William of Arabia

Supreme Court Building Covered in Giant Dollar Signs

2012-01-29T23:31:00.000+03:00

Supreme Court Building Covered in Giant Dollar Signs

www.youtube.com

To mark the second Citizens United anniversary, we lit up the Supreme Court with giant dollar signs to send a message: rights are for PEOPLE, not corporate "persons."

Why is a Monsanto lobbyist serving as the FDA's Food Safety Czar?

2012-01-29T21:06:00.000+03:00

Why is a Monsanto lobbyist serving as the FDA's Food Safety Czar?

act.credoaction.com

Whyis a former Monsanto lobbyist currently serving as the FDA's foodsafety czar waging war on small dairy farms that produce fresh milk?Join Food Democracy Now! and CREDO in asking President Obama to fireFDA Food Safety Czar and former Monsanto lobbyist Michael Taylor.

Masks from Bali!

2012-01-28T16:07:00.000+03:00

Finally was able to put up and arrange my masks from Tony in Bali!

All authentic old masks from Bali and Java that have been used and danced.

Chinese Police Fire on Tibetan Protesters Again...

2012-01-28T15:22:00.003+03:00

These sure look like Stormtroppers or the soldiers-for-hire in Avatar (ironically the highest grossing movie in Chinese movie history). Image from http://www.sftuk.org/join-mass-lobby/ with the caption: Today, Tibet’s streets are filled with troops, maintaining a state of fear.

Deadly Clashes Spread in Tibetan Areas of China

By KEITH BRADSHER and RICK GLADSTONE (NYT)

Deadly showdowns between Chinese security forces and Tibetans in a restive region of western China spread to a second town on Tuesday, outside advocacy groups reported.

Chinese Police Fire on Tibetan Protesters Again

By KEITH BRADSHER (NYT)

The latest episode was the third of its kind this week, activist groups say.

Teaching Tibetan Ways, School in China Is Unlikely Wonder

By DAN LEVIN (NYT)

Far from the eyes of Beijing technocrats, students learn to write Tibetan and get their first formal introduction to a history, culture and religion that many call embattled.

Job Opening: Assistant Professor of Graphic Design Position at AUK

2012-01-25T15:23:00.000+03:00

Here is the link on the AUK website:

http://www.auk.edu.kw/careers/careers_faculty_positions.jsp

and in the CAA website:

http://careercenter.collegeart.org/jobs/4623984

and the text:

Graphic Design Program

Graphic Design (Position Code No. 11-201- AUKWEB12): The Graphic Design Program at AUK, Division of Arts and Humanities is seeking candidates for full time Assistant Professor of Graphic Design positions to begin August 2012. The successful candidates will be expected to teach graphic design core and foundation courses at all levels in a developing undergraduate BA degree program. They will also be expected to contribute in their area of specialization in one or more of the following areas: digital media, graphic design history and/or photography. Candidates should be comfortable teaching undergraduates in a multi-cultural context with a focus in foundations. Other responsibilities include: engage in research, serve as an academic advisor to Graphic Design majors, contribute to curriculum and program assessment and development. Candidates must have a graduate degree in graphic design (MFA), teaching experience as well as a demonstrated record of professional design practice recognized through publications, exhibitions or equivalent. Interested candidates should submit a completed application as stated above in addition to 10-20 examples of personal work and 10-20 examples of student work.

Application Instructions:

Application packages are to be submitted electronically to faculty@auk.edu.kw (attachments must not exceed 10 MB per e-mail). The package should contain the following:

1) Cover letter, detailing the candidate's specific interest in AUK,and how the candidate's past experience provides a suitable basis forperformance in the position for which they are applying;
2) A current CV;
3) Statement on research and service and statement of teachingmethodology, including curricular development that the individual hasinitiated and executed;
4.) Copies of teaching evaluations;
5) The names and addresses, both electronic and postal, of three referees;
6) Two recent publications /two writing samples;

(For large items such as books, please send hardcopies to the Academic Dean's Office)
Academic Dean's Office,
American University of Kuwait,
Salem Al Mubarak Street,
Opposite Salmiya Palace Hotel,
Salmiya, Kuwait ).

