International exhibition "Tolerance" opens at AUS

Featuring the work of renowned graphic designers from around the world, Tolerance, a travelling poster exhibition, was inaugurated today at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) Library. Created by the New York-based graphic designer Mirko Ilić, the show offers a unique opportunity for students, faculty members, illustrators, designers and art enthusiasts to see beautifully designed posters by some of the world’s most well-known graphic illustrators.

The show, which runs until July, has been organized by Kevin Badni, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Art and Design, and Riem Ibrahim, Assistant Professor of Art and Design, at AUS.

Speaking about the travelling exhibition, Ilić explained the role of the designer in promoting tolerance:

“The initial idea of this exhibition was to invite well-known graphic designers to create posters based on their understanding of tolerance in their mother tongue. One of the conditions was that the exhibition is placed in a public space, among the citizens, not in art galleries. The purpose of the exhibition is not only displaying posters, but in gathering and approaching people. Artists are the ones who promote tolerance and peace, and facilitate the reconciliation process.”

Commenting on the show, Badni said:

“Mirko Ilić delivered a lecture at the AUS College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) in 2013, and we are very happy to still be collaborating with his studio in New York. This is the first time the Tolerance international show has been displayed in the UAE. This show not only provides our students with an exciting opportunity to see the work of world-famous designers such as Milton Glaser from the USA and Japan’s Yuko Shimizu, but we also hope that the posters will initiate a positive dialogue with the viewers.”

The exhibition reinforces CAAD’s commitment to providing its students in particular and the community at large with opportunities to engage with some of the leading global names in the field of architecture, art and design.