Developed as a collaborative project between students in Time Studio and Surface Research courses in the VCUQ foundations program, these posters and stop motion videos investigate the concept of #3eib—the Qatari definition of socially questionable practices. These projects represent cultural observation, critique and celebration of local customs.
Students were asked to become primary researchers, by observing the local customs and visually defining the concept of 3eib. In contrast to haram practices which are based on religious concepts from Islam, 3eib refers to socially defined behaviours which are not forbidden, but are generally not acceptable. These vary widely between families, regions and social classes. By asking questions about prevalent social norms these projects open a dialog, giving students and faculty the opportunity to learn about cultural differences and similarities in a studio setting.
Collaboration with Simone Muscolino