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1 Dean’s message

2 cultiVating Design thinking

6 Design for social impact

12 BuilDing a Design inDustry: amal al-mehain, iD ’2003

16 creating an enVironment for Design

18 the year in numBers

20 graDuation 2010

26 proViDing a gloBal experience

28 eDucating future leaDers

30 fostering community inVolVement

32 a Destination for Dialogue

34 thank you

CreDits

Virginia commonwealth university in Qatar

the annual report is published annually by the office of communications.

we welcome your comments. please send them to mckaan@qatar.vcu.edu

editor: meike kaan

writer: priya lorraine Dominica D’souza

Design: cameron neat

photography: markus elblaus

contributors: constantin Boym, peter chomowicz, moamer Qazafi, roman turczyn

line ulrika christiansen, patty gibbons

copy editor: Dawn waters, nadia abu Dayeh

translator: adel Jamal awad

Message froM the Dean,allyson Vanstone

1

2009/10 was a year of firsts for Virginia Commonwealth University

School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUQatar), including the launch of the

first Master of Fine Arts in Design Studies program in the Gulf region,

the first undergraduate degree in visual arts in Qatar, the start of

an entrepreneurship initiative for students and alumni, and the first

university campus expansion in Education City.

VCUQatar’s graphic design, fashion design and interior design

programs have created awareness about the benefit of excellence in

design since the university was established in Education City in 1998.

Our graduates make us proud with their successful engagement in a

wide range of professions, earning positions at prestigious Qatar busi-

nesses and cultural institutions and starting independent companies.

VCUQatar’s continuous development, concentration on student and

faculty research, and expansion of community collaborations, ensure

that the region will have a talented network of creative, connected

professionals to both lead and support the extensive economic and

cultural developments in Qatar and the region.

I invite you to read the highlights of the remarkable accomplishments

achieved over this past year that move us closer to our vision to create

a Qatari society that innovates through art and design. I would also like

to take this opportunity to thank our faculty, staff, students, alumni,

board members, sponsors, partners and friends who contribute daily

to our learning community.

2 3

Master of fine arts in Design stuDies

The Master of Fine Arts in Design Studies accepted its first class

in fall 2009 and is the only graduate program in design in the Gulf

region. Placed amidst a great transformation of the state of Qatar, the

MFA program gives students a unique chance to both learn from the

region’s historical process and to influence its future development.

It acknowledges that design is a professional highly collaborative

discipline, incorporating the transfer of knowledge across traditional

domains to create products, environments, forms of communication

and the organization of information.

“We are looking for gifted graduates from different design and relat-

ed fields who may feel they have reached a certain impasse in their

career and creative work,” says the Russian-born, director of the

program, Constantin Boym, adding that this program is exactly what

they need to expand their knowledge and increase their motivation

to contribute directly to innovation in design thinking and making.

With a state-of-the-art media lab, facilities for 3-D digital fabrica-

tion, and a materials library with a dedicated curator, the program is

The new MFA program in Design Studies is a substantial advancement in the curricular offerings of VCUQatar, raising the school’s qualifications as an international destination for advanced students and faculty

— ROGER MAnDlE, ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR,

QATAR MUSEUMS AUThORITy

cultivatingDesign thinking

Successful economic and cultural growth requires the conscientious

design thinking and creative process core to the educational approach

at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar. Today, design thinking

is highly regarded among business leaders and policymakers and is

often employed to solve complex global problems. VCUQatar prepares

its students to become productive citizens who are able to contribute

to the professional and cultural growth of Qatar and the Gulf region.

Virginia Commonwealth University was the first university partner

invited to join the Qatar Foundation in 1998. Inspired by the vision of

her highness Sheikha Mozah Bint nasser Al Missned, VCU School of

the Arts initiated programs in fashion, graphic and interior design. By

2002, VCU established a full branch campus to become the Virginia

Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, conferring the

VCU degree to the first graduating class of 19 students.

Today, VCUQatar alumni are 270 strong, taking part in the emerging

creative and cultural organizations in Qatar and the region. And this

past year VCUQatar has expanded to include a visual arts curriculum

and the first Master of Fine Arts in Design Studies degree in the region.

2 3

Master of fine arts in Design stuDies

The Master of Fine Arts in Design Studies accepted its first class

in fall 2009 and is the only graduate program in design in the Gulf

region. Placed amidst a great transformation of the state of Qatar, the

MFA program gives students a unique chance to both learn from the

region’s historical process and to influence its future development.

It acknowledges that design is a professional highly collaborative

discipline, incorporating the transfer of knowledge across traditional

domains to create products, environments, forms of communication

and the organization of information.

“We are looking for gifted graduates from different design and relat-

ed fields who may feel they have reached a certain impasse in their

career and creative work,” says the Russian-born, director of the

program, Constantin Boym, adding that this program is exactly what

they need to expand their knowledge and increase their motivation

to contribute directly to innovation in design thinking and making.

With a state-of-the-art media lab, facilities for 3-D digital fabrica-

tion, and a materials library with a dedicated curator, the program is

The new MFA program in Design Studies is a substantial advancement in the curricular offerings of VCUQatar, raising the school’s qualifications as an international destination for advanced students and faculty

— ROGER MAnDlE, ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR,

QATAR MUSEUMS AUThORITy

cultivatingDesign thinking

Successful economic and cultural growth requires the conscientious

design thinking and creative process core to the educational approach

at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar. Today, design thinking

is highly regarded among business leaders and policymakers and is

often employed to solve complex global problems. VCUQatar prepares

its students to become productive citizens who are able to contribute

to the professional and cultural growth of Qatar and the Gulf region.

Virginia Commonwealth University was the first university partner

invited to join the Qatar Foundation in 1998. Inspired by the vision of

her highness Sheikha Mozah Bint nasser Al Missned, VCU School of

the Arts initiated programs in fashion, graphic and interior design. By

2002, VCU established a full branch campus to become the Virginia

Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, conferring the

VCU degree to the first graduating class of 19 students.

Today, VCUQatar alumni are 270 strong, taking part in the emerging

creative and cultural organizations in Qatar and the region. And this

past year VCUQatar has expanded to include a visual arts curriculum

and the first Master of Fine Arts in Design Studies degree in the region.

4 5

Bachelor of fine arts in Painting anD PrintMaking

Accepting the first class of students in fall of 2010, painting, draw-

ing and printmaking form the core of this major. Students are given

detailed technical instruction in a variety of media and the training

that facilitates a professional crafting and presentation of work.

Students develop skills for critical analysis, and are challenged

to think, to articulate ideas visually and to defend them verbally.

The flexibility of the curriculum permits students to tailor a course

of study suited to their professional and personal ambitions. The

department provides exposure to a plurality of ideas and stylistic

approaches. Students have an extensive educational experience to

build their intellectual, conceptual and technical abilities.

In addition to the traditional techniques, students can explore print-

making through many other contemporary avenues. The faculty

consists of working artists and historians. Through this major VCUQatar

aspires to contribute to cultural dialogue and development, enhance

visual literacy and encourage the growth of individual perception,

enterprise and artistic decision-making.

“As the fine arts and design are increasingly merging as fields, the

addition of the fine arts program will make VCUQatar an ever more

ideal school for creative people wishing to advance into successful

professional careers,” states Roger Mandle, Executive Director, Qatar

Museums Authority.

well equipped to deliver on its aim to prepare future leaders capable

of offering a high degree of sustainable value to the economic, social

and cultural contexts of the global community.

“The Gulf is not just reconfiguring itself; it’s reconfiguring the world,”

wrote Dutch celebrity architect Rem Koolhaas in his introductory

essay in Al Manakh: Gulf Continued. Mr. Boym puts this statement in

perspective explaining how the MFA program is vital in shaping the

business landscape of the country. “The unprecedented amount of

construction activity in Doha shall not result in design work being

outsourced in Europe or in the USA. In years to come we hope to see

more local design studios established or staffed by our graduates,”

he states.

Mr. Boym brings to the MFA program over two decades of design

experience; he taught at Parsons School of Design in new york from

1986 to 2000, and, in 1986 founded Boym Partners Inc. in new york,

a national Design Award winning (2009) firm that brings critical,

experimental approach to a range of products that infuse humor and

wit into the everyday. Boym Partners’ work is included in the perma-

nent collections of many museums, including The Museum of Modern

Art in new york.

4 5

Bachelor of fine arts in Painting anD PrintMaking

Accepting the first class of students in fall of 2010, painting, draw-

ing and printmaking form the core of this major. Students are given

detailed technical instruction in a variety of media and the training

that facilitates a professional crafting and presentation of work.

Students develop skills for critical analysis, and are challenged

to think, to articulate ideas visually and to defend them verbally.

The flexibility of the curriculum permits students to tailor a course

of study suited to their professional and personal ambitions. The

department provides exposure to a plurality of ideas and stylistic

approaches. Students have an extensive educational experience to

build their intellectual, conceptual and technical abilities.

In addition to the traditional techniques, students can explore print-

making through many other contemporary avenues. The faculty

consists of working artists and historians. Through this major VCUQatar

aspires to contribute to cultural dialogue and development, enhance

visual literacy and encourage the growth of individual perception,

enterprise and artistic decision-making.

“As the fine arts and design are increasingly merging as fields, the

addition of the fine arts program will make VCUQatar an ever more

ideal school for creative people wishing to advance into successful

professional careers,” states Roger Mandle, Executive Director, Qatar

Museums Authority.

well equipped to deliver on its aim to prepare future leaders capable

of offering a high degree of sustainable value to the economic, social

and cultural contexts of the global community.

