Special Skills:
Art historian/critic, theatre practitioner and educator with special skills in developing exchange programs and creating cultural and educational ventures with a twist.
History:
Upon his return from London to his native country Lebanon in 1999, Sam taught Art History, Cultural Studies and Theatre at the American University of Beirut and the Lebanese American University . He has also acted as a consultant for several regional theatres with the pioneering Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre. Sam writes about art appreciation, art reviewing and art in education. His latest academic paper is to appear in the 2007 editions of the International Journal of Humanities and the International Journal of Arts, which will be presented respectively at Columbia University and New York University . Sam's current interests revolve around the role of Art in cross–cultural dialogue. Recently he has been exploring contemporary religious iconography, in light of more traditional ones such as Byzantine semiotics and Muslim Aesthetics. The main bulk of his work however is centered on exploring historical incidents where the Arts and Humanities have played a significant role in promoting cross-cultural dialogue.
When not teaching:
Sam is busy chasing some foundation or embassy in order to set up some project or event. Once that's out of the way, he enjoys an animated social life and still manages to spend with his partner and his cat Jazz.
Discoveries/Inspirations:
Sam is inspired by the joy of life and constant sense of discovery that children possess and believes that the key to growth is to never let go of the child within. Once that happens, nothing is interesting anymore and life becomes dull.
Books published/Articles Published/Exhibitions:
A play that he has written about the kidnapped of the Lebanese Civil War is being adapted into a screenplay currently in production through the Agence de La Francophonie.
Education:
University of Bristol , UK MA Art History
University of London , Central School of Speech and Drama, PGDIP/MFA Advanced Theatre Practice |
