Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) recently released Cultivating the Arts, a book commemorating the school’s 20 years in Qatar.
A large number of students and faculty gathered for the book launch at the VCUarts Qatar library recently. The book is dedicated to the university’s 642 alumni and to the faculty, staff and administrators who contributed to their education.
20 Years of Arts Education in Qatar
The book details the growth of the university from its early days in 1998 when it was originally called Shaqab College of Design Arts, to 2001 when it became VCU Qatar College of Design Arts, and then in 2002, when it became a branch campus of Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, with the first degrees awarded in 2002, and on to its notable success across two decades.
Cultivating the Arts includes messages from HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, co-founder and chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), and HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, QF Vice Chairperson and CEO.
In her message, HH Sheikha Moza said the tradition of innovation that led QF to partner with VCUarts two decades ago is as vibrant as ever. HE Sheikha Hind, meanwhile, highlighted the quality of VCUarts Qatar alumni, having assumed leadership positions in every sector of Qatar society – from government to retail, infrastructure, entertainment, sports, and media, contributing significantly to the nation’s social, cultural and economic progress.
Outstanding Alumni, Ground-Breaking Achievements
Cultivating the Arts includes many highlights from VCUarts Qatar’s 20 years of ground-breaking achievements such as its annual fashion show, landmark exhibitions and lectures, innovative designs and visits by famous artists and designers.
The book also showcases the university’s many and varied roles in innovation and in cultivating the arts in Qatar, its ability to ignite the imagination and creativity of its students, and a look at alumni who are shaping the future and who have expanded their education and created new opportunities for the country. The book closes with 20 Years of Excellence, a summary of the success of VCUarts Qatar as it closes its second decade.
According to VCUarts Qatar Executive Dean, Dr Donald Baker, the university has been a steady source of innovation and offers an alternative view at looking at the world and at people, generally.
As it looks ahead, the university envisages greater integration into the rapidly developing digital world through enhanced and virtual reality and artificial intelligence, incorporating them into existing programmes and inspiring new programmes. The university is constantly updating its curriculum to reflect the evolution of the disciplines it offers and provide relevant knowledge and skills, real-life experiences, and integration of the latest technology.’
Dean Baker, who signed the first copy of Cultivating the Arts, explained how the book covers the field trips, the exhibitions, the fashion shows, and the graduations, as well as the many social events, such as Karak Hour and all the festivities that were held to celebrate the university’s 20th anniversary. He also signed copies of the book for the faculty, students and staff of the university who were there to collect their copies.
The book was designed and produced by Akkadia Press, and edited by Priya D’Souza and Nadia Y Abudayeh. Abudayeh, who spoke before the assembled group of faculty, students and staff at the book launch, said they worked on the book for months.
It was hard work, with many challenges, but definitely a great experience. Our faculty, staff, students and alumni are a source of pride and your stories, achievements, exhibitions, books and articles were all important for the creation of this book.’
Beginning in 1998 as a women-only university with 35 students to its 20th anniversary intake of 340 male and female students, VCUarts Qatar has grown to become the leading institution for art and design education in Qatar. Its nearly 650 alumni have played an important part in the art and design scene not only in Qatar but in many countries around the world – in museums and galleries, or with prestigious companies and organisations.
Copies of book, Cultivating the Arts may be obtained through Rasha Alkasab at [email protected]. Read the Marhaba special feature on VCUarts Qatar 20th anniversary here.