“The Gulf is not just reconfiguring itself; it’s reconfiguring the world,”

wrote Dutch celebrity architect Rem Koolhaas in his introductory

essay in Al Manakh: Gulf Continued. Mr. Boym puts this statement in

perspective explaining how the MFA program is vital in shaping the

business landscape of the country. “The unprecedented amount of

construction activity in Doha shall not result in design work being

outsourced in Europe or in the USA. In years to come we hope to see

more local design studios established or staffed by our graduates,”

he states.

Mr. Boym brings to the MFA program over two decades of design

experience; he taught at Parsons School of Design in new york from

1986 to 2000, and, in 1986 founded Boym Partners Inc. in new york,

a national Design Award winning (2009) firm that brings critical,

experimental approach to a range of products that infuse humor and

wit into the everyday. Boym Partners’ work is included in the perma-

nent collections of many museums, including The Museum of Modern

Art in new york.

6 7

Designers have long been professionals who study audience and user

needs to inform the creation of new products, services and environments

that reference cultural, historic, economic and political contexts.

At its heart, design research is characterized by two impulses: trans-

lation and transformation. The widely used term “design thinking” or

design research seeks to serve society by connecting diverse disci-

plines to diverse populations. In both the professional and academic

world the traditional boundaries between disciplines are dissolving

or mutating, giving way to new forms of investigation, communication,

ideation and implementation.

Designers seek to leverage this trend by translating basic research

and breakthrough into a form widely benefiting society; and conversely,

by connecting to the communities around us, designers help target

research agendas and evaluate their efficacy. By acting as the glue

that binds diverse disciplines, design research transforms the people,

places and process in the world around us.

“At VCUQatar we believe research to be a vital component of the educational experience. Our research vision is to bring innovation to society.”

—PETER ChOMOWICz, ASSOCIATE DEAn FOR RESEARCh

AnD ACADEMIC AFFAIRS, VCUQATAR

Designfor social

impact

6 7

Designers have long been professionals who study audience and user

needs to inform the creation of new products, services and environments

that reference cultural, historic, economic and political contexts.

At its heart, design research is characterized by two impulses: trans-

lation and transformation. The widely used term “design thinking” or

design research seeks to serve society by connecting diverse disci-

plines to diverse populations. In both the professional and academic

world the traditional boundaries between disciplines are dissolving

or mutating, giving way to new forms of investigation, communication,

ideation and implementation.

Designers seek to leverage this trend by translating basic research

and breakthrough into a form widely benefiting society; and conversely,

by connecting to the communities around us, designers help target

research agendas and evaluate their efficacy. By acting as the glue

that binds diverse disciplines, design research transforms the people,

places and process in the world around us.

“At VCUQatar we believe research to be a vital component of the educational experience. Our research vision is to bring innovation to society.”

—PETER ChOMOWICz, ASSOCIATE DEAn FOR RESEARCh

AnD ACADEMIC AFFAIRS, VCUQATAR

Designfor social

impact

gaza anD the West Bank the challenge of reBuilDing a coMMunity

Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar in partnership with Qatar

Science and Technology Park (QSTP), Qatar Foundation and the United

nations Relief and Works Agency (UnRWA) are investigating how to

improve living conditions in Gaza and the West Bank. The collaboration

is an outgrowth of VCUQatar’s Center for Research in Design’s current

research project to improve the lives of Qatar’s migrant workers.

In support of this project, VCUQatar hosted a three-day workshop,

January 17-19, 2010, sponsored by QSTP, UnRWA, VCUQatar and Qatar

Foundation International whose objective was to develop specific

design and technology-based solutions in support of human, econom-

ic, and social development in Gaza, and in collaboration with leading

international relief agencies including habitat for humanity, Rebuilding

Alliance, and AnERA.

“The three day 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, Director

of CRID at VCUQatar.

“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 collabora-

tion where the unique capabilities hh Sheikha Mozah bint nasser

Al Missned has gathered at Qatar Foundation are brought together

to solve critical social development challenges in the region,” said

Bowman heiden, Innovation Director, QSTP.

a PortaBle architecture for QatariMProVing Migrant Worker conDitions By Design

The Center for Research in Design (CRID) at VCUQatar brings faculty,

graduates, students and design professionals together to undertake

applied design research. CRID develops innovative design solutions

and promotes the value of design through the intersection of design

research, education, practice and technology. CRID actively supports

collaborative research endeavors that contribute to Qatar’s innovative

and enterprising future.

One of its current research projects that originated in a Tasmeem Doha

student charette, focuses on improving the lives of Qatar’s migrant work-

ers through better housing conditions. “The initial driver behind this

initiative was to develop a model that was first and foremost a socially

sustainable concept. The benefits of this concept would be demon-

strated in the quality of life for the migrant workers, which in turn would

improve their productivity and address a huge humanitarian issue in the

region,” explains Roman Turczyn, director of CRID.

Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) is the funding organization

for the 1.4 million dollar project and QSTP’s Technology Innovation and

Entrepreneurship Program (TIEP) is developing the business model. The

Concept Design report was well received by QSTP and has been given

the approval to proceed to the Design Development Phase. Construction

documents for the worker housing design are currently being finalized

and a prototype is scheduled to start construction in January of 2011.

In addition, Texas A&M University at Qatar will be an integral member

of the project providing the technical expertise required to monitor the

energy performance of the proposed prototype. Their participation on

the project enhances the interdisciplinary approach to the project and

encourages collaboration between engineering and design disciplines.

8 9

gaza anD the West Bank the challenge of reBuilDing a coMMunity

Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar in partnership with Qatar

Science and Technology Park (QSTP), Qatar Foundation and the United

nations Relief and Works Agency (UnRWA) are investigating how to

improve living conditions in Gaza and the West Bank. The collaboration

is an outgrowth of VCUQatar’s Center for Research in Design’s current

research project to improve the lives of Qatar’s migrant workers.

In support of this project, VCUQatar hosted a three-day workshop,

January 17-19, 2010, sponsored by QSTP, UnRWA, VCUQatar and Qatar

Foundation International whose objective was to develop specific

design and technology-based solutions in support of human, econom-

ic, and social development in Gaza, and in collaboration with leading

international relief agencies including habitat for humanity, Rebuilding

Alliance, and AnERA.

“The three day 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, Director

of CRID at VCUQatar.

“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 collabora-

tion where the unique capabilities hh Sheikha Mozah bint nasser

Al Missned has gathered at Qatar Foundation are brought together

to solve critical social development challenges in the region,” said

Bowman heiden, Innovation Director, QSTP.

a PortaBle architecture for QatariMProVing Migrant Worker conDitions By Design

The Center for Research in Design (CRID) at VCUQatar brings faculty,

graduates, students and design professionals together to undertake

applied design research. CRID develops innovative design solutions

and promotes the value of design through the intersection of design

research, education, practice and technology. CRID actively supports

collaborative research endeavors that contribute to Qatar’s innovative

and enterprising future.

One of its current research projects that originated in a Tasmeem Doha

student charette, focuses on improving the lives of Qatar’s migrant work-

ers through better housing conditions. “The initial driver behind this

initiative was to develop a model that was first and foremost a socially

sustainable concept. The benefits of this concept would be demon-

strated in the quality of life for the migrant workers, which in turn would

improve their productivity and address a huge humanitarian issue in the

region,” explains Roman Turczyn, director of CRID.

Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) is the funding organization

for the 1.4 million dollar project and QSTP’s Technology Innovation and

Entrepreneurship Program (TIEP) is developing the business model. The

Concept Design report was well received by QSTP and has been given

the approval to proceed to the Design Development Phase. Construction

documents for the worker housing design are currently being finalized

and a prototype is scheduled to start construction in January of 2011.

In addition, Texas A&M University at Qatar will be an integral member

of the project providing the technical expertise required to monitor the

energy performance of the proposed prototype. Their participation on

the project enhances the interdisciplinary approach to the project and

encourages collaboration between engineering and design disciplines.

8 9

gathering the tiDe: an anthology of conteMPorary araBian gulf Poetry

Assistant Professor Patty Paine and Adjunct Professor Samia Touati

Dietz of Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, with Assistant

Professor Jeff lodge, formerly of VCUQatar and now of VCU Richmond,

are editing Gathering the Tide: An Anthology of Contemporary Arabian

Gulf Poetry. This is the first English language collection that presents

the poets of the Gulf region. The anthology, which will be released in

2011, invites readers into the rich and vibrant world of the Arabian Gulf,

while making available important literary works being undertaken by

poets of this region.

Students in VCUQatar literature classes first identified the need for

a comprehensive collection of Arabian Gulf poetry, and the creation

of the anthology was supported in part by a Qatar Foundation Under-

graduate Research Experience Program (UREP) grant. UREP seeks to

promote “learning by Doing” and “hands-On” mentorship activities as

effective methods for undergraduate education.

Professors lodge and Paine, originally from the US, were overwhelmed

by the generosity of Gulf poets. Professor lodge says, “The poets’

reception to the idea only echoed the grace with which the Qatari

students and their families, and the Qatari people as a whole, greeted

us upon our arrival in Doha several years ago.”

VCUQatar Dean Allyson Vanstone says, “I am continually impressed by

the initiatives of our faculty and students. This anthology is an outstand-

ing example that expresses significant research and creative explora-

tion to reach an audience far beyond the borders of the university.”

10 11

Doha MeMories

line Ulrika Christiansen, director of Design Foundation and lauren

Maas, assistant professor of Virginia Commonwealth University in

Qatar along with external collaborators Dr. Walter Aprile, (ID-Studiolab

Delft) assistant professor, Delft University of Technology, The nether-

lands and Dr. Stefano Mirti, (Interaction Design lab) director of Design

School, nABA, Milan, Italy challenge the question of how to create a mu-

seum based on intangible, precariously ephemeral memories which are

a chronicle of Qatar and at present hiding inside people’s memories.

