LAHORE: Mariam Dawood School of Visual Arts and Design at the Beaconhouse National University unveils the largest annual degree show featuring fabulous thesis projects by 113 undergraduate students. The show will go on till June 25.

This year’s exhibition is the largest in the BNU’s history and showcases the culmination of four years of hard work and creative exploration of students across five bachelor’s degree programmes: BA (Hons) Interdisciplinary Expanded Arts and Design, BFA Visual Arts, BDes Visual Communication Design, BDes Textile, and BDes Fashion.

The students of different departments highlighted sociocultural issues through their theses. Some worked on animation games and some took the hint from old cultural traditions of storytelling. Some of the students made Urdu poetry and Lucknow the basis of their thesis while colourful lights were used while emphasizing upon the idea of infinity in one’s mind in another project. The projects on display are well researched and they open vistas to new thought processes.

The ongoing degree show of 2023 showcases talent of 113 graduates of five degree programmes, resulting in a vibrant and diverse exhibition of creativity and innovation. The students bring forth an array of groundbreaking and thought-provoking works. Their exhibits are testament to their out-of-the-box thinking as they fearlessly explored new realms and pushed boundaries in their respective disciplines. Each project is a culmination of extensive research, revealing a deep commitment to their craft. The students’ innovative ideas and meticulous execution breathe life into their works, captivating visitors and leaving them inspired by the boundless possibilities of design and art.

Associate Prof Rohma Khan, the head of Department IEDA, said: “In this journey of triumphs and resilience, we celebrate the first batch of eleven students graduating with a BA (Hons) in Interdisciplinary Expanded Design and Art (IEDA). Their innovative projects merge knowledge from diverse fields, including architecture, gender studies, psychology, cognitive science, pedagogy, biology and alchemy. Despite initial challenges, they have emerged stronger, showcasing groundbreaking ideas as spatial archivists, subjective mappers and bio-design innovators. As their supervisors, we’re inspired by their transformative journey. We believe their contributions to interdisciplinary design and art will continue to be remarkable as they explore new artistic frontiers”.

Associate Prof Kiran Khan Kakkar, the HoD of Textile, Fashion and Accessories Department, said “The TFA department at the BNU offers this year a multidisciplinary approach to design. With integrating technology, developing 3D printed works, developing Fashion apps to craft revival the students have showcased a unique blend of techniques, materials and mediums.” She says that the TFA degree has the specialty of offering the only collapsible degree in the country, which is evident in the multidisciplinary projects of students.

Associate Prof Aarish Saradar, the HoD of Visual Communication Design Department, said that the students of the department presented 50 exceptional projects, showcasing the boundless possibilities of visual communication design and beyond.

“Multifaceted projects on display explore design as a dynamic force in shaping narratives, bridging realities, and empowering communities. They transcend traditional mediums, evoked emotions, challenged perceptions, and ignited the conceptual sphere. These projects redefined our understanding of digital landscapes by delving into storytelling and virtual realms and leaving a real-world impact. They exemplify a human-centered approach, addressing societal challenges and fostering social connections.”

Prof Risham Syed, who heads the Visual Arts Department of Fine Arts, says the Visual Arts Degree Show 2023 showcases work of the best of 12 brilliant minds. Each body of work demonstrates rigorous exploration of distinct conceptual and material concerns, she says. “Each one of them has worked hard with ambition, resulting in well executed largescale projects that are a promise of their professional commitment. The concerns range from personal to historical, poetic to environmental and domestic to political. The students have outdone themselves in every which way,” adds Ms Syed.

SVAD Dean Prof Rashid Rana while commending the efforts of the students said: “This event marks the first official celebration, commemorating the BNU’s 20 years of embracing diversity. The degree show showcases the exceptional skills, creativity, and dedication of our graduates, reflecting unique perspectives and innovative thinking”.

Mr Rana expressed his utmost enthusiasm and pride in hosting the most monumental Annual Degree Show in the BNU’s history. He emphasised the school’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative leaders and commended the students for their outstanding achievements.

Prof Rana highlighted that the show serves as an unparalleled platform for these young artists to showcase their immense talents, unique perspectives, and artistic visions.

“This year’s exhibition features the groundbreaking projects from the inaugural batch of the Interdisciplinary Expanded Arts and Design (IEDA) program, adding a new dimension to the already exceptional line-up,” he adds.

Published in Dawn, June 20th, 2023