nepal.” Ateliers d’anthropologie 43 (2016): 1–27.

// Bateiha, Summer, and S. Reeder.

“Transforming Perceptions of Elementary Preservice Teachers’ Mathematical Knowledge for and through Social Understanding.” RIEJS: International Journal of Education for Social Justice 3/11 (2014): 71–86. // Bianchi, Robert. “Arabic, English, or 3arabizi? Code and Script Choice Within Discussion Forums on a Jordanian Website.” Arab World English Journal (April 2013). // Bianchi, Robert. “Language and Topic Choice Among Prolific and Non-prolific Posters on an Arabic-English Website.”

International Journal of Social Science and Humanity 4/2. (2014): 128–131. // Bianchi, Robert. “Arab English: The case of 3arabizi/Arabish on Mahjoob.com.

Voices in Asia Journal 1 (2014): 82–96. // Bianchi, Robert. “3arabizi, Greeklish, and SMski—The Hybrid Making of Language in the Age of the Internet and Mobile Technology.” Tasmeem (Spring 2014).

140 // 141

// Crawford, Michael. “Review of Historiography in Saudi Arabia: Globalization and the State in the Middle East,

by Jörg Matthias Determann.” Bulletin of the British Foundation for the Study of Arabia 19 (2014): 68–70. // Dalal, Radha. “Sultan Ahmet Camii or Blue Mosque.” (December 16, 2013). http://smarthistory.khanacademy.org/ the-blue-mosque.html. // Dalal, Radha. “Great Mosque of Isfahan.”

(April 15, 2014). http//:smarthistory. khanacademy.org/great-mosqueisfahan.html. // Dalal, Radha. “A Pedagogical Turn: Shifting Center/Periphery in Qatar’s Art History Curriculum.” Art History Pedagogy and Practice 1 (2016): 11–19. // Derr, Diane. “Capturing Gaddafi: Narrative as System Currency.” Technoetic Arts: Journal of Speculative Research 12, nos. 2/3 (2015): 365–373. // Determann, Jörg Matthias. “Dynastic Periodization and its Limits: Historiography in Contemporary Arab Monarchies.” Der Islam 91/1 (2014): 95–114. // Determann, Jörg Matthias. “Review of The Caravan Goes On: How Aramco and Saudi Arabia Grew Up Together,

by Frank Jungers.” The Middle East in London 10/4 (2014): 21.

// Determann, Jörg Matthias. “Review of Sand or Soil: Genealogy and Tribal Belonging in Saudi Arabia, by Nadav Samin.” Comparative Islamic Studies 10/1 (2016): 121–22. // Determann, Jörg Matthias. “Review of The Emergence of the Gulf States: Studies in Modern History, by J.E. Peterson.” Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies 79/3 (2016): 659–60. // Determann, Jörg Matthias. “Review of The Other Saudis: Shiism, Dissent and Sectarianism, by Toby Matthiesen.”

Bulletin of the British Foundation for the Study of Arabia, no. 21 (2016): 65. // Emans, Denielle, and Kelly Murdoch– Kitt. “Design Nexus: Integrating Cross– cultural Learning Experiences into Graphic Design Education.” Studies in Material Thinking: Re/materialising Design Education Futures 11 (2014), paper 4.

// Ghanam, Ryad, Basim Mustafa, Muhamad Tahir Mustafa, and Gerard Thompson. “Matrix Representations for Seven-dimensional Nilpotent Lie Algebras.” Journal of Physical Mathematics 7 (2016): 155. doi:10.4172/2090-0902.1000155. // Ghanam, Ryad and Gerard Thompson, “Non-Solvable Subalgebras of gl(4,R).”

Journal of Mathematics (2016). http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2016/2570147. // Ghemari, Hessam, and Cherif Amor.

“Architectural Requirements for Improving Social Interactions in Subway Stations: An Evidence-Based Design Approach.” Journal of Civil Engineering and Architecture 77 no. 4 (2014): 430–38. // Ghamari, Hessam, and Cherif Amor.

“The Role of Color in Healthcare Environments, Emergent Bodies of Evidence-based Design Approach.”

Sociology and Anthropology 4/11 (2016): 1020–1029.

// Fetherston, Robin L. “The Night the Dunes Fell Silent.” Inter-Disciplinary.

Net. Session 4: Constructions of Evil.

(April 24, 2014).

// Hamdy, Basma. “Suspending Freedom: Image Politics and Propaganda in Egypt.” Seismopolite, Journal of Art and Politics, no. 8 (December 2014).

// Fetherston, Robin L. “Tailing Inspector Bucket: Dickens’s Progeny in Hammett’s Hard-boiled Detective Fiction.”

The International Journal of Arts & Sciences 7/1 (2014): 275–90.

// Han, Li. “Hybridization: Traditional Chinese Courtyard Houses and Contemporary Design.” The International Journal of Critical Cultural Studies 12/1 (2014): 23–39.

// Gaines, Kristi S., Zane Curry, JoAnn Shroyer, Cherif Amor, and Robin H. Lock. The Perceived Effects of Visual Design and Features on Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Architectural and Planning Research 31/4 (2014): 282–298.

// Hanson, Debra. “Orientalism Today: Re-Visions and Re-Makings.” Tasmeem (Spring 2014). http://dx.doi. org/10.5339/tasmeem.2014.5.

// Ghanam, Ryad A., Nadeem A. Malik, and Nasser-eddine Tatar. “Transparent Boundary Conditions for a Diffusion Problem Modified by Hifler Derivative.”

