bfa & mfa exhibition 2015
DESCRIPTION
Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar's annual graduate exhibition catalogueTRANSCRIPT
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EXHIBITION 3 23 MAY 201
5 VCUQATAR
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CO
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4deans
statement
6fashion
design
40 graphic
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84interior
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118painting &
printmaking
132design
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On behalf of Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, it is my
pleasure to present the class of 2014.
At VCUQatar we understand the significant expectations that
stand before our graduates when they enter professional roles in
Qatar, the region and throughout the world. We prepare them for
that future.
Our graduates have learned to engage in ideas through demanding
creative processes that require research, collaboration, innovation,
fabrication, visualization and courage.
As educators, we recognize that the university experience is
transformational and that learning continues past graduation.
The transition from university to the next stage in life opens up
new opportunities for our graduates. We trust in their intellectual
and creative abilities to help them achieve all they envision, while
continuing to learn with each new challenge.
I would like to thank Qatar Foundation and Her Highness Sheikha
Moza bint Nasser whose commitment to education supports the
incredible opportunities our students have been privileged to enjoy.
Allyson Vanstone
Dean
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FASHION DESIGN
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Fashion Thesis Collection
Textile
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AISHAAL SUWAIDI
Expressing myself in the form of fashion,
to me, is the utmost idea of Art. Being
a shy, introvert my whole life, I found
myself constantly struggling with ways of
expressing my ideas and passions. Fashion, I
found, rapidly became an outlet where I can
express myself and show my true passion.
Inspired by springs bloom, this collection
was created with pastel colors that reflect
lightness and innocence. The fabrics and
colors chosen are the essence of spring
with the floral beading and light colored
polka dots. The unique pieces presented in
this collection reflect my passion for 1960s
fashion with a modern twist. The classic
with modern twist characteristic reflects
my personality as a designer.
In a more general outlook, fashion has
eternally been one of the most effective
forms of expression. Throughout the years,
we have been able to interpret history
through different cultures fashion. From
the gothic influence in the Romantic era,
to the Victorian era, and more recently the
Hollywood Glamour era up to the present,
fashion has been able to tell its own story
throughout history. The immense influence
fashion has as a form of expression has
always been my inspiration and drive as a
designer and fueled my continued interest
in fashion.
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DYLONADONIS
Once a wall or border is put in place, we
separate ourselves from our surroundings.
We continue to focus on our differences and
only mix with the individuals inside the walls.
However, nature knows no bounds. A wall
does not stop a bird from flying over and
a border does not prevent an insect from
crawling into a different country; yet a wall
and border sometimes stop us. Conflicts
arise amongst people due to the different
borders and walls set in place; we divide and
stick to our differences as we kill our fellow
species over a border determined hundreds
of years ago. We ought to follow natures
wisdom and stop raising walls to separate
not only us from nature, but also, us from
one another.
As I look back at my present and previous
design pieces, there remains one constant
elementnature. From my first sketch as a
child, to my latest collection, I have always
drawn upon nature for inspiration. Moreover,
there is an underlining desire for humans
and nature to coexist.
My senior collection embodies the triggered
metamorphosis found in nature when
the young blithe animals evolve into a
more guarded, reserved being. In essence,
our lives follow the same standard as
we age and society no longer deems
certain characteristics appropriate. We
start off being creative, innovative and
contemporary but morph into products of
what society deems apt. My collection is
not a social statement to stand against
societys expectations but, instead, serves
as a reminder of the sequence of events.
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KINDAMORSHED
Film and theater productions are not just
an act of entertainment to me. I view them
as other realms, created by the most fertile
imaginative minds, into which we escape
from the dullness of our own world. I have
always favored period and fantasy movies.
Period movies in my world are time capsules
that take us back to simpler times free from
the imprisoning bars of technology that
surround us nowadays. Back to times when
people really appreciated beauty and gave
true value to the meaning of life. Fantasy
movies snip us from our reality to places
where all is possible and you get to walk
along flying fairies in enchanted gardens
amongst magical creatures, greeted by the
roses to your side.
Evil Queens are princesses that were never
saved. When I read this quote it completely
twisted the sanctity of fairytales for me,
carrying me to the other side of the river
where I became an admirer of Evil Queens,
and with that, my muse has always been the
strong, powerful woman, one who doesnt
need but is rather needed.
Women, in my opinion are Gods most
beautiful creation, and so my silhouette
is the delicate female body, with a little
bit of magic dust, executed with vintage
techniques from classic days. Those were
the ingredients that harmoniously worked in
creating my collection: Elizabeth.Haunted.
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MALIABENNETTHENRY
Growing up, I found that the best way
I could express myself was through art.
Four years at VCUQatar brought me
to the knowledge that I am a designer
of activismthat my forte is to bring
my designs into contact with personal
messages of struggle. It is,
I have come to know, who I am. For my final
collection, I feel it is necessary to follow
through with this theme.
This collection discusses a topic that society
continues to keep hiddendepression. It is a
very common disorder riddled with societal
miscomprehension and personal guilt and
self-judgment. It depicts the different stages
of depressionhow it slowly consumes a
persons very beingfrom the inner physical
pain to the point when nothingness prevails.
The expressive Jackson Pollack-like print was
created using the monoprinting pressa
collaboration with two students from the
painting and printmaking department.
Each print is unique and slowly progresses to
angrier and more manic lines. Using knit
meant that it would be constricting but still
comfortable. It is based on the idea that
while depression is unbearable, the sufferer
becomes so used to dealing with it that it
becomes a crutch, a sort of safety blanket.
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MARWAAL SAID
Motivation is the fuel for our greatness; and
I was motivated by the glory of NYC for my
F/W 2015 collection. I breathed the freshest
air while observing the colorful nature and
absorbing the unique sense of fashion in
every social class.
Attire does not represent class or status.
I realized this in the magnificent city
while looking at street-style; it was an eye
opening experience. I noticed elements from
fashion through the decades incorporated
in a modern way. In addition, the city added
its own print that still influences fashion
to date.
I find inspiration in the smallest and most
unique details of my surroundings. I fell
in love with the prevalent and minuscule
features of the Big Apple; from the lights of
Time Square to the camouflage colors of an
old trees trunk in Central Park.
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MARYAMAL DARWISH
The best designers are usually the ones
who pay attention to the smallest details.
As a fashion design student I have
always been precise in designing and
producing garments.
For my senior collection, I am working on my
own individual style which is playful yet
emphasizes attention to detail and precision
that I enjoy. It is a very experimental
collection, with several different contrasting
details. This is achieved by mixing
oversized abstract floral prints with solids,
experimenting with volume and unusual
edgy cuts.
