Rena Karanouh

My professional journey reflects a fusion of diverse artistic disciplines, academic pursuits, and a commitment to exploring the intricate tapestry of cultural narratives. I recently attained a PhD in Cultural Studies from Queen’s University, where my thesis, “Last Out of Beirut Turn Off the Light - A Chronicle of Beirut Through its Public Spaces,” examines the interplay between public spaces, politics, and societal divisions in Beirut. This extensive research, incorporating narratives, oral histories, and my personal illustrations and photographs, was honored with the 2023 Humanities Outstanding Thesis award.

My educational voyage spans continents, encompassing an MFA in Illustration from the School of Visual Arts in New York City and a BA in Graphic Design from Middlesex University in London. Throughout my nearly three-decade tenure as a self-employed Design Consultant, I've collaborated with esteemed institutions like UNESCO, UNDP, and various NGOs, lending my creative vision to projects ranging from book designs to environmental campaigns.

Teaching has been an integral facet of my career, sharing my expertise across several universities in Lebanon and Canada. My instructional repertoire covers a broad spectrum of design-related courses, from printmaking to illustration and bookbinding. My artistic expression extends beyond the academic sphere, showcased in global exhibitions that capture Beirut's essence through illustrated oral histories and diverse artistic mediums. Additionally, I've dedicated myself to community service, utilizing my skills in cave rope training, environmental advocacy, and creative initiatives for social causes.

Across nearly three decades, I've been a self-employed Design Consultant, collaborating with prestigious institutions such as UNESCO, UNDP, and various NGOs. My portfolio spans diverse projects, including book designs, environmental campaigns, branding initiatives, and corporate reports. Additionally, my role as Head of the Creative Department at Future Television involved managing on-air graphics, marketing designs, and overseeing a team of designers for 16 years. Alongside my consultancy work, I've also been deeply involved in academia, teaching a range of design-related courses across multiple universities in Lebanon and Canada.

My educational journey spans continents and disciplines, starting with a BA in Graphic Design from Middlesex University in London, followed by an MFA in Illustration from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. It culminated in a PhD in Cultural Studies from Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada. My doctoral research, "Last Out of Beirut Turn Off the Light," explored the complexities of public spaces, citizenship, politics, and societal divisions in Beirut, earning me recognition with the 2023 Humanities Outstanding Thesis award.