Journal of Mathematical Sciences The University of Tokyo 20/1 (2014): 129–152. // Awotunde, Abeeb A., Ryad A. Ghanam and Nasser-eddine Tatar. “Artificial Boundary Condition for a Modified Fractional Diffusion Problem.”

Boundary Value Problems (2015): doi:10.1186/s13661-015-0281-0. // Ghanam, Ryad, Hassan Azad, Indranil Biswas, and Muhamad Tahir Mustafa.

“On Computing Joint Invariants of Vector Fields.” Journal of Geometry and Physics 97 (2015): 69–76.

// Jeremijenko, Valerie. “Prologue to A Sibling’s Story.” Hinchas de Poesia: A Digital Codex of Contemporary Pan-American Writing, issue 19 (2016). // Ji, Emma, Y., and Mohamed Cherif Amor. “Bridging the Gap between Sustainable Design Education and Application.” The International Journal of Design Management and Professional Practice 8/4 (2015):15–38. // Kahera, Akel. “A Fatwa on the Status of an Urban Mosque: The Rhetoric of a Legal Discourse.” Encounters: An International Journal for the Study of Culture and Society, no. 6 (Fall 2015): 151–168. // Lombard, Richard and Amy Andres.

“Fake Fur, Fruit Leather, and Ferrofluids: The Challenge of Managing a Materials Library in the Middle East.” Art Libraries Journal 43/3 (2018): 161–166.

// Long, Leah E. “Extracting Economics from Roman Marble Quarries.”

Economic History Review, 70/2 (2017): 52–78. // Marchionda, Hope, Summer Bateiha, and Michelle Autin. “The Effects of Instruction on Developing Autonomous Learners in a College Statistics Class.”

Annual Perspectives in Mathematics Education. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics: Using Research to Improve Instruction (2015): 45–54. // McHarg, Molly. “A Sociocultural Exploration of English Faculty Perceptions of the Writing Center in the Qatari Context.” Arab World English Journal 4/4 (2013): 17–44. // McHarg, Molly. “A Spectrum Approach to Evaluating Sources.” Perspectives 21/3 (2013): 30–32. // McHarg, Molly. “Celebrate Citation: Flipping the Pedagogy of Plagiarism in Qatar.” Journal of Pedagogical Development 3/1 (2013): 38–39. // McHarg, Molly. “Scaffolding the Scaffolders: Peer Tutor Training in a Multilingual Context.” Second Language Writing (SLW) News (2013). http:// newsmanager.commpartners.com/ tesolslwis/issues/2013-10-07/3.html. // McHarg, Molly. “Reconceptualizing the Writing Center in the Wake of Local Admissions: Redefining Writing Centers in Qatar.” Arab World English Journal 5/3 (2014): 77–85. // Mitchell, Jocelyn Sage, Christina Paschyn, Sadia Mir, Kirsten Pike, and Tanya Kane: The Complex Professional and Personal Choices of Qatari Women.” DIFI Family Research and Proceedings (2015): 4. http://dx.doi. org/10.5339/difi.2015.4. // Nu’Man, Ruqiyyah and Ali S. Nazim.

“Islamic Economics and Finance Education: Consensus on Reform.”

Journal of Islamic Economics Banking & Finance 12/3 (November 2016). // Pati, Debajyoti, Michael O’Boyle, Cherif Amor, Jiancheng Hou, Shaboo Valipoor, and Fang Deng. “Neural Correlates of Nature Stimuli: An FMRI Study.” Health Environments Research & Design Journal 7/2 (2014): 9–28.

// Pati, Debajyoti, Patricia Freier, Michael O’Boyle, Cherif Amor, and Shaboo Valipoor. “The Impact of Simulated Nature on Patient Outcomes: A Study of Photographic Sky Compositions.”

Health Environments Research & Design Journal 8/2 (2015): 1–16. // Powers, Holiday. Review of Arab Art Histories: The Khalid Shoman Collection, edited by Sarah Roger and Eline Van der Vlist. H-AMCA on H-NET, August 2015. // Powers, Holiday. “Articulating the National and Transnational in Exhibition Histories of the Casablanca School.”

Global Black Consciousness, edited

by Salah Hassan, Margaret Crawford, and Manthia Diawara. Durham: Duke University Press, 2016. // Reeder, Stacy and Summer Bateiha.

“Prospective Elementary Teachers’ Conceptual Understanding of Integers.”

Investigations in Mathematics Learning 8/3 (2016): 16–29. // Reveles, J. Ulises, Khaled Saoud, and M. Samy El-Shall. “Water Inhibits CO Oxidation on Gold Cations in the Gas Phase: Structures and Binding Energies of the Sequential Addition of CO, H2O, O2, and N2 onto Au+.” Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics Journal (2016): 28606–28616. // Roberts, Sean. “Review of Princely Citizen: Lorenzo de’ Medici and Renaissance Florence by F. W. Kent.”

European History Quarterly 45, (2015): 174–175. // Roberts, Sean. “Review of The Renaissance in Italy, by Guido Ruggiero.”

European History Quarterly 46 (2016): 386–388. // Roberts, Sean. “Review of Rome Measured and Imagined: Early Modern Maps of the Eternal City by Jessica Maier.” Art Bulletin 98 no. 3 (2016): 399–401. // Roberts, Sean. “Salimbeni’s Epitalamio, Francia, and Maso Finiguerra.” Notes in the History of Art 35/3 (2016): 227–234. // Roberts, Sean. “Review of Inventing Exoticism: Geography, Globalism, and Europe’s Early Modern World by Benjamin Schmidt.” Comparative Studies in Society and History 58 (2016): 840–84.