Aside from university I have a business of
making and selling handmade accessories. I
established MBMs Collection four years ago
and have found a large interest from the
Qatari market. The skills and experience I
gained from university and my own business
has enriched my knowledge and abilities in
the field of fashion.
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SORAYATESCHNER
I had wanted to be an architect, and so
I grew up doing sculpture, making furniture
and woodworking. My father was a
philosophy professor so I grew up asking a
lot of questions. Fashion seemed
to be the place where I could solve them
creatively. I wanted to ask: What is sacred?
What is feminine? What is powerful?
What is timeless?
I probably have read the following quote by
the writer Carlos Castaneda a million times:
The spirit of a warrior is not geared to
indulging and complaining, nor is it geared
to winning or losing. The spirit of a warrior
is geared only to struggle, and every
struggle is a warriors last battle on earth.
Thus the outcome matters very little to
him. In his last battle on earth a warrior
lets his spirit flow free and clear. And as he
wages his battle, knowing that his intent is
impeccable, a warrior laughs and laughs.
I wanted to create an image of a modern
warrior, a new image of strength that was
soft, feminine and even romantic. The
virtues that are embodied in the warrior are
courage, honesty, humor and a sense of
tranquility. I aimed to express these virtues
in the quality of the fabric, in the shape
and size of sculptural forms in belts, hoods,
collars, pleats, skirts, seams and hemlines.
The virtue of the romantic is expressed in
the play of design elements that reveal
and conceal the body beneath the cloth,
its strength, gracefulness and movement.
Knitwear allows the fabric to move with
the body, and elements of leather unite
strength and softness. The silhouettes
of this collection suggest the armor of a
warrior while retaining the curves and lines
of the female.
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TAMADERAL SULTAN
Up until now, my life has been structured.
Ever since teachers in elementary school
started asking us about our career path,
I knew I wanted to become an artist
who creates beautiful art. As I grew up, I
developed an affinity towards fashion. I was
able to see the art, passion and limitlessness
of fashion. Consequently, I finalized my
decision to be a part of the VCUQatar
community to study fashion design; I
planned my future and I knew exactly where
I was going.
Here I am, a senior in fashion design at
VCUQatar, an almost graduate. This is
the furthest I could plan for myself and
this is where my plan stops. Finally, as I am
now free of the plan, I have a myriad of
options lying on the table for me I could
do anything; I can be anything.
My senior collection is a metaphorical
representation of my journey. In my four
years at VCUQatar I had been planting
this seed, and growing it, until it finally
blossomed, and now it is spring, my spring.
This is the spring where I give myself the
chance to bloom and to explore.
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As you graduate, we cherish the bonds that we
have forged through experiences in teaching
and learning. We look to this class to change
the world! You are well prepared with knowledge,
that of the theoretical underpinnings that
will guide your communication realizations.
We are cheering you on in this next stage of
your careers.
Muneera Spence
Chair, Graphic Design Department
Read more, eat less sugar, Facebook less, dream
big, take risks, and never stop trying. Dreams
only come true if you pursue them. No matter
how dark a tunnel is, theres always light at the
end of it!
Basma Hamdy
Assistant Professor
Congratulations Class of 2014! Your future
endeavors are guided by the belief that design
can make a positive impact and that you can
be the change. Treasure whatever comes your
way and cherish each stage of the journey.
Wishing you a future filled with happiness
and success!
Denielle Emans
Assistant Professor
Sustain your culture and support your
community through design. Your growth as
critical and creative collaborators will enable you
to navigate new opportunities with confidence
and innovation. You are valuable assets to
the local and global creative domain. You are
remarkable young designers!
Diane Mikhael
Assistant Professor
I believe your talents are full of promise and
surprise that will take you to great places in life
go out there and design your future. It will be a
struggle, at times, but nothing really worth it is
easy. It has been a pleasure. Congratulations!
Law Alsobrook
Assistant Professor
We have given you the tools to start on the path
you choose. Remember, you can accomplish so
much by keeping in touch with everyone who
has been with you at VCUQatar. This will feed
your potential, as a designer, in the development
of Qatar. Treat every day as a learning
experience. Wishing you the best.
Leland Hill
Assistant Professor
I am proud to see these students grow into
designers who recognize the significance of
their creative force that can act to make critical
changes in people, and a positive impact in
the world.
Levi Hammett
Assistant Professor
Congratulations! Graphic Design seniors. Ive
enjoyed getting to know all of you over the past
three years. You all have creative personalities
that come through in your work. As you move
forward, dont give in to the expected way of
doing things; keep being a little weird, fun and
great things will happen.
Michael Hersrud
Assistant Professor
These graduates bring us closer to a society
in which inspired young people apply design
processes to innovate sustainable value-
based information, narratives, identities,
and interactions that support the health,
wealth, and wisdom of its individuals, families,
communities, and environment.
Peter Martin
Assistant Professor
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AISHAAL THANI
Being a graphic designer has made me
discover aspects about myself that have
been enriched and brought to surface.
Graphic design has instilled in me the value
and passion to explore creativity, which
can lead to limitless experimentation that
is barely controllable. However, throughout
my journey in this field, my approaches and
appreciation for individuality and innovation
have increased. I have learned to take on
challenges and find solutions to problems
through visual communication while staying
true to myself.
This is important because our environment
is constantly changing, and with the
pervasive attempts of globalization it is
difficult to hold on to our individual history
and goals for our society.
It is imperative that we advance our
technologies, but keep our objectives clear
and our values grounded because our identity
is something we do not want to lose.
Autobiography
Print
14.8 x 21 cm
Spring 2013
Finding a solution to a problem might cause
another, but the graphic design process
involves discovering, analyzing and solving
problems that overcome obstacles through
visual learning.
This is why I want to keep on the energy and
ambition to design, because Im inspired
by my surroundings. Im enthusiastic to
encourage others to design and develop
innovative concepts that progress Qatars
creative industry.
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AISHARASHEED
I learned the importance of communication
while living in Paris. I realized that graphic
designers are often anonymous designers
as they create everyday things to enhance
someone elses day, thoughts and actions.
Unfortunately, graphic designers are not
rewarded for their work because good
design happens without anyone noticing.
When I entered Charles De Gaulle airport,
I reached my destination without trouble.
I never stopped to observe how and why
that happened. In fact, I reached my
destination because thoughtful time has
been put in choosing the colors and Frutiger
as a typeface for the way finding system. It
was then that I realized my desire to pursue
Graphic design as a career. I was interested
in identifying problems and creatively
designing solutions for them. Perhaps the
solutions I create would not be detectable
to non-experienced designers, however,
meticulous planning and effort goes into
creating work that serves its purpose.