In completing your application, please quote position code number.Incomplete applications will not be considered. The deadline forreceiving applications is February 1, 2012.

IN KUWAIT TOMORROW? YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS!

2012-01-24T20:48:00.000+03:00

Mendeel Um A7mad (N x I x S x M)

Wednesday, January 25, 7-9pm

Contemporary Art Platform Kuwait

Mendeel Um A7mad (NxIxSxM) is a film and sculpture installation by NewYork-based artists Fatima Al Qadiri and Khalid al Gharaballi. The ArabFund for Art and Culture (AFAC) grant-winning project presents thetissue box as ...anunlikely Kuwaiti national icon. A film will be projected inside amonumental tissue box–created in collaboration with Kuwait-baseddesigners Aziz Alqatami and Nanu Al-Hamad. The film aims to create arepresentation of the Chai Dhaha ritual, a traditional female forum,using an all-male cast in homage to Abdul Aziz Al-Nimish–who pioneeredgender role reversal in Kuwaiti theatre.

In Mendeel Um A7mad(NxIxSxM), the Chai Dhaha ritual is set out-of-context, in a weddingballroom to illustrate the absurd spatial conditions of post-oil boomKuwaiti interior aesthetics, where designing to human scale took abackseat to supersized ostentation. The tissue box sculpture acts as adisplaced, large-scale replica of an actual box featured in the film–asixth “character,” performance instigator and voyeur/witness.

Exhibition Date: January 25 - February 9th 2012

Chinese security forces opened fire on Tibetan protesters, killing at least one...

2012-01-24T12:08:00.000+03:00


Chinese security forces opened fire on Tibetan protesters, killing at least one.

Tibetans Fired Upon in Protest in China

By KEITH BRADSHER (NYT)

Police officers opened fire on Tibetan protesters in western China on Monday in the largest violent confrontation in ethnic Tibetan areas of China since 2008.

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR???

see this show before it ends January 18th!

2012-01-16T06:55:00.000+03:00

I am not in Kuwait right now but have heard great things about this exhibit and hope to see it before it closes January 18th!

Confashions from Kuwait: Furniture is the Servant of Fantasy

www.confashionsfromkuwait.com

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012 from Bali!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000+03:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS from Kuwait!

2011-12-25T21:34:00.000+03:00

These fine Santa helpers greeted me when I left my apartment building early this morning on Christmas Day, December 25th, 2011 in Salmiya, Kuwait. Not to make fun of them at all, these Bangladeshi street cleaners work hard for very very little pay but were all smiles this morning and were so happy that I was taking their photo. THANK you for all your hard work and MERRY CHRISTMAS to ALL!!!

HAPPY WINTER SOLSTICE EVERYONE!

2011-12-21T20:45:00.000+03:00

HAPPY WINTER SOLSTICE EVERYONE!

Japanese Sun goddess Amaterasu emerging from a cave.

Thousands of Women Mass in Major March in Cairo

2011-12-21T11:05:00.000+03:00

A poster showing a woman attacked by officers was carried by one of several thousand marchers Tuesday in downtown Cairo.

Thousands of Women Mass in Major March in Cairo

www.nytimes.com

The demonstration that grew by the minute into an extraordinary expression of anger at the treatment of women by the military police.

Shocking Video: 'Blue bra' girl brutally beaten by Egypt military

2011-12-20T21:15:00.002+03:00

Shocking Video: 'Blue bra' girl brutally beaten by Egypt military

www.youtube.com

The blog-o-sphere is boiling at the cruel beating of a female protester by Egyptian military police, who continued battling protesters in Tahrir Square on Sunday. The clashes, into their third day now, have left 10 people dead and hundreds injured. The video uploaded on YouTube Sunday reveals the extreme cruelty of the country's law enforcers during the crackdown. The army soldiers in full riot gear have been savagely beating a seemingly unconscious female protester with big sticks, kicking her and stomping on her chest. Security forces lashed out ruthlessly on armless civilians and burned down tents that had been put up by activists outside the parliament building to camp in protest against the military rule. The internet community therefore questions the methods of the military regime who took over power after the ousting of the ex-President Hosni Mubarak in February.