// Roberts, Sean. “Review of Courtly Encounters: Translating Courtliness and Violence in Early Modern Eurasia

by Sanjay Subrahmanyam.” European History Quarterly 47 (2016): 189–191. // Roberts, Sean. “The ‘Lost’ Map of Matteo de’ Pasti: Cartography, Diplomacy, and Espionage in the Renaissance Adriatic.” Journal of Early Modern History 20, no.1 (2016): 19–38. // Roberts, Sean. “Review of Mapping the Ottomans: Sovereignty, Territory, and Identity in the Early Modern Mediterranean by Palmira Brummett.”

The American Historical Review, (February 2017): 145–146. // Saoud, Khaled, Nasr Saleh, and Rola Alsoubaihi. “Synthesis and Characterization of Ag/ZnO Visible Light Photocatalyst.” Journal of International Scientific Publications: Materials, Methods & Technologies, no. 7 (2013): 415–423. // Saoud, Khaled M., Shaukat Saeed, Rola M. Al-Soubaihi, and Massimo F. Bertino.

“Microwave Assisted Preparation of Magnesium Hydroxide Nano-sheets.”

American Journal of Nanomaterials 2/2 (2014): 21–25. // Saoud, Khaled, Rola Alsoubaihi, Nasr Bensalah, Tanujjal Bora, Massimo F. Bertino, and Joydeep Dutta. “Synthesis of Supported Silver Nanospheres on Zinc Oxide Nanorods for Visible Light Photocatalytic Applications.” Materials Research Bulletin 63 (2015): 134–140. // Shaukat Saeed, Rola Al-Soubaihi, Massimo F. Bertino, Lauren S. White and Khaled M. Saoud, 2015. “Laser Induced Instantaneous Gelation: Aerogels for 3D printing.” Journal of Materials Chemistry A (2015): 17606–17611. doi:10.1039/C5TA04215A. // Saoud, Khaled, Shaukat Saeed and Massimo Bertino. “Utilization of Continuous Low Power Visible Laser in the 3D Printing of Strong and Ultra-lightweight Cross-linked Silica Aerogel.”

Proceedings of Photonics and Laser Technology, Berlin, Germany, Journal of Lasers, Optics & Photonics 3/2 (July 2016): 28–29. // Saoud, Khaled, Shaukat Saeed, Massimo F. Bertino and Lauren S. White.

“Fabrication of Strong and Ultra-lightweight Silica-based Aerogel Materials with Tailored Properties.” Journal of Porous Materials 24 (July 2017): 1–10. doi:10.1007/s10934-017-0463-5.

// White, Lauren S., Julia Migenda, Xiaonan Gao, Dustin M. Clifford, Massimo F. Bertino, Khaled M. Saoud, Christoph Weidmann, and Bernd M. Smarsl.

“Synthesis of Silicon Dioxide, Silicon, and Silicon Carbide Mesoporous Spheres from Polystyrene Sphere Templates.” Journal of Sol-Gel Science and Technology 2, (2015): 1–10. // White, Lauren S., Massimo F. Bertino, G. Kitchen, J. Young, C. Newton, Rola Al-Soubaihi, Shaukat Saeed, Shaukat, and Khaled Saoud. “Shortened Aerogel Fabrication Times Using an Ethanol– water Azeotrope as a Gelation and Drying Solvent” Journal of Materials Chemistry 3/2 (2015): 762–772. // White, Lauren S., Massimo F. Bertino, Shaukat Saeed, Khaled Saoud.” Influence of Silica Derivatizer and Monomer Functionality and Concentration on the Mechanical Properties of Rapid Synthesis Cross-linked Aerogels.”

Microporous and Mesoporous Materials 217 (2015): 244–252. // Wirtz, Michael. “Editor’s Note.” Art Libraries Journal 43/4 (2018): 167–168. // Wirtz, Michael A. “Tasmeem Journal: A New Beginning.” Context 2, (2013): 9. // Wirtz, Michael A. “Tasmeem: An inauguration through ‘Hybrid Making.’”

Tasmeem 1 (2014). // Woolley, Kevin H. “Considerations for Effective Learning from G. E. Newell’s Writing to Learn.” The International Journal of Humanities Education 11/3, (2014): 31–36. // Yyelland, Byrad, and Robert Bianchi.

“AI-based Strategic Planning in Qatar’s First American Campus.” AI Practitioner 16/2 (2014): 54–59.

Exhibitions SOLO // Awde, George. “His Passing Cover.”

Fotofest, O Kane Gallery, University of Houston, Houston, TX. March 2014. // Awde, George. “Fragile States.” East Wing, Dubai, UAE. May–June 2015. // Awde, George. “imagined Measures.” Gallery 39K, Lahore, Pakistan. March 2016. // Awde, George. “Regards Sur Beyrouth.”

Photomed, La Friche Belle de Mai, Marseille, France. July 2016. // Awde, George. “Still Departures.” Sultan Gallery, Kuwait City, Kuwait. December 7, 2016–January 5, 2017.

// Awde, George. “Scale Without Measure.” Kathleen O. Ellis Gallery, Light Work, Syracuse, NY. March 20–July 27, 2017. // Browning, Ryan. “Terra Mutante.”

