ZU students’ talents impress one and all

There is a lot in common in Dana, Maryam, Eman, Latifa and other Emirati girls graduating from Zayed University’s Arts and Design College this year.

A one-of-a-kind art exhibition hosted by young students from the university received critical acclaim and praise from Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

Speaking with Khaleej Times, Shaikh Nahyan said, “This exhibition shows the maturity of our students and their ability to express their feelings where they bridge the past with the future. I am overwhelmed and proud of these students.”

He added, “These students are our real wealth. We are committed to providing quality education and we are proud to provide opportunities to them. They are confident and make the best of what is available to them.” The exhibition showcases artworks, branding, product showcase and visual designs. One of the students, Khawla Ali Amin Ahli, created a series of learning resources for kids with hearing and speech impediments. Her idea was to help young children learn sign language with ease.

“Kalloamne is an Arabic word which means ‘talk to me’. The project calls people to learn sign language, its phrases, letters and gestures,” says a confident Khawla.

Another student, Alyazia Al Suwaidi, had a creative trick up her sleeve. Her graduation brief was to start work on her ‘dream project’.

“I am obsessed with shoes and I wanted to create my own line of shoes. After a lot of research and brainstorming, I came up with the idea of making shoes with camel leather,” said Alyazia.

Her graduation project matched up to the work of any advertising agency as she created and produced designs with a touch of Emirati essence.

Another student artist, Maitha Demithan, had a large portrait of an Emirati family at the exhibition in Wafi Mall. Her art was a reflection of an Emirati culture, looking into the tradition of aqeeqa, which is the shaving of a baby’s head on the 40^th day of its birth.

“I looked around for inspiration where I could invite people into the private space of a ritual and create a surreal experience,” said Maitha.

She explored the world through the art of scannography. Scanning real people using an ordinary scanner, Maitha depicts a rich scene as she looks at the role of women in their own space.

Janet Bellotto and Karen Oremus, co-chairs of the Department of Art and Design at ZU, were proud of the student’s works.

“After an intensive and thorough period of research and experimentation, these students emerge with projects that reflect their identity as young Emirati women and portray the aspirations they intend to achieve,” said the professors.

muaz@khaleejtimes.com