Nuqtah
Mixed Media
20 x 20 cm
Spring 2013
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AL ANOUDAL SUWAIDI
Design is a process of both an action and
reaction. Successful design, for me, is
found in the observation of what works and
what doesnt and how the application of
design thinking can modify something for
the better. It is important for designers to
understand the environment they are
a part of. We assess the needs of the
users of an environment and through
the application of the concepts of design
try to create something that is useful
and influential.
As a student of design, I have developed
an understanding of my role as designer
and the direct influence and relationship
between my work and the audience.
Good design, I have discovered, should be
creative, clear and engaging to an audience
so that the communication the designer
aims to deliver is understood. As a young
designer in Qatar, my role will be to devise
contemporary reflections of my culture
that present what good design can and
should be. It is my intention to contribute
to the on-going and developing identity
of my country and its culture, all the while
sustaining her core values through the
processes of design and design thinking.
Occasions (teacup collection)
Digital Print
22 x 25 cm
Spring 2013
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AL MAHAAL KUWARI
As a designer I take a pragmatic approach
to every problem I encounter. I see design as
an opportunity to not only solve meaningful
problems, but also to explore poetic and
expressive solutions.
As a process, I incorporate my passion
for art and craft into each of my design
projects as a way to achieve unique work
with a strong impact. In its best form,
design guides the viewer towards a different
state of mind that can change behaviors in
a positive way. In this sense, it plays a crucial
role in our lives, a role in which I want to
take part.
CMYK Calendar
Poster
84 x 84 cm
Fall 2011
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DANIAJALEES
As a graphic designer, I find great power in
working towards a joint vision with others.
Working collaboratively enables me to
gain valuable insight and new perspectives
through exchanges with my peers. Within
my design process, I keep an open mind and
allow room for intuitive processes to emerge.
This approach enables me to investigate new
ideas that can be expressed through my own
unique and unusual visual language. Although
the work I create may seem a bit peculiar
or playful on the surface, the meaning
embedded into the work challenges the user
to look at a situation differently.
I approach projects without limits and
mediums, and instead let the process lead
to unexpected results. This has allowed
me to explore a variety of possibilities, and
helped me channel my thinking into short
animations, printed media, games, and
interactive experiences. In my opinion, graphic
design should help shape the world we live in
to be a better place. To achieve these results,
however, one might have to take the path
least traveled.
Antidote (Card Game)
Print
11.4 x 9.6 cm
Fall 2013
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FILZAKHAN
Dialogue: having conversations with qatar
Digital Publication
1024 by 768 px
Fall 2013
Globalization and technology are creating
a world in which languages and cultures
are being shared through an increasing
flow of information. Paradoxically, this
discourages meaningful communication
and understandings within our communities.
In our attempts to manage this
overwhelming amount of information we
find ourselves often adopting stereotypical
ideas of one another that do not support a
well-founded empathy for each other.
Because I am an individual who has lived
within two different societies, I am curious of
how people communicate and understand
each other within the social context. Back
home in the Philippines, I was taught that
education is the key to move forward
with your life. I have seen less privileged
individuals walk for hours just to go to
school and study at night in the darkness.
These people have strived to attain a formal
education as a means to elevate their social
standing. When my family migrated to
Qatar, I became a part of a society with a
more rigid structure.
I realized that this social structure was
facilitated by persistent stereotypes that
force people to interact with one another in
a less compassionate way.
During the course of my education, I have
become increasingly aware of how the
entrenched social hierarchy has created a
society where diversity is more of a hindrance
than an asset that can be utilized to make
this country achieve its own aspirations more
effectively. I feel that individual members of
this society can address this issue by finding
ways to communicate more authentically
across existing social boundaries. By utilizing
my communication design knowledge, I have
begun to explore ways that we can change
the flow of communities to transcend the
stereotypes and empower each one of us to
develop understandings that acknowledge
the value and potential that each of us has.
My design education has inspired within
me a mission to utilize this knowledge to
help people connect and work with each
other without prejudices, assumptions
or miscommunications.
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GHADAAL SUWAIDI
Treasure
Water color, Digital
20.5 x 20.5 cm
Fall 2014
If you asked me what graphic design was
four years ago, I would answer:
making posters and logos using a digital
medium. But if you ask me today, I will tell
you that graphic design is so much more.
It covers everything from social problem
solving to constructing sophisticated
messages. I learned that design itself is the
act of looking at a problem from different
perspectives, and creating a meaningful and
lasting solution.
Throughout my years studying graphic
design, I developed a passion for book
design, print, branding, typography and
video making. I have experimented with
different mediums through a variety of
projects. Not only did graphic design allow
me to discover new interests, but it also
allowed me to combine one of my hobbies,
which is illustrating, with graphic design and
discover new possibilities as a result. I am
able to do this through my picture book,
Treasure, a story about a boy in search of a
treasure who develops new friendships along
the way, which, in the end, turn out to be
the real treasure.
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HALAHAMAD
Decoding A Culture
Digital Publication
42 x 59.4 cm
Fall 2013
Becoming a graphic designer changed a lot
about how I view and practice life. Exploring
systems in design gave me the ability to
deconstruct any idea, product, or even
culture only to recreate it in a new original
way. System design helps people view ideas
from a whole new perspective. It shines a
light on things people would never think
about. The beauty of design is that it could
easily help highlight a concept that could be
considered marginal only to make it more
attractive and interesting.
As an Adult Third Culture Kid myself, I tend
to always address design in a universal
way. I do think about the significance of
my own culture and heritage but I always
end up integrating stories of all types and
backgrounds. With a big imagination I tend
to address cultures that contribute the most
diverse tales to the world. Living in Doha
challenges the mainstream vision of western
graphic design as Qatar contains the
traditional aspect of art in addition to the
modernity that was brought by its openness
to the rest of the world.
Moreover, the large expat community that
one would meet everyday showcases this
diversity through their upbringing and their
global experiences. This contributes to the
designers personality making graphic design
a global career that I take pride in practicing.
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LOLWAAL MOHANNADI
Entqlna Children Book
Digital Print
28.28 x 20 x 2 cm
Fall 2014
I am Interested in illustrations and designing
playful games and products for young kids.
Sometimes, I like to involve culture into
my designs, since I believe it is part of who
I am. However, even when designing for
culture, I still believe it should be playful,
and fun so people from different ages can
enjoy and learn about their own culture
or other cultures. Storytelling can be a
way of showing different elements of a
culture, since our culture consist of who
we are and who we were and the different
experiences we go through; it is a story by
itself. Illustrating stories to tell about our
culture, what we eat, what we do, and
even how we speak, can help in keeping our
culture the same as it is to be taught to
this generation and the generations ahead.
Dialog to me is also a main part of our
culture, since in the arab region, we have
different ways of speaking between one
country to another. Therefore, in designing
cultural stories for kids or adults, I decide to
use the Qatari dialog instead of the formal
Arabic language.
