Arts and Design School Signals Change

Media Release
Arts and Design School Signals Change

In a change of guard for EIT’s visual arts and design degree, Mazin Bahho has handed over the role of programme coordinator to full-time lecturer Nigel Roberts.

An architect who moved to New Zealand from Iraq, Mazin is taking sabbatical leave to embark on a PhD through Victoria University. His thesis will draw on his links to EIT in effecting changes aimed at improving the environmental performance of a log cabin built on the slopes of Otatara above the main Taradale campus in the mid-1980s.

“So he is not lost to us,” says EIT’s Head of School Dr Suzette Major. “In fact, quite the opposite, with Mazin working on a project that will be really interesting, helpful and valuable to EIT. I expect schools, fellow architects and others with an interest in the environment will be keen to visit us to see his ideas expressed in the building.”

Nigel completed a diploma and bachelor’s degree in visual arts and design at EIT and maintained his connection with the institute by working as an assistant lecturer while completing a distance Master of Arts through the University of Auckland.

Nigel will combine the role of programme coordinator with his art practice and full-time lecturing.

Suzette says the School of Arts and Design has initiated a period of change that will gain momentum over the coming year.

“We are rewriting the degree programme and preparing for an end-of-year relaunch of the school as a tertiary educator tailored to meet the 21st century’s need for flexible, creative and skilled graduates.”

An enthusiastic supporter of this new direction, Nigel says he will be encouraging this year’s degree students to adopt a more project-based approach to their learning.

“One of our aims is to encourage communication, not only between lecturers and students but also among the staff members themselves, and for this to flow on into the wider community. Reflecting that emphasis, we are moving from a classroom focus to more applied projects.”

As an example of that changed direction, he cites a recent, well-publicised project which challenged senior design students to create concepts for developing Napier’s Marine Parade.

“It’s about forging new ways of doing things and constantly challenging the fluidity of practice,” says Nigel, who continues to apply that approach in progressing his own art.

Suzette sees the ease in effecting the changeover of programme coordinator as a sign of the depth of talent in the School of Arts and Design team.

“As Mazin steps aside, we are able to hand over the reins to Nigel – another inspirational, experienced and creative leader. I'm sure the programme will flourish under his guidance".

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