Their research titled Doha Memories looks at the last fifty years of

Qatar’s history and attempts to capture, store and present oral mem-

ories of this fast-changing society “Qatar’s recent transformation

leaves a rich store of memories and stories: personal stories, collective

memories, traces of events, lost customs,” says Ms. Christiansen.

From the point of view of design research, Doha Memories addresses

open questions related to user involvement in the broadest sense,

particularly in the early phases of the project, with the specific chal-

lenge of cutting through cultural, linguistic and national differences.

The analysis of the research was concluded through a background

investigation, study of design precedents, and design of an early

prototype, which was tested in Doha during a public presentation.

Guided by the Arab proverb “no history, no future” which refers to

the general focus of the project, Doha Memories will showcase a

temporary installation that addresses this local proverb.

“Presenting poetry in translation is both a creative and a cultural act, and the art of translation is one of balance, of bringing the poem to the reader and the reader to the poem.”

— PATTy PAInE, ASSISTAnT PROFESSOR, VCUQATAR

gathering the tiDe: an anthology of conteMPorary araBian gulf Poetry

Assistant Professor Patty Paine and Adjunct Professor Samia Touati

Dietz of Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, with Assistant

Professor Jeff lodge, formerly of VCUQatar and now of VCU Richmond,

are editing Gathering the Tide: An Anthology of Contemporary Arabian

Gulf Poetry. This is the first English language collection that presents

the poets of the Gulf region. The anthology, which will be released in

2011, invites readers into the rich and vibrant world of the Arabian Gulf,

while making available important literary works being undertaken by

poets of this region.

Students in VCUQatar literature classes first identified the need for

a comprehensive collection of Arabian Gulf poetry, and the creation

of the anthology was supported in part by a Qatar Foundation Under-

graduate Research Experience Program (UREP) grant. UREP seeks to

promote “learning by Doing” and “hands-On” mentorship activities as

effective methods for undergraduate education.

Professors lodge and Paine, originally from the US, were overwhelmed

by the generosity of Gulf poets. Professor lodge says, “The poets’

reception to the idea only echoed the grace with which the Qatari

students and their families, and the Qatari people as a whole, greeted

us upon our arrival in Doha several years ago.”

VCUQatar Dean Allyson Vanstone says, “I am continually impressed by

the initiatives of our faculty and students. This anthology is an outstand-

ing example that expresses significant research and creative explora-

tion to reach an audience far beyond the borders of the university.”

10 11

Doha MeMories

line Ulrika Christiansen, director of Design Foundation and lauren

Maas, assistant professor of Virginia Commonwealth University in

Qatar along with external collaborators Dr. Walter Aprile, (ID-Studiolab

Delft) assistant professor, Delft University of Technology, The nether-

lands and Dr. Stefano Mirti, (Interaction Design lab) director of Design

School, nABA, Milan, Italy challenge the question of how to create a mu-

seum based on intangible, precariously ephemeral memories which are

a chronicle of Qatar and at present hiding inside people’s memories.

Their research titled Doha Memories looks at the last fifty years of

Qatar’s history and attempts to capture, store and present oral mem-

ories of this fast-changing society “Qatar’s recent transformation

leaves a rich store of memories and stories: personal stories, collective

memories, traces of events, lost customs,” says Ms. Christiansen.

From the point of view of design research, Doha Memories addresses

open questions related to user involvement in the broadest sense,

particularly in the early phases of the project, with the specific chal-

lenge of cutting through cultural, linguistic and national differences.

The analysis of the research was concluded through a background

investigation, study of design precedents, and design of an early

prototype, which was tested in Doha during a public presentation.

Guided by the Arab proverb “no history, no future” which refers to

the general focus of the project, Doha Memories will showcase a

temporary installation that addresses this local proverb.

“Presenting poetry in translation is both a creative and a cultural act, and the art of translation is one of balance, of bringing the poem to the reader and the reader to the poem.”

— PATTy PAInE, ASSISTAnT PROFESSOR, VCUQATAR

12 13

When one thinks of the Qatar real estate sector, the name that springs

to mind is that of Barwa. Projects and investments, joint ventures and

partnerships, sourcing from and to the country, heritage and innova-

tion – Barwa is at the center of the playing field where the world plugs

into Qatar. And Barwa Media, the marketing and communications

arm of the real estate giant, has its sights set on creating world-class

design in the country. Behind the success of this ambitious venture

is the ever capable, elegant and passionate Qatari Art Director, Amal

Al-Mehain, the force behind taking Barwa Media from a subsidiary to

a full-profit center for Barwa.

After graduating with a BFA degree in Interior Design from VCUQatar in

2003, Ms. Al-Mehain started her own graphic and interior design com-

pany, Pixels, with her business partner Jamal Al Itani. “The first few

years were difficult,” she reminisces talking about Pixels. “My partner

and I started with two designers, few projects and lots of expenses.”

Seven years on, Pixels has found its niche – specializing in printing,

signage, exhibition booth stands, CD printing, window designing –

which its 22 employees and long list of satisfied clients can vouch for.

Ms. Al-Mehain joined Barwa Media in 2006. “Working for Barwa has

been a great opportunity as I had the chance to start a department

from scratch and build it up to where we are right now – a full design

team capable of delivering all design services professionally and

efficiently,” says Ms. Al-Mehain. The projects she and her team have

aMal al-Mehain, class of 2003

builDing a Design

inDustry

12 13

When one thinks of the Qatar real estate sector, the name that springs

to mind is that of Barwa. Projects and investments, joint ventures and

partnerships, sourcing from and to the country, heritage and innova-

tion – Barwa is at the center of the playing field where the world plugs

into Qatar. And Barwa Media, the marketing and communications

arm of the real estate giant, has its sights set on creating world-class

design in the country. Behind the success of this ambitious venture

is the ever capable, elegant and passionate Qatari Art Director, Amal

Al-Mehain, the force behind taking Barwa Media from a subsidiary to

a full-profit center for Barwa.

After graduating with a BFA degree in Interior Design from VCUQatar in

2003, Ms. Al-Mehain started her own graphic and interior design com-

pany, Pixels, with her business partner Jamal Al Itani. “The first few

years were difficult,” she reminisces talking about Pixels. “My partner

and I started with two designers, few projects and lots of expenses.”

Seven years on, Pixels has found its niche – specializing in printing,

signage, exhibition booth stands, CD printing, window designing –

which its 22 employees and long list of satisfied clients can vouch for.

Ms. Al-Mehain joined Barwa Media in 2006. “Working for Barwa has

been a great opportunity as I had the chance to start a department

from scratch and build it up to where we are right now – a full design

team capable of delivering all design services professionally and

efficiently,” says Ms. Al-Mehain. The projects she and her team have

aMal al-Mehain, class of 2003

builDing a Design

inDustry

14 15

efforts over the last few years, have been able to change people’s views

on design and how important it is.” She looks forward to supporting

future Injaz events and believes Injaz is a great occasion to inspire

new graduates and current students.

More recently, Ms. Al-Mehain played a key role in supporting VCU-

Qatar’s first Alumni networking Reception with VCU President

Dr. Michael Rao and VCU International Alumni Relations liaison,

Mrs. Monica Rao. At a presentation by Barwa media, which preceded

the reception, Ms. Al-Mehain introduced the organization and the

VCUQatar alumni employed there to the visitors.

“I would like to help the girls in my team achieve their goals, see their

dreams to become signature designers some day come true,” she

says. Ms. Al-Mehain credits her education at VCUQatar for helping her

develop her skills and her personality. “Being part of an amazing

education and design environment made me appreciate everything

around me and look at the world from a different perspective, one that

made me realize design is not a career that you choose to be in, it is a

way of living, every day.”

“My focus for the future is to make Barwa Media a one-of-a-kind ser-

vices provider that offers unique design solutions to end users. I want

people in Qatar to believe in us as designers and in design as a career,”

she says with formidable conviction.

delivered for clients reiterate this feat. They include the InFDEx

(International Furniture and Design Exhibition) and QREx (Qatar Real

Estate Exhibition) booth designs, creating an identity for Qatari rally

driver nasser Al Attiyah, projects for multi-utility service provider

Marafeq, the Barwa Media website and the more famous Barwa and

Diar taxi advertising campaigns in london. The team is presently

working on other projects including the branding of Barwa City and a

mining company in Qatar and plans to announce them once they have

been launched.

The team Ms. Al-Mehain speaks so fondly of started out with two

designers four years ago and today comprises 16 designers - 95% of

whom are Qatari and 10 of whom are VCUQatar alumni - who work in

the graphic design, interior design and multimedia sections of Barwa

Media. Working at Barwa Media has helped expose the designers to

the local market, believes Ms. Al-Mehain. She is extremely proud of

the team and the milestones they set for the design department. She

is especially pleased with the number of VCUQatar alumni who have

interned at or joined Barwa Media. “It is a delightful working experi-

ence since all of us speak the same language and come from the same

educational background,” she explains.

Ms. Al-Mehain continues to support her alma mater and is actively

involved in almost every VCUQatar alumni event. In 2009, she pre-

sented awards to VCUQatar alumni at Barwa Media during Alumni

Injaz night (Injaz is Arabic for achievement) iterating, “Injaz is an

opportunity to prove that VCUQatar graduates are out in the market

designing and inspiring others. These designers, with their continuous

14 15

efforts over the last few years, have been able to change people’s views

on design and how important it is.” She looks forward to supporting

future Injaz events and believes Injaz is a great occasion to inspire

new graduates and current students.