Art as the politics of the impossible

2011-12-20T18:53:00.000+03:00

In light of a recent art exhibition in Doha, Hamid Dabashi writes that art must respond to a renewed Arab consciousness that is aware of what is happening in the Arab World.

Cai Guo-Giang's opening at Arab Museum of Modern Art in Doha [Hamid Dabashi/ Al Jazeera]

Art as the politics of the impossible

aje.me

Art scenes in the Arab world should reflect and anticipate the art that will emerge from these historical times.

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens in Kuwait– Bidoon Demonstrations

2011-12-19T08:37:00.001+03:00

Kuwait City, Kuwait
December 19, 2011

Subject: Emergency Message for U.S Citizens 21-2011– Demonstrations

Please circulate the following message without additions or omissions immediately to all U.S. Citizens within your area of responsibility.

A sit-in to demonstrate solidarity with the Bidoon (stateless people) is scheduled potentially for 8:00pm at Determination Square on Monday, December 19 in downtown Kuwait City. There are also reports of possible demonstrations in support of Bidoon rights tomorrow afternoon at Taima in the city of Jahra around 3:00 pm. An increased police and security presence is expected in these areas.

Spontaneous and/or planned demonstrations do occur in Kuwait in response to global, regional, and local developments. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid areas where demonstrations are ongoing and exercise caution if within the vicinity of large gatherings.

Please stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and continue to practice personal security awareness.
U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://travelregistration.state.gov. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at their destination. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.
Updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). For further information, please consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information can be found. In addition, the Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those traveling or living in foreign countries. You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook.

The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer.

U.S. citizens in Kuwait who would like to receive future Emergency and Informational Messages from the Embassy directly by e-mail may sign up for this service by sending an e-mail to the following address: join-wardenmessagekuwait@mh.databack.com

This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov
Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays. The current holiday schedule for 2011 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html.

Kim Jong-il is dead: pretty weird and scary guy...

2011-12-19T07:56:00.000+03:00

Just for fun- it is also important to note that the N. Korean media also reports that Kim Jong-il bowled a perfect game-300, on his first time out bowling!

Kim Jong-il: Best Golfer in the World

www.oobgolf.com

This is from a couple years ago- but it's too good not to post. North Korean leader, Kim Jong-il is the best golfer in the world, hands down. On his first ever trip to the golf course, he shot 38-under par, including 5 hole-in-ones! This is reported by the government controlled media. He routine...

Kim Jong-il's regime is even weirder and more despicable than you thought.

www.slate.com

Visiting North Korea some years ago, I was lucky to have a fairly genial "minder" whom I'll call Mr. Chae. He guided me patiently around the ruined and starving country, explaining things away by means of a sort of denial mechanism and never seeming to lose interest in the gargantuan...

Major Historic Egyptian Library Devastated by Fire

2011-12-19T00:48:00.001+03:00

A major library gets torched in Cairo during protest clashes with the Egyptian military.

A scene from the fire. (via lemonde.fr/Reuters)

Major Historic Egyptian Library Devastated by Fire

hyperallergic.com

La Libération has confirmed that the 213-year-old Institut d’Égypte, which was founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798, has been ravaged by fire.

a few posts about my artwork...

2011-12-17T16:44:00.000+03:00

radio interview on art exhibit
Click on the words above to hear my interview on the local Madison radio show WORT's 8 o'Clock BUZZ with Jonathon Zarov about my art exhibit titled "veiled ramblings."

Exhibit lifts veil on Middle Eastern tradition
Click on link above or below to read Lindsay Christian's review of my exhibition, "veiled ramblings"...

new photos of my work in the 50/20 exhibit!
"Kuwait 50," acrylic and collage on MDF, 2011, 202 cm x 202 cm ...you might have seen the below Link before but they added some new and c...
review of my work in the 50/20 exhibit!
Exhibition 50/20 Part II|The Sultan Gallery « pretty green bullet
last chance to see 'veiled ramblings'
William Andersen, Global Brands Kids (Kuwait Series #1) , 2010, oil, ink & acrylic on digital print on canvas, 36 x 26 inches. veiled ...
my artwork in exhibition TONIGHT!
Mary Louise Schumacher says, "...MAM will be showcasing some of our community's most important artists, including Liz Smith, Wi...
my artwork exhibited at Bayt Al-Othman
Two of my artworks are on exhibit for the "17th Cultural Festival of Qurayn" at Bayt Al-Othman this January. They produced a very nice cat...