Mulherin + Pollard Gallery, New York, NY. January 2014. // Browning, Ryan. ”In the Future.”

VOLTA NY, presented by ADA Gallery, New York, NY. March 2014.

// Al-Homaid, Maryam. “Replaced.”

Doha Fire Station Garage Gallery, Doha, Qatar. June 2016.

// Awde, George. “I Spy With My Little Eye...” Casa Arabe, Madrid, Spain.

September–October 2015.

// Alsobrook, Law. “Te Kalliste: To the Fairest.” Interactive sculpture exhibited at ISEA 2014: The 20th International Symposium on Electronic Art, Lobo-Listone Gallery, Dubai, UAE. November 2014.

// Awde, George. “In Between/In Transit.”

Galeri Image, Aarhus, Denmark.

May 2016.

// Browning, Ryan. “Cruiselandia.”

ADA Gallery, Richmond, VA. 2014.

// Alsobrook, Law, and Mohanalakshmi Rajakumar, Ph.D. “The Last Drop.”

In “VCUarts Qatar Faculty Exhibition,” Msheireb Enrichment Centre, Doha, Qatar. April 11–May 6, 2015.

// Cohn, Rachel. “Ghost Ship Float.”

Stephen & George Laundry Line, New York, NY. Spring 2016.

// Awde, George. “Islam Contemporary.”

Lichtenstein, Whitney Center for the Arts, Pittsfield, MA. August 2013.

// Cohn, Rachel. “Memory Palace.”

Halka Art Gallery, Istanbul, Turkey.

January 2015.

// Awde, George. “Another Time.”

The Running Horse Contemporary Art Space, Beirut, Lebanon. 2013.

// Cohn, Rachel, Clemens Bauder and Andre Zolgholy. “Searching for a Fatamorgana.” Invited solo exhibition at Atelierhaus Salzamt, Linz, Austria.

Summer 2017.

// Awde, George. “Covering One’s Back.”

Gezira Art Center, Cairo, Egypt. 2013.

// Himsworth, Rhys. “Standalone Tools.”

Katara Art Center, Doha, Qatar.

September 2013. // Khan, Ali. “Beyond the Mat: Deciphering Eroticism in the Aesthetics of Professional Wrestling.” The Erotic Cloth: Seduction and Fetishism—A Colloquium. Art Worker’s Guild (London), March 2015. // Stensen, Zachary. “Render.”

Solo exhibition as Fylfot Fellows Correspondence Club art collective. Olin Gallery, Roanoke College, Salem, VA. October 24–December 5, 2014. // Stensen, Zachary. “Holdfast.”

Solo exhibition as Fylfot Fellows Correspondence Club art collective.

Dayton Visual Arts Center, Dayton, OH. September 4–October 17, 2015. // Wendling-Willeke, Annette.

“Dohaesque.” Modewerkstatt Susanne Landis, Stuttgart, Germany.

December 2015.

GROUP // Al-Homaid, Maryam. “In Memory of the Roundabouts at Here There.” Exhibition at Qatar Brazil 2014 Year of Culture.

Al-Riwaq Exhibition Space, Doha, Qatar.

December 2014. // Al-Homaid, Maryam. “In Memory of Roundabouts.” DMY Berlin, Berlin Germany. June 2016.

// Awde, George. “I Exist (In Some Way).”

Look/13: Liverpool International Photography Festival, Liverpool. 2013. // Awde, George. “Islam Contemporary.”

Rosenthal Art Gallery, Fayetteville, NC. March 8–April 18, 2014. // Awde, George. “Regeneration 2.”

Group Show. Landskrona Museum, Landskrona, Sweden. August 22, 2014–February 22, 2015. // Awde, George. “Unsaid, Unheard, Untitled.” Villa Paradiso, Beirut, Lebanon.

September–November 2014. // Awde, George. “Shangri La: Imagined Cities.” Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, Los Angeles, CA. September–December 2014. // Awde, George. “Confluence: Photographic Based Works from the Contemporary Middle East.”

VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar.

October–November 2014. // Awde, George. “PS5.” Project Space, Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art, Doha, Qatar. March 2015. // Awde, George. “Voies Off des Rencontres.” Arles, France. July 2015. // Awde, George. “I Spy With My Little Eye...” The Mosaic Rooms, London.

July–August 2015.

// Awde, George. “Scarlet Muse.”

Daniel Cooney Fine Art, New York, NY. June 2016. // Awde, George. “Alien Territory.”

Medphoto, Rethymno, Crete, Greece.

June 2016. // Awde, George. “Odarodle: An Imaginary Their Story of Naturepeoples, 1535–2017.” Invited group exhibition.

Schwules Museum, Berlin, Germany.

July 21–October 16, 2017. // Bangdel, Dina. “What’s ‘Himalayan’ about the Art of Nepal? Liminal Spaces of Cultural Production and Consumption.” College Art Association, Nepal.

February 2016. // Bangdel, Dina. “Cultural Heritage and Artist Outreach in Post-Earthquake Nepal.” Sites of Meaning: Caring for Asia’s Cultural Heritage. Seattle Museum of Art, WA. March 2016. // Blackwell, Richard. “ASH.” Multiple Collaboration. Invited Group Exhibition at Chicago, IL. Spring 2017. // Blackwell, Richard. “Unfolding Creative Methods.” Doha Fire Station, Doha, Qatar. Summer 2017. // Browning, Ryan. “Glimmerguts.”