More recently, Ms. Al-Mehain played a key role in supporting VCU-

Qatar’s first Alumni networking Reception with VCU President

Dr. Michael Rao and VCU International Alumni Relations liaison,

Mrs. Monica Rao. At a presentation by Barwa media, which preceded

the reception, Ms. Al-Mehain introduced the organization and the

VCUQatar alumni employed there to the visitors.

“I would like to help the girls in my team achieve their goals, see their

dreams to become signature designers some day come true,” she

says. Ms. Al-Mehain credits her education at VCUQatar for helping her

develop her skills and her personality. “Being part of an amazing

education and design environment made me appreciate everything

around me and look at the world from a different perspective, one that

made me realize design is not a career that you choose to be in, it is a

way of living, every day.”

“My focus for the future is to make Barwa Media a one-of-a-kind ser-

vices provider that offers unique design solutions to end users. I want

people in Qatar to believe in us as designers and in design as a career,”

she says with formidable conviction.

delivered for clients reiterate this feat. They include the InFDEx

(International Furniture and Design Exhibition) and QREx (Qatar Real

Estate Exhibition) booth designs, creating an identity for Qatari rally

driver nasser Al Attiyah, projects for multi-utility service provider

Marafeq, the Barwa Media website and the more famous Barwa and

Diar taxi advertising campaigns in london. The team is presently

working on other projects including the branding of Barwa City and a

mining company in Qatar and plans to announce them once they have

been launched.

The team Ms. Al-Mehain speaks so fondly of started out with two

designers four years ago and today comprises 16 designers - 95% of

whom are Qatari and 10 of whom are VCUQatar alumni - who work in

the graphic design, interior design and multimedia sections of Barwa

Media. Working at Barwa Media has helped expose the designers to

the local market, believes Ms. Al-Mehain. She is extremely proud of

the team and the milestones they set for the design department. She

is especially pleased with the number of VCUQatar alumni who have

interned at or joined Barwa Media. “It is a delightful working experi-

ence since all of us speak the same language and come from the same

educational background,” she explains.

Ms. Al-Mehain continues to support her alma mater and is actively

involved in almost every VCUQatar alumni event. In 2009, she pre-

sented awards to VCUQatar alumni at Barwa Media during Alumni

Injaz night (Injaz is Arabic for achievement) iterating, “Injaz is an

opportunity to prove that VCUQatar graduates are out in the market

designing and inspiring others. These designers, with their continuous

16 17

Over the past two years, VCUQatar has undergone an extensive process

of expansion and renovation. The expansion, which more than doubles

the size of the current facility, is yet another critical step to fulfilling

VCUQatar’s goal of providing an exceptional educational environment for

students from Qatar, the Arabian Gulf region and from around the world.

VCUQatar now features an impressive two-wing building with an exterior

reminiscent of the heritage and culture of Qatar and an interior in which

student projects line the hallways, showcasing a vibrant contemporary

design and art school.

The hub of activity occurs within the studios which students have

access to around the clock throughout the calendar year. The expan-

sion adds state-of-the-art facilities such as a sophisticated media lab,

facilities for 3-D digital fabrication, photography studios, and a vastly

expanded library. In addition, the campus now features a large cafete-

ria, several student lounges, male and female prayer rooms and two

central halls where people can gather for activities and presentations.

creating an

environment

for Design

The library has always been described as the symbolic heart of a university. It helps to sustain the academics, research, and, yes, social aspects of the institution. We now have room to show off our enviable collection of art and design books. We have areas for quiet study, group study and a room for library instruction.

—nAnCy FAWlEy, hEAD OF USER SERVICES, VCUQATAR lIBRARy

16 17

Over the past two years, VCUQatar has undergone an extensive process

of expansion and renovation. The expansion, which more than doubles

the size of the current facility, is yet another critical step to fulfilling

VCUQatar’s goal of providing an exceptional educational environment for

students from Qatar, the Arabian Gulf region and from around the world.

VCUQatar now features an impressive two-wing building with an exterior

reminiscent of the heritage and culture of Qatar and an interior in which

student projects line the hallways, showcasing a vibrant contemporary

design and art school.

The hub of activity occurs within the studios which students have

access to around the clock throughout the calendar year. The expan-

sion adds state-of-the-art facilities such as a sophisticated media lab,

facilities for 3-D digital fabrication, photography studios, and a vastly

expanded library. In addition, the campus now features a large cafete-

ria, several student lounges, male and female prayer rooms and two

central halls where people can gather for activities and presentations.

creating an

environment

for Design

The library has always been described as the symbolic heart of a university. It helps to sustain the academics, research, and, yes, social aspects of the institution. We now have room to show off our enviable collection of art and design books. We have areas for quiet study, group study and a room for library instruction.

—nAnCy FAWlEy, hEAD OF USER SERVICES, VCUQATAR lIBRARy

Qat

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18 19

Qatari non-Qatari53% 47%

total enrollMent enrollMent By DePartMentrecruitMent

2001

117

2002

122

2003

141

2004

159

2005

182

2006

192

2007

193

2008

210

2009

223

182 completeD applications

64 freshmen enrolleD

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cross registration

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from other universities

completed vcuQatar courses

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enrolled in classes at vcuQatar

through the academic bridge program

stuDent PoPulation

Dean’s list

55 students

made the Dean’s list in fall 2009

48 students

made the Dean’s list in spring 2010

virginia

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Qatar

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2009/2010

12th academic year

223 students enrolled

270 alumni

9th graduation class

39 students graduated

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18 19

Qatari non-Qatari53% 47%

total enrollMent enrollMent By DePartMentrecruitMent

2001

117

2002

122

2003

141

2004

159

2005

182

2006

192

2007

193

2008

210

2009

223

182 completeD applications

64 freshmen enrolleD

76 aDmitteD stuDents

founDations29%

graphic Design30%

interior Design30%

fashion Design9%

mfa Design stuDies2%

cross registration

139 students

from other universities

completed vcuQatar courses

39 students

enrolled in classes at vcuQatar

through the academic bridge program

stuDent PoPulation

Dean’s list

55 students

made the Dean’s list in fall 2009

48 students

made the Dean’s list in spring 2010

virginia

commonwealth

university

Qatar

2009/2010

2009/2010

12th academic year

223 students enrolled

270 alumni

9th graduation class

39 students graduated

20 21

graDuation

2010

her highness Sheikha Mozah bint nasser Al Missned, chairperson of

Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Develop-

ment, urged graduates to remember that the virtues of the human

mind transcend technological wonders during Virginia Common-

wealth University’s 2010 spring commencement exercises.

her highness said that education serves as a valuable tool for young

people around the world, noting the common benefits a college educa-

tion offers new graduates in both Qatar and the United States.“Within

each of us there is a passionate interest waiting to be uncovered,” she

said. “Education is one of the most powerful means for any individual

to discover the promise that lies within.”

coMMenceMent at Vcu richMonD

Students received professional, graduate and undergraduate degrees

at the ceremony at the Richmond Coliseum. About 2,800 students

attended the ceremony, and about 4,300 degrees were conferred.

VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., told the graduates that VCU’s

commitment to them will continue long past graduation. “Our respon-

sibility – those of us who administer and teach at VCU – to you does

not end today,” Rao said. “That is because how ever the world sees

VCU – its reputation, its standing – will affect how the world sees you.

“My job is to make sure that VCU’s ascending line of greatness keeps

ascending, that the reputation of this university continues to grow and

never diminishes,” he said.

20 21

graDuation

2010

her highness Sheikha Mozah bint nasser Al Missned, chairperson of

Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Develop-

ment, urged graduates to remember that the virtues of the human

mind transcend technological wonders during Virginia Common-

wealth University’s 2010 spring commencement exercises.

her highness said that education serves as a valuable tool for young

people around the world, noting the common benefits a college educa-

tion offers new graduates in both Qatar and the United States.“Within

each of us there is a passionate interest waiting to be uncovered,” she

said. “Education is one of the most powerful means for any individual

to discover the promise that lies within.”

coMMenceMent at Vcu richMonD

Students received professional, graduate and undergraduate degrees

at the ceremony at the Richmond Coliseum. About 2,800 students

attended the ceremony, and about 4,300 degrees were conferred.

VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., told the graduates that VCU’s

commitment to them will continue long past graduation. “Our respon-

sibility – those of us who administer and teach at VCU – to you does

not end today,” Rao said. “That is because how ever the world sees

VCU – its reputation, its standing – will affect how the world sees you.

“My job is to make sure that VCU’s ascending line of greatness keeps

ascending, that the reputation of this university continues to grow and

never diminishes,” he said.

22 23

Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar held its 2010 Commencement

Ceremony on 8 May at the Ritz Carlton Doha, conferring 41 Bachelor of

Fine Arts degrees in fashion, graphic and interior design. Two students

from VCU Richmond walked with VCUQatar’s 39 graduating students at

the ceremony. The 9th Commencement brings the number of VCUQatar

alumni to 270.

“I would like to congratulate our graduates on their many achieve-

ments,” say VCUQatar Dean Allyson Vanstone. “They are entering a

field that has become an increasingly global profession, and we are

proud to say that our students have been educated and equipped to

be leaders in addressing the design issues that challenge the world

today and tomorrow. With the unequivocal support of a great leader

and role model, Sheikha Mozah bint nasser Al Missned, they are

coMMenceMent 2010, VcuQatar

prepared to participate in building the nation and region while contrib-

uting their voice to initiatives throughout the world,” she added.

Rodney Fitch, founder and chairperson of Fitch Worldwide, delivered a

commencement address that reflected his professional experiences.

VCUQatar students have worked closely with Fitch Qatar over the years

as interns and on several collaborative projects.

VCU President, Dr. Michael Rao addressed the graduating students

during the ceremony. “Trendsetting and innovation are key words here

in Doha and you will be the innovators shaping your country and the

region. I am confident that you will contribute to the design of Qatar’s

future,” he said in his concluding statement.