I don't think things are going to end well in Wukan!!!

2011-12-17T16:37:00.002+03:00

I don't think things are going to end well!!!

Relatives carried a picture of Xue Jinbo, who died in police custody after villagers chose him to negotiate a solution to a land deal in Wukan, China.

Wukan Revolt Takes On a Life of Its Own

By MICHAEL WINES (NYT)

Anger at a possible land deal boiled over in Wukan, China, after a popular villager chosen to negotiate a solution died in police custody.

Worth the cost in blood and dollars? US to lower flag to end Iraq war...

2011-12-15T15:10:00.000+03:00

US to lower flag to end Iraq war
www.bbc.co.uk

The US flag is to be lowered in Baghdad in a ceremony formally marking the end of US military operations in Iraq, after nearly nine years of war.

Opening tomorrow of Arabic Calligraphy exhibit, 7pm, Lexus Center Shuwaikh

2011-12-11T21:58:00.001+03:00

Tomorrow at Lexus Center Shuwaikh, to celebrate the Beauty of Arabic Alphabet with the works of

11 artists Inspired from the Holly Quraan and Hadith, Literature and Poetry.

The exhibition titled " Letters' Whisper" is in cooperation with Al Sayer Group and Boubyan Bank

Opening will be at 7:00 pm and the show will run for three days only!

Chinese Contemporary Art in the Middle East!

2011-12-10T15:06:00.001+03:00

One of my favorite artists now has a solo show up in Qatar! I believe Doha's Mathaf, the Arab Museum of Modern Art, is really smart in bringing in a big name artist from outside the region, but also just as importantly, not the typical Western artist. I like Cai Guo-Qiang because he consistently comes up with thoughtful but unconventional ways to talk about his own heritage as well as historical and contemporary global trade and exchange. His artwork is smart but fun and easily appreciated by a larger audience. I hope to go soon!

Pictured above: Installation view of Fragile (2011), Gunpowder on 480 panels of porcelain, 318 x 1800 cm (125 3/16 x 708 11/16 in.) overall, approximately 30 x 39.75 cm (11 13/16 x 15 5/8 in.) each panel, 480 panels in total, Commissioned by Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Photo by Hiro Ihara, Courtesy Cai Studio

Link to Cai Guo-Qiang's Exhibit in Doha

And from Art Kuwait:

www.artkuwait.org

Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Qatar – Exhibition of Cai Guo-Qiang

Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art presents Cai Guo-Qiang: Saraab, a major exhibition featuring newly commissioned work by Cai Guo-Qiang. As Cai’s first solo exhibition in the Middle East and the first single-artist exhibition presented by Mathaf, Saraab opens new...

lots of art opening in Kuwait this week!

2011-12-10T13:54:00.001+03:00

Boushahri Gallery: Jafar Islah Exhibition

www.artkuwait.org

Boushahri Gallery cordially invites to the Opening of Exhibition Kuwaiti artist Jafar Islah Saturday, 10th of December, 2011 at 7 pm

Dar Al Funoon Gallery: Artificial Color by Jeffar Khaldi

www.artkuwait.org

Dar Al Funoon Gallery invites to the Exhibition Artificial color by Jeffar Khaldi Opening Monday, 12th of December, 2011 at 7 pm Artist statement: My work usually takes view of social, cultural issues, fused with political undertones.My perspective on the...

Contemporary Art Platform Kuwait

Would be delighted if you joined us in celebrating this young talent.

The Colorful World of Hamad Al Humaidhan

Wednesday, December 14 at 5:00pm at Contemporary Art Platform Kuwait

opening tonight Ghadah Alkandari, Dar Al Funoon, 7pm!