Protocol Gallery, Gainesville, FL. September 2013. // Browning, Ryan. “Spin? Art.” Curated exhibition. Loft 594, Brooklyn, NY. October 2013. // Browning, Ryan. “Thirsty.” Curated exhibition. ADA Gallery, Richmond, VA. October 2013. // Browning, Ryan. “Strange Wonders.”

Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar. April 13–May 6, 2014. // Browning, Ryan. “Pizza Party.”

Airlock Gallery, San Marcos, CA. 2015. // Browning, Ryan. Exhibitor at Tokyo Art Book Fair, Tokyo, Japan.

September 2016. // Browning, Ryan. Exhibitor. Group print exhibition at New England Art Book Fair, Portland, ME. October 2016.

// Browning, Ryan. “Periscope.” Able Baker Contemporary Art, Portland, ME. February 2017. // Browning, Ryan. “Form/Force.”

VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar.

March 2017. // Browning, Ryan. “Satellite 2017.”

Satellite Project Space, Dubai, UAE. March 2017. // Bruno, Marco. “Crow’s Eye View.”

Invited group exhibition. Arko Center, organized by Korean Art Council, Seoul, South Korea. March–May 2015. // Bruno, Marco and Simone Carena.

“Creative ©ities.” Curated exhibition.

Kaohsiung, Taiwan. December 13, 2013–January 12, 2014.

142 // 143

// Bruno, Marco. “Crow’s Eye View: The Korean Peninsula.” Korean Pavilion at Venice Architectural Biennale, Venice, Italy. June–November 2014. // Bruno, Marco, Simone Carena, and Stephane Maupin. “Mobile Home Project.” Curated exhibition. Songwon Art Center, Seoul, South Korea. November 21–December 19, 2014. // Bruno, Marco. “The Biggest Wallet in the World.” Invited group exhibition.

Dubai Design Days, Dubai, UAE. March 15–20, 2015. // Bruno, Marco. “DOTJAROOM.” Invited group exhibition. Seoul Living Design Fair, Designer’s Choice, COEX Art, Seoul, South Korea. April 1–5, 2015.

// Bruno, Marco, and Simone Carena.

“Design Designer Designest.”

MOTOElastico Selected Projects (Seoul), 2014.

// Bruno, Marco and Simone Carena.

“Borrowed City Messengers.” Invited group exhibition at Micro City Lab, Gong Indie Art Hall, Seoul, South Korea.

October 2016.

// Bruno, Marco and Simone Carena.

“Q-POP.” Curated exhibition. Design Days Dubai, UAE. March 16–21, 2013.

// Cohn, Rachel. “WORK.” Group exhibition. Visual Arts Center Gallery, Richmond, VA. January–March 2015.

// Bruno, Marco, Simone Carena and Minjii Kim. “Close Closer.” Borrowed City Invited Project. Lisbon Architecture Triennale, Lisbon, Portugal. September 10–14, 2013.

// Davis, Nathan. “Strange Wonders.”

Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar. April 13–May 6, 2014.

// Bruno, Marco, Simone Carena and Dana Ahdab. “Hidden Match. Korean Craft in Saudi Arabia.” Exhibition Design, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. November 2013. // Bruno, Marco, and Simone Carena.

“Type Spaces.” MOTOElastico, 2009 Gwangju Biennale Project (Basheer, Singapore), 2013. // Bruno, Marco. “Motojari.” Design Days Dubai, Dubai, UAE.

// Bruno, Marco, Simone Carena and Stephane Maupin. “4 Mobile Art Shops at Dongdaemun Design Center.” Public Commission. Seoul, South Korea.

March 2014. // Bruno, Marco. “Strange Wonders.”

Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar. April 13–May 6, 2014. // Bruno, Marco, Simone Muscolino, Simone Carena and Minji Kim. “Fundamentals.” Curated exhibition. Venice Architecture Biennale, Venice, Italy.

June–November 2014.

// Davis, Nathan. “Weingart Typografie.”

Museum Für Gestaltung, Zürich, Switzerland. May 2014. // Davis, Nathan. “Silk Scarf Series,” and “Subtextual Sadu: Custom Majilis.”

In “Strange Wonders.” Msheireb Company House Museum, Doha, Qatar.

September 2016–January 2017. // Davis, Nathan. “Sarah Takes a Selfie.”

Inside/Outside: Working Our Way out of the Damaged Now. Exhibit and Symposium speaker for Design for Social Intervention Society Philosophy Talk and Lab LUCA Arts at San Francisco State University Design Gallery, San Francisco, CA. February–March 2017. // Davies, Nathan. “I Never Read.”

Basel Art Book Fair, Basel, Switzerland.

June 2017. // Davies, Nathan. Artist Book in China exhibitor. Art Book Fair, Mingshen 21st Century Art Museum, Shanghai, China. August 2017. // Derr, Diane. “Lines in the Sand.”

VCUarts Qatar, Doha, Qatar.

March 12–April 14, 2014.

// Derr, Diane. “Strange Wonders.”

Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar. April 13–May 6, 2014. // Derr, Diane. “From There to Here.”

Faculty exhibition, VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar. 2016. // Derr, Diane. “The Republic,” and “The Venue.” Design Days Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. March 2016. // Derr, Diane. VCUarts Qatar Faculty Exhibition. VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar. 2016. // Derr, Diane. “Four Camels.” Artist and Location at the Czong Institute for Contemporary Art Museum (CICA), Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.