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MACKCORTEL
One Day As A Lion
Digital Print
59.4 x 84.1 cm
Spring 2014
As a child growing up, I found myself
interested in design and art in general.
It motivates my mind to think and explore.
I always looked at design as my outlet
for freedom of expression and creativity,
through the art of communicating my
concepts and visual identity.
I entered this university with an open mind.
Seeking for opportunities to be fluent
with this language of design. Wanting to
learn more and look at design for what it
is. I have realized that design is actually
not about making, but rather translating
words into ideas, merging thoughts into
concepts, incorporating functionality into
aesthetics and bridging, creative and
perceptive thinking.
This experience has taught me a lot of
things. Through my ups and (mostly) downs,
from one project to the other, from my mind
to the computer, from screen to printer
and from printer to paper, design never
failed to amuse me as its process naturally
unfolds before me. My love for design grew
despite the challenges that could have
discouraged me along the way. I believe this
love will continue to grow as I accumulate
experiences, good or bad, as long as it is
related to design, I will love every bit of it no
matter what.
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Design, and especially Graphic Design,
exists all around us, without our recognizing
it! It exists on our tiny mobile screens,
all over the living room, and even in the
nearest supermarket. A designer not only
works in the design field, but also is a good
collaborator who can work in all fields, in
order to solve problems, in creative, yet
simple ways.
Im interested in contributing to the
environment that I belong to. I recognized
that most of my influential projects turned
out to be about Qatar! I always try to
present Qatar, report on our rich culture,
and enhance our identity throughout
my projects.
I designed this identity for Souq Waqif,
inspired by the elegant architecture of the
place and after finding the need for a visual
system that can unify it visually. I designed
the identity to showcase our cultural
character and uniqueness, educate visitors
in a subtle way, as well as strengthen the
connection between us Qataris and the souq
itself. Now, and throughout my last semester
at VCUQ, Ive been working to analyze and
redefine what makes Qatar what it is today
in 2015.
Souq Waqif's Visual Identity
Mixed Media
N/A
Fall 2014
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MARAMAL ABDULLA
Digital Print
29.7 x 21 cm
Fall 2014
A designer who admires culture and tradition,
I used to do and say everything that my
grandmother did. My mother always said that
her grandmother deserved the best. My book,
(What Amoon will do?), captures the tradition and the pattern of my
life. Similarly, my style in my designs is a hybrid
between the past and the present.
My mother is a treasure from whom I have
learned to speak. That is why I always focus
on the Arabic language and typography in my
work. To help the audience understand and
appreciate the project, sometimes I make a
design decision to use bilingual language to fit
the viewers needs.
I am the person who divides my life into two
parts: my home and my education. In my four
years of studies I designed different things,
but I feel that I excelled at designing childrens
books that include illustration and typography,
and I also prevailed at creating systems that
are innovative and simplistic.
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MARIAMAL JUFAIRI
Graphic designers have a voice that not
many people have. It is a part of our job to
use that voice in order to create a major
impact in the world. Throughout my years
as a student, I have been fortunate enough
to have been given limitless opportunities
to use my various skills in order to design
with impact.
Being a graphic designer in an Islamic
and conservative part of the world, I have
learned a great deal about the importance
of always taking the audience into
consideration when designing. One design
can trigger a series of diverse emotions
in different people, which leads me to my
thesis topic, emotions. Are the emotions
that we feel an accurate representation of
who we are as human beings? Or can they
be a reminder of who we can or want to be?
These are all thought-provoking questions
that take a great deal of design thinking
and problem solving to answer, and I would
not have been able to answer them, had it
not been for my education at VCUQatar.
Reveal
Mixed Media
400 x 100 x 200 cm
Spring 2014
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MOHAMMADJAWAD
Farm to Landfill
Digital Print
59.4 x 84.1cm (A1)
Fall 2014
In a world where everyone strives to be
perfect, I find beauty in imperfection by
deconstructing the subtle details and
making meaning of the mundane. As a
designer, I indulge in spontaneity and
experimentation with unconventional
materials and media, fabricating
and merging the traditional with the
contemporary to create new dialogues that
produce sustainable interventions.
I believe design is the balance between
opposite extremes, of unity and contrast,
composition and raw expression, simplicity
and complexity. My curiosity has allowed
me to discover a deeper capacity to design
that lies beyond visuals and material
forms. My design process focuses on the
metamorphosis of a simple idea and the
use of a multi-disciplinary approach to
develop innovative solutions through human
interaction. As a visual communicator,
my design capabilities revolve around the
subjects of sustainability, functionality
and adaptation. The outcomes I create
are a representation of critical thinking
that allows the users to interact, navigate,
experience and transform with the designs
I create.
My interest lies in re-contextualizing of
design language to develop responsive,
functional design that creates new meanings
and relationships between the user and
the environment, the mechanical with the
artistic, the rational with the abstract, and
the seen with the unseen.
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Gadaatna (Our Sitting)
Digital Print
N/A
Fall 2014
I believe that design is a way to share our
own perspective and interpretation of the
things around us. Turning insignificant things
into meaningful and valuable designs, I
believe in the power of simplicity within
design, and I attempt to reflect my culture,
traditions and identity. These sources in
particular stimulate me, and are utilized
through my design.
In Gaadatna (Our Sitting), I intend to look
into details of our everyday Qatari belonging,
to value and appreciate its remarkable
beauty, and thus to hold on to our heritage,
since it forms the basis of our identity. This is
especially important during this time of rapid
change in Qatar because modernization
tempts us to forget our beautiful designs and
to lose our pride in them.
My intention is to continue learning and
cultivating my skills as a designer, while
utilizing my knowledge and education to
serve our country.
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Graphic design is a subject matter of
concepts where they look nicer; I believe
creative work begins with the depth of
understanding and sensitivity of the
subject matter.
Through my studies at VCUQatar, I have
expanded my knowledge and perspective
as a designer. I also learned that in
graphic design it is rare to find a unique
and outstanding idea, which made me
enjoy reflecting my personality and myself
through my designs.
As a graphic designer I believe that design
is a composition of raw expression and
creativity. Ive always caught my hunger
for experimentation of new ideas, clarity of
concepts, and my passion for pushing ideas
to the end of the spectrum when paying
attention to the visuals and details.
MOZAAL NASR
Digital Print
59.4 x 84.1cm (A1)
Spring 2014
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As a Graphic Designer I am passionate about
creating clean, sophisticated, fashion forward
pieces. Graphic design enables me to express
my creative side and help me contribute
in shaping society's visual landscape. I am
able to express myself most through graphic
design. It is a field that merges both my
personality, as well as my desire for self-
expression, and grants me a forum on which
I can further develop both aspects of myself.