2011-12-05T00:32:00.001+03:00

Dar Al Funoon cordially invites you to an exhibition of works from Ghadah Alkandari

PrettyGreenBullet

The Second Exhibition

Opening at 7pm - 9pm on Monday 5th December 2011

One Night Only!

Twelfth Tibetan Self-Immolates in anti-China protest

2011-12-03T18:12:00.001+03:00

Tibetan monks lie under a banner showing flames.
Picture: AP Photo/Ashwini Bhatia

Twelfth Tibetan Self-Immolates, but Survives

By EDWARD WONG (NYT)

A former Tibetan monk set fire to himself on Thursday as an anti-China political protest in Tibet’s Chamdo township.

Exhibit of foreign artist living in Kuwait opens Sunday, December 4, 7pm

2011-12-02T18:25:00.001+03:00

I have two artworks included in this exhibit, hope you can make it!

Facebook censors Ai Weiwei nude protest pictures!

2011-11-23T20:14:00.001+03:00

Is Facebook Never Sorry?

www.huffingtonpost.com

I posted Ai Weiwei's images on Facebook. I was sent a warning, so I censored the photos using Facebook logos. Tuesday morning my account was disabled without notice or further details...

HAPPY 48TH BIRTHDAY DOCTOR WHO!

2011-11-23T19:35:00.001+03:00

From the first aired episode November 23, 1963!

The Tardis takes off for first time - An Unearthly Child - BBC

www.youtube.com

Fearing that his time machine will be discovered if he lets school teachers Barbara and Ian go, the Doctor sets the TARDIS on its first journey. When the TARDIS finally materialises, it is on a barren, rocky landscape, with an ominous shadow falling across it. Classic clip from the 1963 four-part story 'An Unearthly Child', the very first Doctor Who...

Egyptian protesters are devising ingenious ways to protect themselves!

2011-11-22T20:29:00.001+03:00

I love these goggles!

Sacrifice - Blog - The Arabist

www.arabist.net

The Arabist has been run by freelance journalist since 2003 as a labor of love. We don't make much from ads, so please contribute to keep this site going.

Cultural Exchange Offers Respite in U.S.-China Tensions

2011-11-22T20:25:00.001+03:00

Why are there not more programs like this?

Cultural Exchange Offers Respite in U.S.-China Tensions

www.nytimes.com

The success of the U.S.-China Forum on the Arts and Culture raises an uncomfortable question for the United States: Why are there not more programs like it?

Exhibition Opening, Nov. 23, 7pm at Dar Al Funoon

2011-11-22T19:26:00.001+03:00

Dar Al Funoon Cordially invites you to an exhibition of Sculptures and Drawings

By Jamal Abdel Rahim

The Sounds of Love and Freedom

Opening on Wednesday 23rd of Nov. 2011 and continuing through the 3rd of Dec. 2011

The artist will be present to launch his book Om Kalthoum

Analysis: Challenge to PM brings Kuwait a breath of Arab Spring

2011-11-21T20:01:00.001+03:00

Analysis: Challenge to PM brings Kuwait a breath of Arab Spring

www.reuters.com

KUWAIT (Reuters) - Kuwait has been little touched by the wave of unrest that has swept some of its neighbors this year. But the storming of parliament by protesters last week brought it just a taste of...

Horrifying image of Tibetan nun in flames on street in latest self-immolation protest against China

2011-11-21T19:51:00.001+03:00

Horrifying image of Tibetan nun in flames on street in latest self-immolation protest against China

www.dailymail.co.uk

The image is taken from a video released by protest group Students for a Free Tibet, who smuggled it out of southwest China following the incident.

"the Vampire Squid" conquers Europe!

2011-11-21T16:08:00.001+03:00

What price the new democracy? Goldman Sachs conquers Europe

www.independent.co.uk

The ascension of Mario Monti to the Italian prime ministership is remarkable for more reasons than it is possible to count. By replacing the scandal-surfing Silvio Berlusconi, Italy has dislodged the undislodgeable. By imposing rule by unelected technocrats, it has suspended the normal rules of demo...