September–October 2016. // Derr, Diane. “Vibrations.” Invited group exhibition at Diffrazioni Media Art Festival. The Conservatory of Florence, Florence, Italy. November 2016. // Emans, Denielle and Alisha Saiyed.

“Shifting Spaces & Forgotten Walls.”

Dual exhibition at Art 29 Gallery, W Doha Hotel & Residences, Doha, Qatar. March 19–26, 2017. // Fouquet, Monique. “Strange Wonders.”

Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar. April 13–May 6, 2014. // Hamdy, Basma and Noha Zayed.

“Found Khatt: A Typographic Journey through Egypt.” In Cairo Now! City Incomplete group exhibition at Dubai Design Week, October 2016. // Hamdy, Basma and Don Karl. “Walls of Freedom: Street Art of the Egyptian Revolution.” In Fighting Walls: Street Art in Egypt and Iran exhibition at New Art Exchange (NAE), Nottingham, U.K. October 1–December 18, 2016. // Hammett, Levi, Maryam Al-Homaid, and Pornprapha Phatanateacha. “Cultural Camouflage.” Otaku Exhibition, Katara Art Center, Doha, Qatar. 2013. // Hammett, Levi, and Maryam Al-Homaid.

“Urban Intervals.” Q-Pop, Design Days Dubai, Dubai, UAE. March 2014. // Hammett, Levi, and Maryam Al-Homaid.

“Urban Intervals.” In “Strange Wonders.” Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar. April 13–May 6, 2014.

// Hammett, Levi, and Maryam Al-Homaid.

“Emergent Landscapes.” Mobile application exhibited at ISEA 2014: The 20th International Symposium on Electronic Art, A4 Gallery, Dubai, UAE. November 2014. // Hammett, Levi and Maryam Al-Homaid.

“Patterns of Human Behavior.” Form (Force), VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar. March 2017. // Han, Li. “Hybridized Visualization.” Perception and Vision: Chinese-American Art Faculty Exhibition and Symposium, GuiYang, China. 2016. // Hersrud, Michael, Levi Hammett, Richard Lombard, and Simone Muscolino. “Tasmeem 3ajeeb!”

In curated exhibition of Select Work at Design Days Dubai, Dubai, UAE, March 16–20, 2015. // Hill, Leland, Muneera Spence, Basma Hamdy, Maryam Al-Homaid and Denielle Emans. “Nomadic Dolls: Craft Meets Technology.” Exhibition at the 20th International Symposium on Electronic Art, Dubai, UAE. November 2014. // Himsworth, Rhys. “Draw.” Black Swan Art Gallery, Bath, U.K. May 2014. // Himsworth, Rhys. United Art Fair, New Delhi, India. September 2014.

// Jeffries, Fleming. “Ink!” Silpe Gallery, Hartford Art School, Hartford, CT. March 14–April 1, 2015. // Jeffries, Fleming. “Navigation Press.”

Portfolio viewing. Southern Graphics International Conference SPHERE 2015, Knoxville, TN. March 18–21, 2015. // Jeffries, Fleming. Art Auction.

“A Benefit Auction for Critical Resistance.” Los Angeles, CA. August 12–26, 2015. // Jeffries, Fleming. “Making, Unmaking, Remaking.” Conference exhibition.

Henglu Gallery, China Academy of Art, Hangzhou, China. September 21–October 3, 2015. // Jeffries, Fleming. “Pull of the Print.”

Verum Ultimum Gallery, Portland, OR. April 2016. // Jeffries, Fleming. “Second Nature.”

North Dakota Museum of Art, Grand Forks, ND. July–Sept 2016. // Jeffries, Fleming. “Strange Wonders.”

Msheireb Company House Museum, Doha, Qatar. September 2016– January 2017. // Jeffries, Fleming. “Form/Force” VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery. Doha, Qatar.

March 2017.

// Himsworth, Rhys. India Art Fair, New Delhi, India. January 2015.

// Jeffries, Fleming. “A Bit of Alright.” SIM guest artist exhibition. SIM Residency Gallery, Reykjavik, Iceland. June 2017.

// Himsworth, Rhys. “Artist Inventor.” Flanders Gallery, Raleigh, NC. January 2015.

// McClure, Rab. “Loft Screen Wall.”

Design Days Dubai, Dubai, UAE. 2016.

// Himsworth, Rhys. The 2nd International Exhibition on Conceptual Art Group exhibition at CICA Museum, Seoul, Korea. December–January 2016.

// Modeen, Thomas. “Sade String Cabinet.” Exhibited piece. Pop-Up Gallery. Katara Art Center, Doha, Qatar.

November 2013.

// Himsworth, Rhys. “Civilization.”

Independent Music Video and Sound Art Winter 2016 Group exhibition at CICA Museum, Seoul, Korea.

December 2016.

// Modeen, Thomas. “Stove-top Table/ Meat & Bone Vases.” Exhibited piece.

VCUarts Qatar MFA Department, Design Days Dubai group exhibition, Dubai, UAE. March 2014.

// Jeffries, Fleming. “Naesis.” Cosamas Clud, Washington, DC, August 2013.

// Modeen, Thomas. “Meat & Bone Vases.” In “Strange Wonders.” Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar.

April 13–May 6, 2014.

// Jeffries, Fleming. “Portfolio Show.”

Southern Graphics Council, San Francisco, February 2014. // Jeffries, Fleming, Kelley Lowe and Sophiya Khwaja. “Rock Paper Scissors.” HBKU Student Center Gallery, Education City, Doha, Qatar. January 15–February 15, 2015.

