Egyptian artists were deeply involved in spearheading, capturing, and influencing the January 2011 uprising. Today a new generation of Egyptian activist artists carry the mantle of social justice and human rights. At times, their work takes a humorous angle, in the form of cartoons and political satire printed in newspapers, perhaps targeting a niche audience. Read more »
Archives for October 2014
The renaissance of Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s cultural projects have been a boon to the country and the wider region. They have spurred much-needed reforms that will hopefully be expanded and even replicated in the region. These projects — being built as much of the region’s heritage is lost — are also offering optimism to many in the Middle East that our future can also be full of life, colour and hope. Read more »
On MIT Media Lab: imagination realized
The Media Lab was founded almost thirty years ago in 1985, however it was reenergized following the appointment of Japanese venture capitalist and entrepreneur Joi Ito in 2011. Joi, who is also an activist and DJ, immediately embarked on a rebranding exercise bringing in ‘antidisciplinary’ individuals to the 400 person strong institution which had an annual budget of $55 million USD. The most important ingredient of the MIT Media Lab however is not the state of the art technology or my admirably professional peers but the very students we are meant to inspire. Read more »