Graphic design has reassured me of my
own voice, of the potentiality of art, and
the impact that I, and many young artists
like me, have on society. While I am a bit
disillusioned that my four-year journey as a
student of design is at its end, I can't help but
hope that with the new journey I shall soon
start, applying all that I have learned, it will
instill a new sense of appreciation for past
experiences, and eagerness for new ones.
I cant wait to create exciting innovative
work to deliver memorable visual messages
through all media in the future.
MUNEERAAL KHULAIFI
Who am I as a Graphic Designer
Poster
29.7 x 59.4 cm
Spring 2014
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My idea of design was very limited before
getting into VCUQatar. The Graphic Design
Program expanded my knowledge in various
design research directions and applications.
This expansion helped me look into the
field in much more detail, which led me to
finding my interests, which are: typography,
illustration and packaging. Looking at those
outcomes, I also find myself interested in
designing for children as audience.
This packaging project was what led me
to my area of interest and was the start
of many following projects in my years
at VCUQatar that kept expanding my
aspiration to be able to design for a younger
audience. I look forward to collaborative
experiences that allow me to interact,
explore and experiment in order to gain fresh
knowledge and insight to deliver a clear
visual message.
NOOFAL MOHANNADI
Package Design
Packaging
N/A
Spring 2013
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Art vs. Design
Poster
59.4 x 84.1cm (A1)
Spring 2014
If merging art with design is a crime, then
Im guilty.
A lot of people say that emotional
approaches should be for artists, who said
that a graphic designer couldnt be an artist?
Every semantic element is decided based
on emotional purposes from the format to
the typeface to the color. For those who
claim to be graphic designers and think that
emotional approaches are for artists only; try
to design a piece thats only made of card
board and see who will care enough to stop
and take a look.
In my sophomore and junior years, my choice
of profession has been questioned and
whether I belonged to this department or
not, despite how much I love graphic design.
The red cloth expresses how I was hiding
from this situation. But the main message
here is that Im not hiding anymore and its
not a shame to be imaginative for whatever
reason in graphic design, I wanted to show
the sense of daring and courage to go out
there through the composition. The choice of
color for the cloth was meant to make a bold
statement in that respect.
NOOFBINALI
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NOORALTHANI
And then there was Light
MDF Etched Wood
34 x 138 cm
Spring 2015
I am an experiential designer who engages
projects that transcend traditional graphic
design outcomes and captivates the
audience through interactions using time,
motion, space and physical materials.
Even conventional identity systems or
posters require participatory involvement
or systematic processes that materi-
alize through iteration, intuition and
transformation.
My projects often explore an underlying
theme of impermanence; historically,
graphic design work was expected to
last for years or decades, however, con-
temporary design today is about the here
and the now; a moment that captures
our attention and then is gone. In that
the work has impact and power but is
ephemeral. My work emerges through an
exchange of simplicity and complexity
as I explore unconventional methods
combining physical and digital processes,
paying close attention to craft and details,
ensuring each element has a reason, story
or purpose.
Through each project I challenge myself to
learn something new. I believe that research
on a topic, brainstorming materials and
concepts, organizing my thoughts, planning
a direction, and learning by creating
enables me to use design thinking to cause
an intervention interjecting an idea or
opinion into the every-day, to provoke
behavior change.
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An idea can turn to dust or magic,
depending on the talent that rubs
against it.
Bill Bernbach
Not having a single style, I always try to push
my limits and try different things. I mostly
find myself more pleased when designing
for children as an audience because there I
can go back to my childhood and reflect on
what I always wanted to dojust drawing
with small stories in mind, which shows my
love for illustration and animation. Creative
Imagination Prints enabled me to explore
different media and different techniques that
took me out of my comfort zone.
Never satisfied with gray areas, I strive for
brilliance of color, always adding rich hues to
enliven the design. I aim to achieve elegance,
attention to details, sophistication, craft,
and playful usage of image in my designs so
people can see and immediately associate
them with my personality. As a graphic
designer I am capable of solving problems,
creating solutions and communicating my
thoughts visually to a variety of audiences.
My four years in VCU Qatar was a short
journey of self-discovering as a designer,
and I have grown into a completely different
person conceptually and skill-wise.
NOORAAL MELHIM
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Creative Imagination Prints
Mixed Media
N/A
Spring 2014
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SALMAHAMOUDA
Me, Myself and I
Digital Print
59.4 x 84.1 cm
Spring 2014
VCUQatar has taught me how powerful
graphic design is. I have established the
ability to solve problems through design
and critical thinking. I have also learnt
that design can be a platform for taking
action and causing a reaction. The thought
of my work being able to change peoples
behavior and thinking allows me to be
innovative and ambitious. I dont think
people give design in general as much
credit as it deserves.
My personality shows through my work.
I like to take a minimalistic approach
when designing because I believe the
simpler something is, the more effective
it is. Im very systematic, structured and
organized. Even though my work might
look simple from far, there are a lot of
layers of complexity to it. When I look at
my design process and how my work has
evolved from start to finish, I can see a
reflection of myself as a designer and how
Ive evolved and progressed. I can see how
over the years Ive learnt to experiment
and take more risks. Ive developed my own
visual language and style, and only hope
to continue growing and improving as
a designer.
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I am a person who searches for truth, value
and meaning in life. Honesty, hard work
and hope are the guiding principles of my
life. I tend to believe in not what is usually
seen, rather what lies beyond the seen.
To me, design is more than what books
and technology has to offer. It is rather a
never-ending exploration about The Self.
It is a deep-rooted process that comes from
understanding life, people and experiences
that nurtures a designers thinking, which
in turn impacts his design philosophies and
solutions.
The idea of making meaning or finding
meaning in the surroundings to evoke
an emotional response is something that
inspires me. Hence, the power of narrative
design to express myself and my experiences
steps in and guides all my work. Storytelling,
poetry and photography are some of the
tools that I use to communicate and express
myself in innovative ways. Something that
really fascinates me about graphic design is
the fact that it is not limited in its nature. It
has given me an opportunity to find value in
things that I might have been oblivious of. I
have learnt that the key for my journey as a
designer is to appreciate my values and the
environment we breathe in every day.
WANOUNYAQOOB
T I T L E
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D A T E
The Companion
Digital Print
14.8 x 21 cm (A5)
Fall 2014
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We are entering a new global era which holds
much promise for the design discipline and
suggests holistic paradigms. Our curriculum
extrapolates from the present perspective
bridging the gap between environment,
behavior and creativity paradigms.
Our interior design department provides
students with the appropriate pedagogic
tools to achieve this unique learning
experience, including interdisciplinary and
multidisciplinary collaboration, real-life
projects, internships, study abroad, and
professional tours.
Our students are benefitting from a
culturally-diverse body of faculty,
a fundamental constituent of excellence in
art and design schools.