// Modeen, Thomas. “Printed Vases.”

In Faculty Exhibition. VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar. 2016. // Modeen, Thomas. “3-D Printed Jewelry.” Design Days Dubai, Dubai, UAE. 2016.

// Muscolino, Simone. “Moving Postcards Project.” Katara Art Centre, Doha, Qatar.

December 2013–January 2014. // Muscolino, Simone. “Strange Wonders.”

Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar. April 13–May 6, 2014. // Muscolino, Simone, Ryan Browning, Rachel Cohn, Nathan Davis, Miriam Ewers, and Jesse Payne. Wise. Learning Festival.” Group pop-up exhibition.

Katara, Doha, Qatar. November 2014. // Muscolino, Simone. “ISEA, 20th International Symposium on Electronic Art.” Dubai, UAE. 2014. // Muscolino, Simone, and Paolo Cardini.

“Fake in Italy.” Wanted Design.

Terminal Stores, Ridgewood, NJ. July 1–25, 2016. // Muscolino, Simone. “Form/Force.”

VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar.

March 2017. // Payne, Jesse. “Strange Wonders.”

Msheireb Enrichment Center, Doha, Qatar. April 13–May 6, 2014. // Perrone, Michael. “Total View.”

Berlin, Germany. July 2014. // Perrone, Michael. “Qatari Mirror.” Student Center Gallery, HBKU, Doha, Qatar.

November 2, 2014–January 1, 2015. // Perrone, Michael. “Torch Cinema.”

Curated and presented work in a one-night film program, Troost, New York, NY. August 9, 2015. // Perrone, Michael. “VCUarts Qatar Faculty Exhibition.” VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar. January 20–February 23, 2016. // Perrone, Michael. “Monuments: Art in the Library.” VCUarts Qatar Library, Doha, Qatar. September 8–November 1, 2016. // Reams, Della, Johan Granberg, Jeanine Hill Rasmussen, and Rana Rwaished.

“Dressing Up, Going Out, Eating In.” Katara Art Center, Doha, Qatar.

January 28–March 8, 2014. // Reams, Della. “Exhibit of Contemporary Islamic Art.” LuminArte Gallery, Dallas, TX. October 25–November 29, 2014. // Reams, Della. “Flight Patterns.” Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Atlanta, GA. April 2014–April 2015.

// Reams, Della. “Live Gallery.” International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Meeting, Charlotte, NC. November 2014. // Stensen, Zachary. “Crossing State Lines: A Survey of American Printmakers.” Duncan Jordanstone College of Art (in conjunction with the Impact 8 international printmaking conference).

Dundee, Scotland. August 2013. // Stensen, Zachary. “Paper in Particular.”

Larson Gallery, Columbia College, Columbia, MO. January 2014. // Stensen, Zachary. “Reading Room.”

In collaboration with Blueprint 12 and Colombo Art Biennial, Alliance Francaise, New Delhi, India. April 2014. // Stensen, Zachary. “Southern Printmaking Biennale IV International Exhibition.”

University of North Georgia, Dahlonega, GA. November 10–December 12, 2014. // Stensen, Zachary. “Reading Room.”

Group exhibition. Kochi Muziris Biennale, Yousuf Art Gallery, Kochi, Kerala, India. December 13–January 6, 2015. // Stensen, Zachary. “35th Bradley International Print & Drawing Exhibition.”

Bradley University Galleries, Peoria, IL. March 7–April 17, 2015. // Stensen, Zachary. “National Juried Competition 2015—Works on Paper.”

Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences, Loveladies, NJ. July 3–24, 2015. // Stensen, Zachary. “Stand Out Prints 2016.” Highpoint Center for Printmaking, Minneapolis, MN. September–Oct 2016. // Stensen, Zachary. “Tributaries: A Centennial Celebration of Art & Design Alumni.” Invited group exhibition at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Eau Claire, WI. October 2016. // Suleiman, Yasmeen and Abdul Rahman Anwar. “What’s all this stuff?”

VCUarts Qatar’s Gallery, Doha, Qatar.

September 2018. // Woodcock, Diana. “Poetry from the Everglades.” Fresh AIRE: Artists’ Experiences in a World Heritage Site: a traveling exhibition (Artists-in-Residence in the Everglades), Florida. 2013–2014. // Woodcock, Diana. “Poems from Misty Fiords.” Voices of the Wilderness Traveling Art Exhibit (U.S. Forest Service), Alaska. 2014–2015.

// Wendling-Willeke, Annette. “Between Cultures: Masks 12, 13, 14.” In “From Qatar. General Exhibition of Qatar Fine Arts Association.” QFAA, Katara Building 13, Doha, Qatar. September 2015. // Wendling-Willeke, Annette. “Between Cultures: Masks 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and Masks 12, 13, 14.” In 1st EC Art, HBKU student center gallery, Doha, Qatar, October 2015. // Wendling-Willeke, Annette. “Phoenix.”

In “Strange Wonders.” Msheireb Company House Museum, Doha, Qatar.

September 2016–January 2017.

Faculty and Student Reflections

You know I’m really confident about the continued progress of the University. After two decades of growth and advancement, I’m certain that VCUarts Qatar is only going to reinforce its national, regional and global influence and reputation. So for us, this is truly something to celebrate.

—Michael Rao, Ph.D. The VCUarts Qatar Materials Library is an interactive resource, a studio and laboratory for the curious mind where materials can be explored by conducting hands-on research through testing and experimentation.