Education City’s third Senior Convocation took place on May 4, 2010

at Education City’s Ceremonial Court. During the convocation, 194

graduates from Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, Weill

Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Texas A&M University in Qatar, Carnegie

Mellon University in Qatar, and Georgetown University School of

Foreign Affairs were honored in front of family and friends. QF President

Dr. Fathy Saoud and QF Vice President for Education Dr. Abdullah Al

Thani congratulated each graduate. her highness Sheikha Mozah Bint

nasser Al Missned addressed the graduating class.

conVocation 2010, eDucation city

22 23

Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar held its 2010 Commencement

Ceremony on 8 May at the Ritz Carlton Doha, conferring 41 Bachelor of

Fine Arts degrees in fashion, graphic and interior design. Two students

from VCU Richmond walked with VCUQatar’s 39 graduating students at

the ceremony. The 9th Commencement brings the number of VCUQatar

alumni to 270.

“I would like to congratulate our graduates on their many achieve-

ments,” say VCUQatar Dean Allyson Vanstone. “They are entering a

field that has become an increasingly global profession, and we are

proud to say that our students have been educated and equipped to

be leaders in addressing the design issues that challenge the world

today and tomorrow. With the unequivocal support of a great leader

and role model, Sheikha Mozah bint nasser Al Missned, they are

coMMenceMent 2010, VcuQatar

prepared to participate in building the nation and region while contrib-

uting their voice to initiatives throughout the world,” she added.

Rodney Fitch, founder and chairperson of Fitch Worldwide, delivered a

commencement address that reflected his professional experiences.

VCUQatar students have worked closely with Fitch Qatar over the years

as interns and on several collaborative projects.

VCU President, Dr. Michael Rao addressed the graduating students

during the ceremony. “Trendsetting and innovation are key words here

in Doha and you will be the innovators shaping your country and the

region. I am confident that you will contribute to the design of Qatar’s

future,” he said in his concluding statement.

Education City’s third Senior Convocation took place on May 4, 2010

at Education City’s Ceremonial Court. During the convocation, 194

graduates from Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, Weill

Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Texas A&M University in Qatar, Carnegie

Mellon University in Qatar, and Georgetown University School of

Foreign Affairs were honored in front of family and friends. QF President

Dr. Fathy Saoud and QF Vice President for Education Dr. Abdullah Al

Thani congratulated each graduate. her highness Sheikha Mozah Bint

nasser Al Missned addressed the graduating class.

conVocation 2010, eDucation city

24 25

senior exhiBition anD annual fashion shoW

Every Spring, VCUQatar presents the Senior Exhibition, a juried

exhibition that showcases the final thesis projects plus a selec-

tion of the best work of VCUQatar senior students from the Fashion,

Interior and Graphic Design departments. Over the course of the Senior

Showcase week, visitors see final theses and other research projects of

Graphic and Interior Design students, and a fashion show that presents

the final portfolios of Fashion Design students.

“This year we invited the senior students to submit their favorite work

from any part of their study at VCUQatar,” said Jochen Sokoly, gallery

director at VCUQatar. “The students have shown a lot of creativity and

ingenuity in their designs,” he stated.

“Students start with a particular source of inspiration and explore pos-

sibilities through their design ideas,” said Sandra Wilkins, chair of the

Fashion Design Department. “They are making an identity statement,

really,” she added.

24 25

senior exhiBition anD annual fashion shoW

Every Spring, VCUQatar presents the Senior Exhibition, a juried

exhibition that showcases the final thesis projects plus a selec-

tion of the best work of VCUQatar senior students from the Fashion,

Interior and Graphic Design departments. Over the course of the Senior

Showcase week, visitors see final theses and other research projects of

Graphic and Interior Design students, and a fashion show that presents

the final portfolios of Fashion Design students.

“This year we invited the senior students to submit their favorite work

from any part of their study at VCUQatar,” said Jochen Sokoly, gallery

director at VCUQatar. “The students have shown a lot of creativity and

ingenuity in their designs,” he stated.

“Students start with a particular source of inspiration and explore pos-

sibilities through their design ideas,” said Sandra Wilkins, chair of the

Fashion Design Department. “They are making an identity statement,

really,” she added.

fuDan uniVersity collaBorations

In 2010, MFA students and faculty collabo-

rated with students from Fudan University,

Shanghai, China to produce a series of video

vignettes that presented stereotypes and

facts about food in Arabic and Chinese

cultures. VCUQatar students traveled to

Shanghai at the end of May to meet with

their collaborators at Fudan University and

visit the Shanghai Expo. The overall theme of

the project was Eating Design, a discipline

that positions food as an edible, designed

product that is ergonomic, functional, com-

municative, interactive, visionary but radically

contemporary and timeless at the same time.

Renowned eating designer Marije Vogelzang,

was a guest workshop leader for the MFA

students during the semester.

stuDent exchanges BetWeen richMonD anD Qatar

This year the Qatar and Richmond

Foundation Programs created a student

exchange experience for ten selected students

from both campuses. The exchange, during

their respective spring breaks, was a new

initiative with a focus on freshmen students

working collaboratively to bridge cultural,

geographic and national barriers. In addition

to studio workshops, the visit also included

museum visits and a gala dinner hosted by

the Qatari Embassy in Washington, DC. The

student outcomes and interactions made the

program a success and will be a future model

of exchange.

international learning oPPortunities

VCUQatar students participated in a variety

of study abroad trips. Interior Design took

15 students to london and Dubai; Graphic

Design took 20 students to Japan and

lebanon and Fashion Design took 18

students to Italy. Five students and five

alumni also participated in the Islamic Art

Symposium in Cordoba, Spain.

Student Affairs supported six International

internships through money raised by the

community programs: Ahmed El Sayed with

Thrown ltd in Riga, latvia; Selina Farooqui

with Isabel Toledo in new york; zarmina Qazi

with Arcanoid Architects in Thessaloniki,

Greece; Carla Mallari Feral Childe in

new york; Esra Sharab with Arzu Kaprol in

Istanbul, Turkey; Bekita Mubarak Muwangua

with Arzu Kaprol in Istanbul, Turkey.

Qatari student Davood anwari speaking with visiting vcu student. gD student hadir samir omar enjoys her visit to japan.

the Biennial haMaD Bin khalifa islaMic syMPosiuM

And Diverse Are Their hues: Color in Islamic

Art and Culture, the third biennial Hamad bin

Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art, was held

in Córdoba, Spain, november 2-4, 2009.

Sponsored by Virginia Commonwealth

University (VCU) School of the Arts, VCUQatar,

and the Qatar Foundation and organized by

co-chairs Sheila Blair and Jonathan Bloom,

the symposia explored broad issues in the

visual arts of the Islamic world. The fourth

symposium will be held in Doha in november

2011 in cooperation with the Museum of

Islamic Art.

hollyWooD coMes to Doha

VCUQatar hosted leading figures from the

world of film who were in Qatar as speak-

ers at the Financial Times Business of Film

Summit. Students presented their work and

had the opportunity to be critiqued by the

film legends. Mark Gordon, producer of The

Mark Gordon Company (films include Patriot,

Day After Tomorrow and 2012); Bill Mechanic,

founder, Pandemonium Films and former

chairman of Fox (films include Titanic,

Braveheart and the animation Coraline);

Jeremy Thomas CBE, producer and founder,

Recorded Picture Company and hanWay

Films (films include Crash and The Man

Who Killed Don Quixote); Ivan Dunleavy, chief

executive, Pinewood Shepperton plc. (films

include Sherlock holmes and Quantum of

Solace); Greg Coote, chairman and CEO, Dune

Entertainment (recently co-funded Avatar);

and Michael Andreen senior vice president,

International Production, Walt Disney were

in attendance.

stuDents attenD cannes lions international aDVertising festiVal 2010

The Cannes lions International Advertising

Festival is a global festival for those working

in advertising and related fields. The seven-

day festival, including the lions awards,

is held yearly at the Palais de Festivals in

Cannes, France. Q.Media generously provided

two full delegate passes to VCUQatar stu-

dents, Fatima Mousa zainal and nawar Adel

Al-Mutlaq, who attended all seminars, work-

shops, presentations and events. Students

were immersed in the international advertis-

ing world and returned to their studies with a

new pursuit of excellence among students.

marianna shreve simpson discusses the impact of the

color red “ahmar,” “surkh” and “kirmizi” in the history

of islamic art.

film producers mark gordon, jeremy thomas, and

svp walt Disney michael andreen review the work

of vcuQatar students and alumna.

vcuQatar students fatima mousa Zainal and nawar

adel al-mutlaq at the cannes lions international

advertising festival.

26 27

proviDing a global experience

fuDan uniVersity collaBorations

In 2010, MFA students and faculty collabo-

rated with students from Fudan University,

Shanghai, China to produce a series of video

vignettes that presented stereotypes and

facts about food in Arabic and Chinese

cultures. VCUQatar students traveled to

Shanghai at the end of May to meet with

their collaborators at Fudan University and

visit the Shanghai Expo. The overall theme of

the project was Eating Design, a discipline

that positions food as an edible, designed

product that is ergonomic, functional, com-

municative, interactive, visionary but radically

contemporary and timeless at the same time.