This is resulting in distinguished pedagogic,
research and service projects, including, but
not limited to, the building of a teachers
house in Muen Phem of the Karen Hill Tribe
in Chiang Mai, Thailand; partnering with
Al Baker Architects to examine and explore
the design of future spas in search of new
identities and innovation; using immersive
projection in conjunction with Qatar
Museums Authority for the design of the
Doha Fire Station; and designing a mobile
exhibition (MobEx) in a unique collaborative
pedagogic experience that brought together
students from VCU Richmond and VCUQatar.
While continuing to be the sole CIDA (Council
for Interior Design Accreditation) accredited
program outside the United States, I
am delighted about our ambitious and
expanding prospects and I look forward to a
future full of success and excellence.
Mohamed Cherif Amor
Chair, Interior Design
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AISHAAL NAAMA
Interior design is not just about selecting
furniture or choosing colors. I believe that
Interior design can be a much deeper
reflection of people lifestyle. In my design I
sough to incorporate glimpses of the past
as an inspiration. Past is an extension of
the present and future, as a designer, I
believe that there are many essential lessons
to learn from the past that need to be
implemented through design. I consider that
the best way to understand our future is to
remember our past, and whenever we dig
into our past we will progress in our future.
In my project I tried to come up with a
strong concept that originate from the past
yet benefit from the modern technology.
The concept of the house project seek for
new possibilities of architectural and urban
forms through new meaning imposed on
older ideas. I applied courtyard system
that drive from the old houses in Qatar
in order to create harmony with the life
style, environment, nature and the cultural
value of the Qatari people maintain its
unique identity.
Living room
Digital Rendering
2400 x 1800 px
Spring 2015
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As an Interior Designer I aspire to combine
interiors with human interaction. My
motivation is the impact interior spaces
can have on the human psyche or behavior
and vice versa. Throughout my work aims
to understand the psychological and
sociological aspect of the client I design for.
From then on I can push the boundaries and
influences of my design.
Through exploration of our behavior I wish to
create an emotion and reaction, challenge
the way we inhabit or use our spaces.
Furthermore, in my capstone Grieving
Center project, I seek to control how a space
can help us psychologically and improve our
lives. I hope to maintain this approach in
future projects, too.
Experimentation, an open mind and
accepting failure have proven to be the best
way for me to improve my designs. Upon
these foundations growth ensues.
Grieving Center Capstone
Sketch
N/A
Spring 2015
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ARWASAFRI
Design to me is like a lavish dinner set on
a table. From far, it attracts the person,
the aroma of the food fills the nostrils and
draws one closer. From close, one gets to
touch the rough texture of the bread and
the smoothness of the silverware. At last
one gets to taste the food. In a similar
way, I believe designed spaces can provide
a full sensory experience. To me, each
corner of the space is carefully thought
upon. I believe in designing for a reason
and with a reason; design not just for the
eye but for all the senses and the mind.
As part of the process, I believe in
analyzing the problem in depth - the
what ifs open a whole set of possibilities.
In addition, I believe with design there
is always a room for improvement and
therefore I happily accept criticism. I
believe in taking risk and set myself on a
journey full of surprises.
My work as a designer thrives on a theme,
heavily focusing on serving a purpose and
fulfilling a function. Spaces that are well-
utilized and engaging that draw one to
inhabit and activate with their presence.
Sports caf a journey inside the caf
Digital Rendering
N/A
Spring 2015
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Sports caf a journey inside the caf
Digital Rendering
N/A
Spring 2015
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Design is not about creating beauty, but
bringing out beauty from unnoticed matter.
As an individual I am curious to learn and
understand the skills of making things.
To me every aspect of Interior Design is exciting,
especially as I carry a strong desire to create
practical yet beautiful environments, in which
people live and work. It is a challenging field
that teaches ways to expand design thinking
over a broad spectrum of subjects. VCU Qatar
provided a design platform where designers
are able to work in multidisciplinary fields
enhancing their knowledge beyond their majors.
Being tested with different projects I developed
understanding, of the importance of process
work. For me, final result is not the only thing
a designer needs to aim for, but rather the
most important aspect of designing is the
development of the process. I see myself as a
designer who wants to explore different fields
and possibilities of generating design process
and the procedure of process making.
Delta
Mixed Media
150cm X 150cm X 50cm
Fall 2014
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BASHAYERAL MOHANNADI
As a designer I love to incorporate elements
of my traditional Qatari culture into almost
everything I do. I believe that by combining
elements of my culture into designs, I am
reflecting the aspirations and future of my
country. Qatar has so much beauty through
its Islamic and Arabic influences and these
can create unique designs that incorporate
blends of color, style, fabrics, mosaics water,
light etc. I like to create spaces that are
functional and beautiful. Where are person
feels comfortable and well cared for. Where
attention to detail is extremely important.
My designs try to focus on individualism and
character using diversity of colors and styles,
culturally- sourced content combined with
the use of lighting tries to bring a richness
to my work. Careful analysis and application
of my design ideas through, I try to produce
spaces that show careful thought and
planning, and have a very Qatari sense
of place.
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Design creates culture. Culture shapes
values. Values determine the future.
Robert L. Peters
Applying the design process is not a
mathematical equation; it is allowing
yourself to change your perspective and
alter your perception on what a space can
be. The word design itself has a personality,
it is a combination of my interests and
individuality where I reflect a part of
myself in my work. My curiosity controls me
wherever I go, I analyze my surroundings, my
feelings in different places and always try
to know what differentiates each emotional
reaction. This reflects on my impression
in people, if a person expresses their
opinion on a certain space, I get curious to
know why and how they feel in the same
environment. This helps me analyze what
each aspect of the setting does to people
and how I want to design an experience,
not just a three dimensional area. My work
reflects transforming an abstract into
an environment, experience and hence,
a reality.
Resonance
Digital
NA
Spring 2015
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DHIKAKHAIRA
One behaves in a certain way when
one enters a specific space. The ceiling
height, the flooring, the room lighting
ambiance, or even the minutiaes, such as
tactile materials effect your experiences.
The smallest of details, the careful
considerations accumulated together by
interior designers are what defines the
overall atmosphere which directs individuals
to behave accordingly.
Interior design determines our behavior
in every space we enter, yet we take it for
granted. I believe in design as a way of
living, as a way of communicating, and as
a way of narrating stories. Through design,
I hope to tell stories and deliver messages
through a series of experiences. I believe
that clarity and intelligibility are the most
important things in design. Clarity in design
means that your design communicates in
a clear, certain, and direct manner. Design
should always have the ability to speak for
itself without the need for explanation.
Pockets of Theater
Foam and illustration board white model
90 x 50 x 10 cm
Fall 2015
As an aspiring designer, I thrive for more
knowledge and opportunities that will help
myself grow richer as a better individual
when designing in future projects.