—Amy Andres 144 // 145

Before coming to VCUarts Qatar I worked in a corporate environment. Working here has been so different. I love the trendy working culture of the students. I remember the first graduation at the Sheraton hotel in 2002, it was so exciting.

—Beena Noorudeen VCUarts Qatar has been a good place to work, it brings out the best in you. I remember in the early days there were only a few of us, and it has gradually grown.

My favorite event is Tasmeem, it attracts so many amazing speakers and participants.

—Shaduli Thattan Valappil What I love most about my experience here is watching students develop…they come as young kids and leave as adults.

—Donald Earley

The people are what makes this place special, the students. I know all those who have graduated over the years, even when I meet them outside now with their families I know them.

—Ibrahim Abdulghafoor This program is designed to aid in the longterm development of this country, which is perfectly located to learn from a cross-section of cultures. These students and our faculty will be immersed in the Qatari culture, but they will be able to draw from European, Asian and American influences that are present in this cosmopolitan region.

—Paul Petrie Our mission has been to develop new university programs that provide the latest research, training and tools to the young people of Qatar, while also introducing them to new cultures. To create the best new universities for Qatar, we need to draw on the expertise of those who define excellence in their discipline. In the case of design arts, the selection was unquestionably VCU’s School of the Arts.

—Wijdan Shami Basit Students in VCUarts Qatar are provided with the best facilities to produce high-quality art, including their own private studio space. The mentoring provided at VCUarts Qatar is of such high standards that students who choose to study in Doha are on a par with the best in the U.S. —Joseph Zampetti

As educators, we have the added responsibility to prepare the next generation of change-makers. We motivate and equip Qatar’s sons and daughters to accomplish great things and to ultimately answer for themselves the daunting question of how they will contribute to their country’s future.

—Peter Chomowicz What I love about VCUarts Qatar is the amount of opportunities [it] has provided us. There are so many platforms, but it’s about us getting those opportunities, expanding those borders and I feel that VCU has done an incredible job on that.

—Anusheh Zaman What I love most about my VCU experience is it connects with my art creative side to to my culture khaleeji side.

—Ebtisam Al Hothi For the fashion department, the highlight is always the year-end fashion show.

We start every year with a new challenge and new students, and we take them on a journey. Along the way we all evolve and develop as designers, and every year it’s fresh and new and different.

—Ali Khan The amazing environment, students, faculty and staff made me stay all these years. The creativity, honesty and respect of everyone here is what makes VCUarts Qatar special.

—Iman Mazhar

When I joined VCUarts Qatar in 2007, it was a small building with a small family of faculty and staff. That year they opened up to men, and then subsequently added three programs. Over time I have seen that the new generations are more interested in design, visitors love the atmosphere here with all the art on the walls. My daughter, Naima, has been participating in the fashion shows since she was seven, and, this year, when it was time to go to college, although she got into several branch campuses here, she chose VCUarts Qatar. “You know mom,” she said, “VCUarts Qatar feels like home.”

—Nadia Y. Abudayeh Artists are people who reflect the soul of the nation; they are able to convey the true mentality of a people. A piece of art mirrors the mind of its creator, representing the raw emotions of the artist. You need confidence to express those emotions.

—Hana El Leithy One memory that really stands out is witnessing and being part of the first Doha Tasmeem Conference, which invited many famous designers and architects from around the world. After graduation, I stayed at VCUarts Qatar because the comfort I experienced at this community made me want to grow within it. What is special about VCUarts Qatar is that all are considered as one family and one community.

—Dana S. Rohani

Published by Akkadia Press 2018 Akkadia Press

28 Forth Street

Edinburgh EH1 3LH United Kingdom

www.akkadiapress.uk.com Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar Al Luqta Street

// Editors

Priya D’Souza

Nadia Y. Abudayeh // Writers

Priya D’Souza

Ruqiyyah Nu’man // Project Manager

Nadia Y. Abudayeh

Education City

// Project Coordinator

Printed and bound in Doha

// Copy Editors

Doha, Qatar

by Al Jazeera Printing Press ISBN 978-1-9999267-7-9

Rasha Alkasab

Nahla Diab

Patty Paine

Priya D’Souza // Art Direction

Sara J. Shaaban

// Creative Support Team

Haya S. Daher (B.F.A. ’07)

Moza K. Al-Suwaidi (B.F.A. ’14)

146

// Image Archivist

Annabel Armstrong-Clarke

// Translators

Nadia Y. Abudayeh Rania Rashad Ali

// Principal Photographers Markus Elblaus Raviv Cohen

Leila Natsheh (B.F.A. ’13) // Akkadia Press

Project Manager: Maureen Buja Design and Layout: Larry Issa Infographic: Iain Hector

// PRIYADSOUZA

COMMUNICATIONS LLP

Managing Partner, Priya D’Souza

Thank you to everybody

who made this book possible: // Donald Baker, Ph.D.

Executive Dean, VCUarts Qatar

// Patty Paine

Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs

// Andrew Mascari

Interim Associate Dean for Administration

// Greet Provoost

Assistant Dean, Enrollment and Registration Services

// Hallema Sharif

Former Interim Executive

Director of Communications // Mike Gallagher

Digital Content and

Social Media Manager // Malakah Mohammed

Procurement & Financial Services Specialist

// Sylvia D’souza

Senior Officer, Records and Registration

// Suzanne A. Silitch, A.P.R.

Director of Communications, VCU School of the Arts