MFA in Design Students Complete Research Trip to Italy

The group of students and faculty visited the Venice Biennale, as well as galleries and museums in Venice, and took part in a research workshop at Studio Nucleo in Turin.

Studio Nucleo is a collective of artists and designers who focus on contemporary art, design, and architecture. It is directed by Piergiorgio Robino.

The goal of the research workshop was to produce a set of tea tables inspired by the movable furniture used by the nomadic populations that traveled between North Africa and the Middle East. 

Each tabletop was fabricated with a unique material: a 3D-printed customized honeycomb core that was skillfully covered with layers of epoxy resin. A set of removable aluminum legs was included to lift each table to a different height.

The designers explored ideas and patterns inspired by their individual backgrounds. The result was an array of tea tables that mirrored the rich cultural diversity of participants.

Members of the public will be able to view some of the completed projects at a presentation that is being organized to mark the arrival of the Amerigo Vespucci ship at Doha Old Port on December 17-22. 

The Amerigo Vespucci ship, built in 1931, is a symbol of Italian maritime heritage and exploration. Classified as a “tall ship” and named after the famous Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, the vessel is currently on a global tour spanning 2023 to 2025. 

Given that the ship’s visit coincides with Qatar National Day celebrations, the MFA students’ presentation will further underscore decades of cultural exchange, learning and dialogue between Italy and Qatar. 

The Amerigo Vespucci will be accompanied by the Villaggio Italia, a cultural showcase celebrating Italian excellence in craftsmanship and innovation.