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Pockets of Theater
Foam and illustration board white model
90 x 50 x 10 cm
Fall 2015
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My thesis project reflects my approach to
work and also my personality and style. In
this piece I have taken a 1970s style palace
and transformed it into a boutique hotel. In
doing this, I have combined classic elements
of Qatari tradition encompassing the theme
of the Pearl, while still preserving the key
elements of the 70s style and architecture
of the space. The irregular lines and
iridescent colors one would see in a pearl,
are symbolic of my love and appreciation for
the heritage of Qatar.
As a designer I know I have grown from
where I began and that the journey is still
continuing. I embrace new opportunities
and understand that a world without design
would be a very dull place. Thus it is now
my vocation to ensure that the beauty
and individualism of design is passed on
through generations.
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FARAHZAMRI
Al-Majlis
Pine and plywood
15 sqm
Fall 2014
"Eventually everything connects -
people, ideas, objects. The quality of the
connections is the key to quality per se."
-Charles Eames
Design is a universal language. As an Interior
designer, we communicate through space.
Every space has a narrative, a history left
behind, with memories to store.
Completing the undergraduate program.
Interior Design, enhanced my knowledge to
discover a new perspective in design. Space
is not just about good design, appealing
aesthetics and materials; Interior Design
is about the audience, understanding
their behavior, representing them and
functionality through their requirements.
Interior Design has a cinematic personality
that engages one to visually imagine the
scenarios within a narrated space, similar to
a movie set with an endless time frame.
Design brings about a purposeful impact
experienced by the audience and myself,
since it heightens an imagined space into
a functional and everlasting memory.
My work welcomes the individual familiar
and unfamiliar to recognize and adapt to
the designed environment. I will continue
to push my research in various other
storyboards into action that create similar
experiences through Interior Design.
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I think it was the places, sights, smells and
tastes from my travels that lured me into the
field of design. However, what I found most
striking is the way our domestic environments
are designed to reflect our culture and
facilitate how different cultures eat and
interact. It is this thirst for understanding
cultures and their influence on design and
aesthetics which inspired me to train as an
interior designer. Studying in VCU Qatar, a
diverse environment, I discovered more on
culture and how it shapes an individuals
character and influences their thinking.
The stories of the past and the dreams of
the future are indeed affected by culture-
This is design. Families have legacies, values
and recipes which are carried forward from
generation to generation which are reflected
in our shared behaviors. This effects the way
we shape the environment around us. I try to
design keeping in mind the environment and
the cultural context.
Segments
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Spring 2014
GEETHARAJESWAR
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Design is honesty. A space makes you feel
all kind of emotions. You feel welcomed,
immersed, quiet or uneasy the second
you enter the space; thats the power of
Design. It is also the reason why I love the
field I chose. Being able to implement all
sorts of emotions or convey a story in any
three dimensional space always intrigued
me. Seeing how an idea can come to life
from your own hands is the best gift that
a designer can get. Ideas are endless, the
secret is to just stay curious.
To me, design is, at the same time, a
scientific and artistic process. The scientific
part is the moment where you need to
experiment in order to achieve the final
creative outcome. The artistic part is
the direction where your inspiration and
creativity takes you; the end result will
always be unexpected and uncontrollable.
Design is full of surprises and magic because
its an uncontrollable experiment. It always
makes me feel inspired, creative and wonder
about the next step to take
MERIEMAIOUNA
QMA project restaurant bar white model
Bristol paper
55.6 x 24.5 x 7.5 cm
Fall 2014
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As an interior designer, I try to be Open
minded. I attempt to expose my style of
design. I am more creative when build in full
scale .also , i get inspire from my traditions,
people, books and other designers .
Inner patient and self believes are what
makes me continue working .lighting and
colors in a space make me happy and I
love how does the colors effect our mood .
It change our feeling and how we see the
world. Also colors should be in a right place
.at that end I think we design to create
feeling from the space throw the colors.
Remember, color is not just color, but mood,
temperature and structure.
- Van Day Truex
Creating Moods
Sculpture
5X5 cm
Fall 2014
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El Baraha
Digital Rendering
N/A
Spring 2015
NAJDAL MESNED
Looking at the influence and practice
of design in the region, an element that
repeatedly stands out to me is how the
local culture is romanticized in spaces.
Such references are seen in structures and
interiors where a user is welcomed into an
experience. The symbolic and concrete
references are the intriguing element
to me as an interior designer. Beyond
decorative elements, how can interior
design authentically depict culture. This
assertion has guided many of my design
investigations. Design to me, are informed
decisions on what the space aesthetically
and functionally is referencing. In response,
my thesis project looks into how culture
and the ideals of the region are reflected in
the hospitality industry. With the common
sight of the boundary wall to Qatars
residents, my thesis questions the social
influence of such structures. The El Baraha
project integrates a communal approach
to tourism.
The desert resorts design trials ideals on the
boundary wall, common ground and privacy
that is set among Qatari neighborhoods.
Migrating away from the city into the
desert, El Baraha utilizes the context of
the open landscape and omission of the
boundary walls to introduce a communal
feel to tourism.
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Despite what people may think, there
is more to Interior Design than just
a harmonious combination of colors
and materials. If I had to define what
our profession means to me, I would
say the following: interior design is
a communication instrument with
which the designer tells his story to the
worlds subconscious.
Interior designers are invisible
storytellers. We have the ability to
implement design solutions that
discreetly appeal to the users, as they
can feel, yet not see them. It is this
enchanted capability that fascinates
me the most about what we do.
Every project is an opportunity to tell
a story, connecting visual and spatial
languages to create meaningful
three-dimensional experiences. As an
interior designer, I have made it a goal
to create memorable, or at the very
least, hard to forget impressions on the
visitors of my spaces. The challenge I
accepted is to apply a deeper meaning
to my concepts, by reaching to the
core of the stories and appealing to
the senses.
Social Design
Mixed media
850 x 600 x 300 cm
Fall 2014
NOHAFAHMY
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If we value our lives, let us abandon it all
I am forever fettered to myself, thats what I
am, and thats what I must try to live with.
Frank Kafka
Design to me is to tell a story..
I believe that places, over time, affect
an individuals perception. Places act as
an indicator of authenticity. Design is a
reflection of what people have experienced
in the past through incidents and
interactions. Design is also a reflection of
belief and value that expresses something
to the viewer. Design is a plan for arranging
elements in such a way to accomplish a
purpose. Design is not a method of general
expression, it is a method of action. Design
is not only crafty and artistic, it addresses
industrial solutions. The primary conditions
for the practice of design is the recognition
of the need. A true place welcomes
change that adapts with circumstances to
accommodate with what the time brings.