Possible Protest Gathering at the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait on November 20, 2011

2011-11-20T13:06:00.001+03:00

Kuwait City, Kuwait
November 20, 2011

Subject: Possible Protest Gathering at the U.S. Embassy on November 20, 2011

Please circulate the following message without additions or omissions immediately to all U.S. Citizens within your area of responsibility.

There are unconfirmed reports of a possible silent protest gathering in front of the U.S. Embassy on Sunday, November 20 at 19:00. The gathering may take place near the main Embassy gate. An increased police and security presence around the Embassy compound is expected.

Spontaneous and planned demonstrations take place in Kuwait from time to time in response to world events or local developments. At times, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. Please avoid the areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large gatherings. Please stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and practice personal security awareness at all times.
U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://travelregistration.state.gov. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at their destination. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.
Updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). For further information, please consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information can be found. In addition, the Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those traveling or living in foreign countries. You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook.

The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer.

U.S. citizens in Kuwait who would like to receive future Emergency and Informational Messages from the Embassy directly by e-mail may sign up for this service by sending an e-mail to the following address: join-wardenmessagekuwait@mh.databack.com

This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov
Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays. The current holiday schedule for 2011 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html.

a woman posts a nude photo of herself on her blog, and Egypt goes nuts!

2011-11-19T20:51:00.001+03:00

I've been wanting to post something on this for a few days now but have been hesitant since most of the facebook posts that I have seen contained a copy of the offending image (and I do not want to get in any kind of trouble - given where I currently live and work!) ...then Nicholas Kristof comes to the rescue:

Nicholas Kristof
So a woman posts a nude photo of herself on her blog, and Egypt goes nuts:http://nyti.ms/vOPw6F . It's so sad, because there are plenty of things that Egyptians should be going nuts about, not least the way the military council is arresting and torturing people to stay in power. Earlier this year, from Cairo I wrote about how the army was arresting female democracy activists and subjecting them to forcible "virginity exams" as a way to humiliate them:http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/27/opinion/27kristof.html . Now, that's a great reason for a conservative country to be outraged, but most Egyptians shrugged and said that the young women were probably hussies anyway. The issue died. I wish we could accept that what's really horrific and offensive isn't a woman who chooses not to wear clothes but rather a woman who is forced to wear a veil or burka. Your thoughts?

Aliaa Magda Elmahdy, Egypt’s Nude Blogger, Stirs Partisan Waters

www.nytimes.com

Aliaa Magda Elmahdy had to expect outrage from conservative Muslims when she posted nude photographs of herself online. But liberals have been critical, too.

Police Pepper Spray UC Davis Students = Professor Demands Chancellor Resign!

2011-11-19T19:27:00.001+03:00

Police pepper spraying and arresting students at UC Davis

www.youtube.com

Title says all. During peacefully Occupy Movement, police came in to tear down tents and proceeded to arrest students who stood in their way. Once students p...

UC Davis Professor Demands Chancellor Resign Over Pepper Spraying Of Students | The New Civil Rights

thenewcivilrightsmovement.com

A UC Davis Assistant Professor is demanding the resignation of the University’s Chancellor over Friday’s pepper spraying of students at an Occupy Wall Street protest

Neutrinos still faster than light in latest version of experiment ...

2011-11-18T18:14:00.001+03:00

Scientists from Cern have repeated their finding of neutrinos travelling faster than the speed of light. Photograph: Cern/Science Photo Library

Neutrinos still faster than light in latest version of experiment ...

www.guardian.co.uk/science/2011/.../neutrinos-still-faster-than-light?...

Finding that contradicts Einstein's theory of special relativity is repeated with fine-tuned procedures and equipment.

"We Need to Ai Weiwei": The Ai Weiwei Question on Chinese Social Media

2011-11-18T16:38:00.001+03:00

As with the Wenzhou train collision last year, Chinese netizens are using images to circumvent censorship and show their support of Ai Weiwei.

This one shows Ai being whipped, with different types of punishments. The one the guard is holding says “tax evasion”. Others include stirring up trouble and causing a revolution.

