On May 23, the Ramez G. Chagoury Faculty of Architecture, Arts and Design (FAAD) hosted its annual End-of-Year Exhibition titled “Boundless”, displaying students’ remarkable artworks and designs. The event was marked by the presence of NDU President Fr. Bechara Khoury, Faculty Chairs and Deans, as well as notable keynote speakers, guests, and students. The long-awaited exhibition also included various presentations, fashion shows, and informative interventions. It was moderated by Dr. Rina Shebaby, Assistant Professor at the Department of Design.
At the start of the event, Dr. Rina Shebaby briefly introduced the “Boundless” exhibition to guests present. Gaining inspiration from students’ limitless creativity and imagination, Dr. Shebaby explained that the exhibition’s title served merely as a tribute to the abundant efforts displayed by design students during the current academic year. Dr. Shebaby then reiterated the significance of supporting students in their endeavors, noting that encouragement and motivation can go a long way and yield positive results like the ones displayed on this occasion.
Following Dr. Shebaby’s opening remarks, Lebanese journalist and TV presenter Riad Tawk took the stage to convey his enthusiasm for participating in an event he considered decisive and crucial for current design students. Tawk additionally reflected on his time at the University, praising recent achievements and improvements made with regard to the majors offered. Concluding his address, he restated the need to constantly provide students with such supportive initiatives, which in turn would lead to said students thriving in their own unique ways.
For her part, Dr. Karen Bou Jaoude, Interim Dean at the Ramez G. Chagoury, Faculty of Architecture, Arts and Design (FAAD), congratulated senior students on their remarkable and consistent efforts. She also took the time to dedicate some words of appreciation to faculty members and instructors who made this awaited exhibition possible. According to her, such prominent figures played key roles in helping students unleash their creativity and potential. As a final note, Dr. Abou Jaoude highlighted the impact of students’ determination and drive, stating that their collective journeys certainly influence and inspire all attendees.
NDU President Fr. Bechara Khoury also shared his thoughts during the occasion. Fr. Khoury recalled the excessive crises and hurdles present in the country, emphasizing that such obstacles were never capable of standing in the way of the hopes and dreams of ambitious individuals. The Father President also expressed the pride he felt when witnessing noteworthy student accomplishments like this one. As he stated, the innovative spirit showcased today has accompanied students since their very first day at the University, and it has only grown further by means of persistence and unconditional support.
As for the guest of honor Jean-Claude Malhamé, the experienced architect and interior designer delivered an insightful address during the event. In his speech, Malhamé offered students a glimpse of his own past experiences and acquired lessons. Using a realistic approach, he discussed potential expectations of what awaits senior students, detailing life after university and realities surrounding future workplace environment. The guest speaker finally concluded with some piece of advice, urging students to always remain true to their morals and ambitions, for doing so will only set them up for additional success.
Following the various interventions and remarks of speakers, a captivating fashion show took place, during which students’ creative designs were put on display. Participants were subsequently invited for an exhibition viewing inside the FAAD building.
Overall, the festive end-of-year exhibition represented a notable opportunity to unveil the creativity and vision of students. It offered a thorough demonstration of their diligence and creative ideas to a large audience, which included University members and esteemed guests. Every aspect of the show, from captivating performances to thought-provoking designs, gave viewers a peek into students’ potential and dispelled any uncertainty surrounding the fact that they are well-positioned to make a big impact in the world outside of the University.