NORHANMOHAMED
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For me design is not a transformation, its
creation. Designing for me is the experience
that extends far beyond the bricks and
mortar of the design environment it is to
understand the motives behind any design
choice; this is true wither it is personal or
universal, contemporary or classic, bespoke or
generic. To be a great designer I believe that;
I need communicate and connect design
to the people; to enhance the environment
and make it relevant to the cultural and
historical background of the surroundings.
Designing for me is like a solving a puzzle, I
always struggle to find all the pieces but I
always complete the picture. As a designer
I enjoy expressing myself through many
different but interconnected ways through
the design process.
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Untitled
Wood
30 x 50
OMAIMAABDULLA
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Design is an eclectic process that is built
on combining knowledge of functions,
materials, and behavioral science to
address and solve an existing problem,
while maintaining aesthetic values and
functionality. It starts with identifying a
need, and then analyzing it from different
angles and points of view. I would then
put my thoughts together, and work on
creating a solution for the issue at hand,
and eventually come up with a design that
addresses the initial problem from all sides.
I prefer to sketch and render manually, as
I feel that it brings me closer to the designs
I create. The process of mixing and
matching colors, considering different hues
and saturations, and creating a balance
between lights and shadows helps me to
bring out the best of my work, and highlight
the most important elements in my designs.
Piano Platform View
Ink & marker on paper
40 x 27 cm
Fall 2014
OMAREZZELDEEN
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The most intriguing and impactful designs
are ones that both inspire and fulfill a
specific function. Whether it is to provide
migrant workers with a place of respite, or
to preserve tradition in an old palace, these
designs can fulfill a vital function and be
aesthetically and psychologically pleasing.
In terms of aesthetic design, I think it is
important for me to express my energetic
and competitive side. This energy is
demonstrated in many of my designs that
involve vivid colors and sharp, lively themes
and elements. I often model and design
spaces that are dynamic, interactive and
flow, inducing energy into the user.
Although my greatest passion in design is
for furniture, designing for residential and
commercial spaces intrigues me. I believe
that every home, restaurant, shop, etc.
has its own identity. A space is designed
for specific a specific audience and this
audience must be comfortable in their
own space, you must understand the
psychological aspect to understand each
functionality required by a client to be able
to design for them.
REEMAL ADHAM
Bethiye
Wood Construction
N/A
Fall 2014
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My interest is how culture influences design.
As an Interior Design student at Virginia
Commonwealth University Qatar, a main
aspect that I decide to focus on while
starting and working on a project is how
culture can relate to either the interior of
a space or even a furniture piece. I am
personally interested in furniture design as
I feel that a specific furniture piece can say
a lot. Learning about different cultures and
religions is also very important.
Namaste was a project that mainly focused
on the Asian migrant workers who live in
Doha. Creating a seating area for them was
a challenge as there was a lot that I needed
to learn about. For example, activities that
they like to do, how they like to eat and what
they like to do in their free time. All of these
aspects relate back to my furniture piece.
For the future I would like to continue
designing interior spaces and furniture pieces
for different cultures. Learning about different
cultures has made me grow as a person and
as a designer.
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Namaste
Mixed Media
N/A
Fall 2014
SARAKHIDER
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Design is a language which is interdisciplinary
and is primarily about problem-solving. It
is able to combine visual sensitivity in order
to break the barriers between humans. The
concept behind my work evolved from my
outlook on the environment and the idea
that we can do to help improve the quality
of living. Just like life, design is an endeavor
that everyone helps to create and maintain
together. In order to have a good end result,
there should be an interaction between the
composition of expression and commitment.
I feel comfortable with operating in the digital
world as well as the physical world. For me,
this is similar to being raised in two cultures-
Pakistan and Philippines. I strive for brilliance
of colors. I strive for pushing my ideas towards
the end of the spectrum and I strive for paying
close attention to the public.
Beyond the barriers
Mixed media (wood and foam board)
80 x 80 cm
Fall 2014
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As Qatar makes its mark on the world
stage it does so with a huge investment
in the visual arts and an expansive
museum program. It is our belief that our
students will not only become part of this
development, but will be its instigators.
The Painting and Printmaking Program is
the first visual arts studio practice program
in Qatars history and is part of a wider
development in the visual arts that is seeing
Doha become a cultural hub, not only in the
region, but also on the international stage.
We are proud to present the degree show
for our very first set of graduates who will go
on to play a major role in Qatars emerging
cultural economy. Where most graduates
find opportunities, ours will create them,
where most graduates seek answers, ours
will dare to ask questions, and where most
graduates seek to understand the world,
ours seek to change it.
From starting up their own studio practice,
developing links with museums, curating
exhibitions, and setting up their own
galleries, the three intensive years in the
Painting and Printmaking program has
prepared our students to thrive in a fast and
unpredictably changing cultural climate.
Students learn to understand, critique and
even transform the cultural landscape
before them, and in doing so play a
significant role in the evolution and
development of society.
So if the many museums that Qatar is
building are indeed to shape its future and
that of the region they must do so with
the most inventive, thought provoking,
and challenging of artists. We believe our
program prepares our artists to be just that,
and we invite you to partake in their success
at this years exhibition, the BFA degree
show of 2014.
Rhys Himsworth
Director, Painting and Printmaking
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EMELINASOARES
Series Process
Digital prints, fabric and milk
Dimensions variable
Spring 2015
History is endless but memories help remind
us of what we once had.
My practice revolves around fabricating
an orientalist perspective that forms my
identity. As a third culture individual of Indian
ethnicity with Portuguese ancestry, raised in
the Middle East, I have developed a curiosity
to examine intercultural influences by using
semiotics to bridge that perplexity.
My desire to impersonate iconic historical
paintings in a digital montage contextualizes
the work to contemporary mediums,
while juxtaposing the history and cultural
anachronisms. By investigating my religion
in an Islamic society, I have been clarifying
the placement of myself. Abstracting the
images to obscure my multicultural ethnicity
progressed to a level of the unknown. I hope
to attain a better understanding of my
identity in a foreign, yet known culture as I
proceed both as an artist and individual.
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119My professor asked me to write an artist
statement, so here it is.
I do not think I should write an artist
statement, but I am writing it now to fulfill
class requirements. This statement is also
for people who require artist statements
for their applications, like artist residencies,
graduate studies or curators, where
artists are obligated to submit their artist
statement. It could also be on my website
under About Artist.
I believe that visual art is more powerful
than words, and there are not enough words
on this planet that can describe it. My art is
visual; you should not need to read or listen
to me talking about my work; to defend
it or to engage the viewer. I think visual
art has the power to exercise the brain by
making viewers question what the art piece
is about. I want people to think about my
artwork even after they go home without
words killing their imagination.
Endless work, unless the power is out
Multimedia
Dimensions variable
Fall 2015
HANAAL SAADI