Experiencing the Summer Shows: a student perspective

Being a part of this creative community, one can only imagine the vast array of artistry nurtured by the numerous lecturers and tutors, who inspire students to engage in exuberant processes, pushing us to deliver work of the highest quality. The exhibition is set against the familiar backdrop of the University campus, transforming the grounds where we walk from lecture to lecture, from meeting points to casual hangouts, into the centre stage for the works we have created. These works are inspired by our learning modules, experiences, aesthetics, and dreams. The space itself is transformed and transcended by students admiring each other’s efforts and ambitious projects.

Only we, as students, can fully grasp the experience of being at AUB and the inspiration that flows from this creative community, shaped by the individuals we encounter. Each person here is both influenced and an influencer, embodying the beauty and diversity of the works showcased in the exhibition. Having had the opportunity to view the projects, I was amazed by the inspirational work on display. From fantastical art pieces embracing the sublime, surrealism, and various other movements, to realistic graphic presentations that delve into creative marketing – each piece not only captivates you but also draws you into its process. The quality of the work is so compelling that it instantly makes you want to purchase the items. Stepping into an exhibition by our community feels like being immersed in an affluent soirée, where every step unveils something awe-inspiring.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of this creative community is the collaboration. For example, I was invited to model for a fashion project inspired by the fluid movements of dancers. Eager and excited, I embraced the opportunity, tasked with showcasing the fashion pieces and bringing the designer's vision to life through photography.

The familiar campus grounds, once just pathways to lectures and workshops, had transformed into a canvas where light and angles merged to create the perfect shot. This experience added new dimensions to my perspective, deeply enriching my understanding of the campus' diverse spaces. Walking through the exhibition with my colleagues, especially visiting the fashion unit, was equally rewarding. We compared assorted designs and styles, and I had the unique pleasure of seeing the same dress I had modelled now displayed on a mannequin. The joy and sense of accomplishment in viewing an art piece, a fashion statement, and understanding the narrative and thought process behind it was indescribable. Sharing this moment with my peers, amidst the vibrant movements, exhibitions, and artists in the background, was truly momentous.

As first-year Master of Architecture students, our journey began at the architecture exhibition. Viewing our work at the end of the semester entails a shared sense of relief and triumph. It is the reward of being creatives in a community that celebrates our successes, as we view our works collectively. From there, we continued our exploration of the various projects exhibited across the campus, each space symbolic of the process and creation of the projects displayed in the Summer Shows.