Renowned eating designer Marije Vogelzang,

was a guest workshop leader for the MFA

students during the semester.

stuDent exchanges BetWeen richMonD anD Qatar

This year the Qatar and Richmond

Foundation Programs created a student

exchange experience for ten selected students

from both campuses. The exchange, during

their respective spring breaks, was a new

initiative with a focus on freshmen students

working collaboratively to bridge cultural,

geographic and national barriers. In addition

to studio workshops, the visit also included

museum visits and a gala dinner hosted by

the Qatari Embassy in Washington, DC. The

student outcomes and interactions made the

program a success and will be a future model

of exchange.

international learning oPPortunities

VCUQatar students participated in a variety

of study abroad trips. Interior Design took

15 students to london and Dubai; Graphic

Design took 20 students to Japan and

lebanon and Fashion Design took 18

students to Italy. Five students and five

alumni also participated in the Islamic Art

Symposium in Cordoba, Spain.

Student Affairs supported six International

internships through money raised by the

community programs: Ahmed El Sayed with

Thrown ltd in Riga, latvia; Selina Farooqui

with Isabel Toledo in new york; zarmina Qazi

with Arcanoid Architects in Thessaloniki,

Greece; Carla Mallari Feral Childe in

new york; Esra Sharab with Arzu Kaprol in

Istanbul, Turkey; Bekita Mubarak Muwangua

with Arzu Kaprol in Istanbul, Turkey.

Qatari student Davood anwari speaking with visiting vcu student. gD student hadir samir omar enjoys her visit to japan.

the Biennial haMaD Bin khalifa islaMic syMPosiuM

And Diverse Are Their hues: Color in Islamic

Art and Culture, the third biennial Hamad bin

Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art, was held

in Córdoba, Spain, november 2-4, 2009.

Sponsored by Virginia Commonwealth

University (VCU) School of the Arts, VCUQatar,

and the Qatar Foundation and organized by

co-chairs Sheila Blair and Jonathan Bloom,

the symposia explored broad issues in the

visual arts of the Islamic world. The fourth

symposium will be held in Doha in november

2011 in cooperation with the Museum of

Islamic Art.

hollyWooD coMes to Doha

VCUQatar hosted leading figures from the

world of film who were in Qatar as speak-

ers at the Financial Times Business of Film

Summit. Students presented their work and

had the opportunity to be critiqued by the

film legends. Mark Gordon, producer of The

Mark Gordon Company (films include Patriot,

Day After Tomorrow and 2012); Bill Mechanic,

founder, Pandemonium Films and former

chairman of Fox (films include Titanic,

Braveheart and the animation Coraline);

Jeremy Thomas CBE, producer and founder,

Recorded Picture Company and hanWay

Films (films include Crash and The Man

Who Killed Don Quixote); Ivan Dunleavy, chief

executive, Pinewood Shepperton plc. (films

include Sherlock holmes and Quantum of

Solace); Greg Coote, chairman and CEO, Dune

Entertainment (recently co-funded Avatar);

and Michael Andreen senior vice president,

International Production, Walt Disney were

in attendance.

stuDents attenD cannes lions international aDVertising festiVal 2010

The Cannes lions International Advertising

Festival is a global festival for those working

in advertising and related fields. The seven-

day festival, including the lions awards,

is held yearly at the Palais de Festivals in

Cannes, France. Q.Media generously provided

two full delegate passes to VCUQatar stu-

dents, Fatima Mousa zainal and nawar Adel

Al-Mutlaq, who attended all seminars, work-

shops, presentations and events. Students

were immersed in the international advertis-

ing world and returned to their studies with a

new pursuit of excellence among students.

marianna shreve simpson discusses the impact of the

color red “ahmar,” “surkh” and “kirmizi” in the history

of islamic art.

film producers mark gordon, jeremy thomas, and

svp walt Disney michael andreen review the work

of vcuQatar students and alumna.

vcuQatar students fatima mousa Zainal and nawar

adel al-mutlaq at the cannes lions international

advertising festival.

26 27

proviDing a global experience

Qatar racing anD eQuestrian cluB troPhy Winners

Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar

and the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club

(QREC) selected the VCUQatar student first

prize winner for the design of two trophies –

the Qatar Prix de l’ Arc de Triomphe and the

Qatar Arabian World Cup – two of the most

prestigious events organized by the QREC.

The winner for both designs was Abdulla

Al Gosaibi. For the Qatar Prix de l’ Arc de

Triomphe trophy design he used the Arc De

Triomphe of France and the Souq Waqif of

Qatar as the two influential and prominent

landmarks from both cultures and created

a fusion between the two. For the Qatar

Arabian World Cup trophy, Abdulla designed

a trophy with strong cultural elements from

the Qatari culture to give the trophy a unique

visual identity.

waffa al saffar (left) and abdulla al gusaibi (right) at

the tribeca film festival workshop in new york.

assistant professors Donald earley and kathleen

ferguson-huntington with Dean allyson vanstone.

vcuQatar student designed trophy is handed to the

Qatar prix de l’ arc de triomphe winner in paris.

stuDents join the triBeca filMMaker PrograM

Waffa Al Saffar, graphic design junior, and

Abdulla Al Gosaibi interior design junior,

joined six other young filmmakers from Qatar

at the Doha Tribeca Filmmaker program in

new york City. The filmmakers attended a

series of screenwriting workshops, Festival

events, film screenings, industry meetings,

and mentoring sessions. With the help of

notable film professionals, they executed a

ten minute short film from conception to

completion. The films were then presented

to Martin Scorsese and Robert De niro.

2009 DistinguisheD faculty achieVeMent aWarDs

VCUQatar Assistant Professor Kathleen

Ferguson huntington received the Distin-

guished Faculty Achievement Research

Award, and Donald Earley the Distinguished

Faculty Achievement Service Award. The

awards recognize individuals who have

distinguished themselves over a period of

years in service to the school, community,

profession, teaching and research. Both

faculty members were presented with

certificates and cash awards at the fall 2009

faculty and staff retreat. Recipients of the

Distinguished Achievement Awards are

nominated by a committee of their peers.

sheikha Mozah Bint nasser al MissneD scholarshiP

This year the design competition was

opened world-wide and VCUQatar received

176 applications, a record number, from 20

different countries most notably Argentina,

Bangladesh, Indonesia, nigeria, Ghana and

Kenya. The Sheikha Mozah Bint nasser

Al Missned Scholarship was awarded to

two students from the International School

of Al-Khor in Qatar: Marianne Janeen

Berrnejo and natasha larasati Bahri.

Best young Designer aWarD

Three students from VCUQatar won the

top three prizes in the Best young Designer

Awards at the International Furniture and

Design Exhibition & Awards (InFDEx) 2009,

sponsored by Qatari Diar. First prize in the

Best Piece of Furniture category went to Sara

Al Mulla. The Best Interior Space category

winner was Dima Masoud, and the award for

Best Presentation went to Maryam Al Kuwari.

eDucating future leaDers

exPanDing the honors PrograM

Working with Dr. Tim hulsey, Dean of the

honors College at VCURichmond, Byrad

yyelland, director of liberal Arts and Sciences,

and Patty Paine Gibbons, assistant professor

in English expanded the VCUQatar honors

program. As a result, VCUQatar graduated

seven students with University honors at its

May commencement ceremony: Sahar Mari,

Dima Ahmed Masoud, Esra Kazem, Esra

haytham Abduljawad, Miriam Magdy Kamel

Greiss, Elba Gabriela leon and Reem Talal

Al-Thani. The VCUQatar honors Program is

endorsed by the honors College in Richmond.

In order to qualify, students have to main-

tain a 3.5 GPA, complete 18 honors course

requirement credits, and submit a written

dossier scored by the VCU honors College.

first VcuQatar stuDent to Win Vcu leaDershiP aWarD

Sahar Mari, a graduate of VCUQatar’s class

of 2010, has been awarded a University lead-

ership Award from Virginia Commonwealth

University in Richmond, Virginia. The award

was presented to Ms. Mari during VCU’s

commencement ceremony in Richmond on

22 May, 2010. Sahar Mari is the first VCUQatar

student to be selected for this award, which

is presented to honors students who demon-

strate academic excellence, leadership, and

service. Ms Mari graduated with a double

major in graphic and fashion design with a

minor in art history and University honors.

students recognized by the 2009/2010

honors designation. sahar mari (left): winner of the vcu leadership award. 2009 best young Designer award recipients.

28 29

Qatar racing anD eQuestrian cluB troPhy Winners

Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar

and the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club

(QREC) selected the VCUQatar student first

prize winner for the design of two trophies –

the Qatar Prix de l’ Arc de Triomphe and the

Qatar Arabian World Cup – two of the most

prestigious events organized by the QREC.

The winner for both designs was Abdulla

Al Gosaibi. For the Qatar Prix de l’ Arc de

Triomphe trophy design he used the Arc De

Triomphe of France and the Souq Waqif of

Qatar as the two influential and prominent

landmarks from both cultures and created

a fusion between the two. For the Qatar

Arabian World Cup trophy, Abdulla designed

a trophy with strong cultural elements from

the Qatari culture to give the trophy a unique

visual identity.

waffa al saffar (left) and abdulla al gusaibi (right) at

the tribeca film festival workshop in new york.

assistant professors Donald earley and kathleen

ferguson-huntington with Dean allyson vanstone.

vcuQatar student designed trophy is handed to the

Qatar prix de l’ arc de triomphe winner in paris.

stuDents join the triBeca filMMaker PrograM

Waffa Al Saffar, graphic design junior, and

Abdulla Al Gosaibi interior design junior,

joined six other young filmmakers from Qatar

at the Doha Tribeca Filmmaker program in

new york City. The filmmakers attended a

series of screenwriting workshops, Festival

events, film screenings, industry meetings,

and mentoring sessions. With the help of

notable film professionals, they executed a

ten minute short film from conception to

completion. The films were then presented

to Martin Scorsese and Robert De niro.

