Public Affairs

Graphic design students at AUK showcased their work in an exhibition that centered on the history of Arab design. The exhibition was organized by assistant professor of graphic design, Dr. Fahad Dhawi, for his Special Topics course.  
 
The event showcased how Arabic graphic design is influenced by history, regional trends, and cultural phenomena, and to develop critical thinking and effective communication as it pertains to Arabic graphic design. 
 
The exhibited projects encompassed Arabic calligraphy, typography, lettering, sculpture, mix media, painting, illustration and manuscript. Mashrabiya, poster, product, and furniture designs were also incorporated into the students’ work.  
 
Commenting on the significance of this exhibition and its distinctiveness, Dr. Dhawi stated, “The course and final projects featured in the exhibition highlight the importance of visual identity and culture. There is no design course in the Gulf region that covers the work of more than 200 Arab designers, or detailed information (timelines) on the establishment and evolution of Arab art and design colleges, editorial design, poster design, cinema, typewriter, language learning, printing press, and calligraphy in pre-colonial and post-colonial eras in one semester. Therefore, this course would be one of the first in Kuwait—if not in the region—that exposes students to this content through written reflection papers, engaging lectures, collaborative class activities, and discussions.”  
 
An engaging platform was offered for students through this exhibition to celebrate creativity, strength of communication design, power of voice and artistic expression as well as the power of art, culture, and collaboration.