2009 DistinguisheD faculty achieVeMent aWarDs

VCUQatar Assistant Professor Kathleen

Ferguson huntington received the Distin-

guished Faculty Achievement Research

Award, and Donald Earley the Distinguished

Faculty Achievement Service Award. The

awards recognize individuals who have

distinguished themselves over a period of

years in service to the school, community,

profession, teaching and research. Both

faculty members were presented with

certificates and cash awards at the fall 2009

faculty and staff retreat. Recipients of the

Distinguished Achievement Awards are

nominated by a committee of their peers.

sheikha Mozah Bint nasser al MissneD scholarshiP

This year the design competition was

opened world-wide and VCUQatar received

176 applications, a record number, from 20

different countries most notably Argentina,

Bangladesh, Indonesia, nigeria, Ghana and

Kenya. The Sheikha Mozah Bint nasser

Al Missned Scholarship was awarded to

two students from the International School

of Al-Khor in Qatar: Marianne Janeen

Berrnejo and natasha larasati Bahri.

Best young Designer aWarD

Three students from VCUQatar won the

top three prizes in the Best young Designer

Awards at the International Furniture and

Design Exhibition & Awards (InFDEx) 2009,

sponsored by Qatari Diar. First prize in the

Best Piece of Furniture category went to Sara

Al Mulla. The Best Interior Space category

winner was Dima Masoud, and the award for

Best Presentation went to Maryam Al Kuwari.

eDucating future leaDers

exPanDing the honors PrograM

Working with Dr. Tim hulsey, Dean of the

honors College at VCURichmond, Byrad

yyelland, director of liberal Arts and Sciences,

and Patty Paine Gibbons, assistant professor

in English expanded the VCUQatar honors

program. As a result, VCUQatar graduated

seven students with University honors at its

May commencement ceremony: Sahar Mari,

Dima Ahmed Masoud, Esra Kazem, Esra

haytham Abduljawad, Miriam Magdy Kamel

Greiss, Elba Gabriela leon and Reem Talal

Al-Thani. The VCUQatar honors Program is

endorsed by the honors College in Richmond.

In order to qualify, students have to main-

tain a 3.5 GPA, complete 18 honors course

requirement credits, and submit a written

dossier scored by the VCU honors College.

first VcuQatar stuDent to Win Vcu leaDershiP aWarD

Sahar Mari, a graduate of VCUQatar’s class

of 2010, has been awarded a University lead-

ership Award from Virginia Commonwealth

University in Richmond, Virginia. The award

was presented to Ms. Mari during VCU’s

commencement ceremony in Richmond on

22 May, 2010. Sahar Mari is the first VCUQatar

student to be selected for this award, which

is presented to honors students who demon-

strate academic excellence, leadership, and

service. Ms Mari graduated with a double

major in graphic and fashion design with a

minor in art history and University honors.

students recognized by the 2009/2010

honors designation. sahar mari (left): winner of the vcu leadership award. 2009 best young Designer award recipients.

28 29

rodney fitch of fitch worldwide evaluates projects

on retail interior space and branding with faculty

liam colquhoun.

mr. rashid ibrahim, Designer hicham lahlou, Dean

allyson vanstone, and Dr. fouad mrad judge the prime-

time design episode for the stars of science broadcast.

adjunct faculty linda (libby) smyth teaches jewelry

design as part of vcuQatar community class program.

VcuQatar stuDents collaBorate With fitch on retail Project

Junior Interior Design students collaborated

with Rodney Fitch, founder and chairperson

of Fitch Worldwide and Fitch Qatar, on a retail

project for Rotana stores. “Our thinking was

that as a design school we were very fortu-

nate to have a leading name in the industry

just a matter of a few yards away so we really

should explore the possibilities of how we

might interact in a more innovative way,” said

VCUQatar’s assistant professor of Interior

Design liam Colquhoun. “Our students are

getting an enormous amount of valuable

experience working in teams with creative

professionals and I hope the young design-

ers at Fitch are getting something out of the

experience too.

PrograM for the hearing iMPaireD

VCUQatar collaborated with the Qatari Center

for Culture for the Deaf to create an eleven

week arts enrichment program. Supported

by her highness Sheikha Mozah Bint nasser

Al Missned, this program enrolled 13 adult

learners from the hearing impaired community

to work with VCUQatar faculty members in

drawing and jewelry making while simultane-

ously joining community classes to improve

written Arabic skills. Students from VCUQatar

contributed to this program in the role of

teaching assistants and translators gaining

valuable experience and insight. The program

was so successful that it has been developed

into a certificate based program in which

hearing impaired students will gain experi-

ence in interior design and graphic design

programs while continuing to develop their

artistic skills.

fostering community involvement

Qf raDio Partners With VcuQatar for neW raDio shoW

QF Radio launched the radio talk show

Design Edition, a weekly show that focuses

on design-related matters, global trends in

design and the ways that VCUQatar is

helping to develop Qatar’s design industry.

The 45-minute show is produced and hosted

by Muneera Spence, chair of the Graphic

Design Department at VCUQatar, and Peter

Martin, associate professor of Graphic Design.

“Exploring the concept of the show with my

co-host Peter Martin has been an extraordi-

nary experience. It is a pleasure to bring our

experience with education and practice in

design together with our propensity to be

interdisciplinary, culminating in the explora-

tion of the power of design thinking and

making,” stated Muneera Spence.

suMMer art anD Design DiscoVery PrograM

This summer, VCUQatar hosted the Summer

Art and Design Discovery Program, which

is intended to allow design and art career-

oriented students a chance to create a

portfolio of work and explore the areas of

fashion, graphic, interior design and painting

& printmaking. The courses were segmented

into two parts: Summer Art Exploration

geared for students between the ages of 9-12

and Summer Design Discovery for students

between the ages of 15-17. The programs

culminated in an exhibition of student work

for families to view and enjoy. lesley Gray,

student affairs assistant, noted that “the

department plans to extend the program

next year based on feedback from students

and their families.”

VcuQatar stuDents collaBorate With Qatar MuseuMs authority

VCUQatar’s Senior Interior Design students

designed exhibition stations for a hypotheti-

cal Children’s Museum in Qatar, targeting

children between the ages of five and twelve.

The exhibition was to draw attention to

nutrition, which is a concern in the region

given the rate of increasing obesity among

children. The students were asked to create

an experimental learning experience. They

had to use materials with textures and

patterns that were child-friendly and invited

interaction. The stations had to be collapsible

and use acoustic control, lighting applica-

tions and air filters. The final presentation

was critiqued by Roger Mandle, executive

director of the Qatar Museums Authority

(QMA), Gayle Mandle, an interior designer

and Selma Thomas, senior advisor for

Museum Training and Interpretation, QMA

and other Interior Design faculty at VCUQatar.

alumna cynthia batir and hala akkawi support the

summer program for 9-12 year olds.

students present their concepts for a children’s

museum incorporating interactivity and healthy

eating habits

assistant professor peter martin, and chair of graphic

Design muneera spence, produce an episode of Design

edition with Qf radio producer john bullock.

30 31

stars of science anD VcuQatar

now in its second season, Stars of Science,

initiated by Qatar Foundation, is the first

Pan-Arab reality-TV program dedicated to

innovation, aiming to shine a spotlight on

the next generation of young Arab innovators.

Expanding on the faculty support provided

to the contestants during season one,

VCUQatar faculty shared design thinking,

process and collaboration with the 2010

Stars of Science contestants through various

workshops and project critiques, while the

dean joined the judges panel for the design

phase of the program.

rodney fitch of fitch worldwide evaluates projects

on retail interior space and branding with faculty

liam colquhoun.

mr. rashid ibrahim, Designer hicham lahlou, Dean

allyson vanstone, and Dr. fouad mrad judge the prime-

time design episode for the stars of science broadcast.

adjunct faculty linda (libby) smyth teaches jewelry

design as part of vcuQatar community class program.

VcuQatar stuDents collaBorate With fitch on retail Project

Junior Interior Design students collaborated

with Rodney Fitch, founder and chairperson

of Fitch Worldwide and Fitch Qatar, on a retail

project for Rotana stores. “Our thinking was

that as a design school we were very fortu-

nate to have a leading name in the industry

just a matter of a few yards away so we really

should explore the possibilities of how we

might interact in a more innovative way,” said

VCUQatar’s assistant professor of Interior

Design liam Colquhoun. “Our students are

getting an enormous amount of valuable

experience working in teams with creative

professionals and I hope the young design-

ers at Fitch are getting something out of the

experience too.

PrograM for the hearing iMPaireD

VCUQatar collaborated with the Qatari Center

for Culture for the Deaf to create an eleven

week arts enrichment program. Supported

by her highness Sheikha Mozah Bint nasser

Al Missned, this program enrolled 13 adult

learners from the hearing impaired community

to work with VCUQatar faculty members in

drawing and jewelry making while simultane-

ously joining community classes to improve

written Arabic skills. Students from VCUQatar

contributed to this program in the role of

teaching assistants and translators gaining

valuable experience and insight. The program

was so successful that it has been developed

into a certificate based program in which

hearing impaired students will gain experi-

ence in interior design and graphic design

programs while continuing to develop their

artistic skills.

fostering community involvement

Qf raDio Partners With VcuQatar for neW raDio shoW

QF Radio launched the radio talk show

Design Edition, a weekly show that focuses

on design-related matters, global trends in

design and the ways that VCUQatar is

helping to develop Qatar’s design industry.

The 45-minute show is produced and hosted

by Muneera Spence, chair of the Graphic

Design Department at VCUQatar, and Peter

Martin, associate professor of Graphic Design.

“Exploring the concept of the show with my

co-host Peter Martin has been an extraordi-

nary experience. It is a pleasure to bring our

experience with education and practice in

design together with our propensity to be

interdisciplinary, culminating in the explora-

tion of the power of design thinking and

making,” stated Muneera Spence.

suMMer art anD Design DiscoVery PrograM

This summer, VCUQatar hosted the Summer

Art and Design Discovery Program, which

is intended to allow design and art career-

oriented students a chance to create a

portfolio of work and explore the areas of

fashion, graphic, interior design and painting

& printmaking. The courses were segmented

into two parts: Summer Art Exploration

geared for students between the ages of 9-12

and Summer Design Discovery for students

between the ages of 15-17. The programs

culminated in an exhibition of student work

for families to view and enjoy. lesley Gray,

student affairs assistant, noted that “the

department plans to extend the program

next year based on feedback from students

and their families.”

VcuQatar stuDents collaBorate With Qatar MuseuMs authority

VCUQatar’s Senior Interior Design students

designed exhibition stations for a hypotheti-

cal Children’s Museum in Qatar, targeting

children between the ages of five and twelve.

The exhibition was to draw attention to

nutrition, which is a concern in the region

given the rate of increasing obesity among

children. The students were asked to create

an experimental learning experience. They

had to use materials with textures and

patterns that were child-friendly and invited

interaction. The stations had to be collapsible

and use acoustic control, lighting applica-

tions and air filters. The final presentation

was critiqued by Roger Mandle, executive

director of the Qatar Museums Authority

(QMA), Gayle Mandle, an interior designer

and Selma Thomas, senior advisor for

Museum Training and Interpretation, QMA

and other Interior Design faculty at VCUQatar.

alumna cynthia batir and hala akkawi support the

summer program for 9-12 year olds.

students present their concepts for a children’s

museum incorporating interactivity and healthy

eating habits

assistant professor peter martin, and chair of graphic

Design muneera spence, produce an episode of Design

edition with Qf radio producer john bullock.

30 31

stars of science anD VcuQatar

now in its second season, Stars of Science,

initiated by Qatar Foundation, is the first

Pan-Arab reality-TV program dedicated to

innovation, aiming to shine a spotlight on

the next generation of young Arab innovators.

Expanding on the faculty support provided

to the contestants during season one,

VCUQatar faculty shared design thinking,

process and collaboration with the 2010

Stars of Science contestants through various

workshops and project critiques, while the

dean joined the judges panel for the design

phase of the program.

architect joy monice malnar presents a lecture entitled

stepping toward sensory Design.

iraqi calligrapher wissam shawkat presenting a lecture entitled

calligraphy: tradition to contemporary practice.

gallery exhibition the Design of Dissent by mirko ilic and milton glaser.

william Dalrymple lectures on “white mughals” the improbable romance between

james kirkpatrick and khair-un nisa.

vcuQatar kicks off a month long celebration of asian arts with the opening

of the exhibit india east west- age of Discovery in georgian india.

a Destination for Dialogue

32 33

renowned graphic designer mirko ilic presenting an opening lecture and the film

screening of to inform and Delight: the work of milton glaser.

The launch of our newly formed spring lecture series included Martin

Venezky, Appetite Engineers: Inventing Visual language Through

Process and Discovery; Joy Monice Malnar, Stepping Toward Sensory

Design; Stefano Mirti, Design for a low Cost World; and Ike Rust,

halycon Daze: Uncovering the language of Designing. Dutch designer

Marije Vogelzang and renowned calligrapher Wissam Shawkut gave

additional presentations and workshops.

Under leadership of Dr. Jochen Sokoly, the VCUQatar lecture series

Arts and Architecture of the Islamic World presented the fifth season

of speakers. Dr. Oliver Watson, director of the Museum of Islamic Art,

Doha presented The Doha Ivory Box: Fabulous or Fake?; Professor

Paula Sanders, dean of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies and profes-

sor of history at Rice University, houston presented Texts and textiles:

thinking historically about material culture in the medieval Islamic

world; and Rochelle Kessler, independent scholar from los Angeles,

California presented About zain Al-Din: Painting and Painters in India

under the East India Company.

2009/2010 exhiBition anD lecture series

Throughout the year, VCUQatar produces and hosts a number of

dynamic and diverse gallery exhibitions and public lectures, which are

open to the general public.

The year started off with a retrospective exhibition on the renowned

Qatari artist Ali hassan, curated by Dr. Abdulla Al-Thani and Dr. Jochen

Sokoly in collaboration with Al-Markhiya Gallery in Doha. “The Design

of Dissent,” a groundbreaking exhibition curated by Milton Glaser and

Mirko Ilic started off the Spring Semester.

In March, the gallery exhibited InDIA: East|West, which looked at the

interface between cultures in India at the end of the 18th century, and

was based on the collections of paintings, drawings and prints of the

Royal Asiatic Society, london. The exhibition was opened by the Indian

Ambassador to Qatar and accompanied by a number of events that

considered aspects of the exhibition. The author William Dalrymple pre-

sented a lecture on his award winning book “White Mughals” looking at

the period in which most of the works in the exhibition were produced.

architect joy monice malnar presents a lecture entitled

stepping toward sensory Design.

iraqi calligrapher wissam shawkat presenting a lecture entitled

calligraphy: tradition to contemporary practice.

gallery exhibition the Design of Dissent by mirko ilic and milton glaser.

william Dalrymple lectures on “white mughals” the improbable romance between

james kirkpatrick and khair-un nisa.

vcuQatar kicks off a month long celebration of asian arts with the opening

of the exhibit india east west- age of Discovery in georgian india.

a Destination for Dialogue

32 33

renowned graphic designer mirko ilic presenting an opening lecture and the film

screening of to inform and Delight: the work of milton glaser.

The launch of our newly formed spring lecture series included Martin

Venezky, Appetite Engineers: Inventing Visual language Through

Process and Discovery; Joy Monice Malnar, Stepping Toward Sensory

Design; Stefano Mirti, Design for a low Cost World; and Ike Rust,

halycon Daze: Uncovering the language of Designing. Dutch designer

Marije Vogelzang and renowned calligrapher Wissam Shawkut gave

additional presentations and workshops.

Under leadership of Dr. Jochen Sokoly, the VCUQatar lecture series

Arts and Architecture of the Islamic World presented the fifth season

of speakers. Dr. Oliver Watson, director of the Museum of Islamic Art,

Doha presented The Doha Ivory Box: Fabulous or Fake?; Professor

Paula Sanders, dean of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies and profes-

sor of history at Rice University, houston presented Texts and textiles:

thinking historically about material culture in the medieval Islamic

world; and Rochelle Kessler, independent scholar from los Angeles,

California presented About zain Al-Din: Painting and Painters in India

under the East India Company.

2009/2010 exhiBition anD lecture series

Throughout the year, VCUQatar produces and hosts a number of

dynamic and diverse gallery exhibitions and public lectures, which are

open to the general public.

The year started off with a retrospective exhibition on the renowned

Qatari artist Ali hassan, curated by Dr. Abdulla Al-Thani and Dr. Jochen

Sokoly in collaboration with Al-Markhiya Gallery in Doha. “The Design

of Dissent,” a groundbreaking exhibition curated by Milton Glaser and

Mirko Ilic started off the Spring Semester.

In March, the gallery exhibited InDIA: East|West, which looked at the

interface between cultures in India at the end of the 18th century, and

was based on the collections of paintings, drawings and prints of the

Royal Asiatic Society, london. The exhibition was opened by the Indian

Ambassador to Qatar and accompanied by a number of events that

considered aspects of the exhibition. The author William Dalrymple pre-

sented a lecture on his award winning book “White Mughals” looking at

the period in which most of the works in the exhibition were produced.

MeMBers of the joint aDVisory BoarD 2009/2010

co chair

Richard Toscan, Ph.D.

Dean, vcuarts

vice provost international affairs, vcu

co chair

H.E. Sheikh Hamad Nasser Al Thani, Ph.D.

general manager of the Qatar Development bank

and chairman of the Qatari-german company for

medical Devices

Ahmed Hasnah, Ph.D.

associate vice president for education, Qatar

foundation

Roger Mandle, Ph.D.

executive Director, Qatar museums authority

John Bennett

senior vice president finance and administration,

vcu

David Ross

general counsel, vcu

Samuel Hoi

president, otis college of art and Design

Jeffrey Nesin

president, memphis college of art and Design

Mohamed Zakariya

calligrapher, Zakariya calligraphy

vcuQatar’s remarkable achievements would not have been

possible without the generosity of our donors who contributed

their time, talent and gifts to make the university the success

it is today. it is this thoughtfulness that will allow vcuQatar to

continue on its journey of creativity and innovation.

thank you

stuDent scholarshiPs & grants

abdullah abdulghani and brothers company

arab engineering bureau

the education city central library

the Qatar racing and equestrian club

Q. media

34

table o�f co�ntents

1 Dean’s message

2 cultiVating Design thinking

6 Design for social impact

12 BuilDing a Design inDustry: amal al-mehain, iD ’2003

16 creating an enVironment for Design

18 the year in numBers

20 graDuation 2010

26 proViDing a gloBal experience

28 eDucating future leaDers

30 fostering community inVolVement

32 a Destination for Dialogue

34 thank you

CreDits

Virginia commonwealth university in Qatar

the annual report is published annually by the office of communications.

we welcome your comments. please send them to mckaan@qatar.vcu.edu

editor: meike kaan

writer: priya lorraine Dominica D’souza

Design: cameron neat

photography: markus elblaus

contributors: constantin Boym, peter chomowicz, moamer Qazafi, roman turczyn

line ulrika christiansen, patty gibbons

copy editor: Dawn waters, nadia abu Dayeh

translator: adel Jamal awad

annual repo�rt | 2009-2010

Virginia

commonwealth

uniVersity

in qatar

an

nu

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