"We Need to Ai Weiwei": The Ai Weiwei Question on Chinese Social Media

hyperallergic.com

What has the response to Ai Weiwei’s tax case been like in China? Netizens are using images to circumvent censorship and show support.

How I Learned to Stop Fearing and Love Exotic Art - opens at CAP on Nov. 20th

2011-11-17T16:39:00.001+03:00

Celebratedartists from the Middle East and North Africa represented at JAMM’s inauguralexhibition in Kuwait

Strategic art advisory JAMM to hold anexhibition in Kuwait of 40 artworks by Contemporary Arab and Iranian artists

JAMM, anindependent art advisory, will host its inaugural exhibition in Kuwait at theContemporary Art Platform (CAP) warehouse located next door to the Life Centerin industrial Shuwaikh (block 2, street 28). Curated by Ali Bakhtiari, theexhibition, entitled How I Learned to StopFearing and Love Exotic Art, will open on 20th November 2011. The show will end on 10^thDecember 2011.

Highlightingthe use of writing in the field of contemporary Arab and Iranian art, JAMM”sexhibition will feature artworks that incorporate text in its various forms-calligraphy, graffiti, quotations, poems and sometimes just a single letter.Featuring works by both emerging and established Middle Eastern artists, theparticipating artists include Parviz Tanavoli, Hassan Hajjaj, Farideh Lashai,Katya Traboulsi, Fareed Abdal, Amira Behbehani, Shezad Dawood, Nargess Hashemi,Susan Hefuna and Farhad Moshiri.

“This is awonderful opportunity to present the works of contemporary Arab and Iranianartists and to showcase works in various artistic media that incorporate text.The use of writing is familiar theme in the field of contemporary Arab andIranian art. We want to highlight and celebrate that.”

– SheikhaLulu Al-Sabah, co-founder of JAMM

About JAMM:

JAMM was founded by Kuwait basedart-journalist and former Middle East Director for Philips de Pury, Lulu M.Al-Sabah and former head of Christie’s, Middle East, Lydia Limerick. Theirmission is to create cultural projects without geographical boundary.

Projects range from large-scale exhibitions and events tosmall-scale activities focuses on the development of the art market in theMiddle East and other key regional markets. For more information on JAMM,please visit www.jamm-art.com

For more information on JAMM, please contact

Lulu Al Sabah: lasabah@jamm-art.com

Gazala Shaikh: gazalashaikh@jamm-art.com

Ai Weiwei Absent (艾未未‧缺席)

2011-11-17T11:28:00.001+03:00

Ai Weiwei, Forever Bicycles, 2011

Absent indeed - Taipei Times

www.taipeitimes.com

Ai Weiwei Absent (艾未未‧缺席), the appropriately titled exhibition currently on view at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum (TFAM), is the best show of the Chinese artist’s work you are likely see in Taipei for at least the next few years. Unfortunately, the displayed works reveal little about why he has become...

Opening Tonight 7pm Boushahri Gallery!

2011-11-15T13:36:00.000+03:00

The Rise of the West—or Not? A Revision to Socio-economic History

2011-11-15T12:39:00.001+03:00

While researching the voyages of Zheng He, I found this interesting take-down of
one of the central grand narratives of the West:

The Rise of the West—or Not? A Revision to Socio-economic History

Frank Miller pissed off about Occupy Wall Street and Muslims!

2011-11-15T11:25:00.001+03:00

I guess I did not realize that comic book artist Frank Miller what such a cranky, angry, Islamophobic hypocrite:

Frank Miller sure is pissed off about Occupy Wall Street
www.avclub.com

Comic book crank Frank Milller’s political philosophy has become as angry—and jagged, and messy—as his drawing style pretty much since 9/11,

Ai Weiwei vows to fight amid new challenge from authorities

2011-11-14T17:22:00.000+03:00

Ai Weiwei vows to clear tax charges amid fresh challenge from authorities - Guardian - latestChina.com

...Hours before the deadline for paying the 15m yuan (£1.47m) fine, tax officials told the artist and human rights campaigner he could not use his mother's house as collateral and that there were problems with the funds he had raised in a public appeal.

"I only heard this morning about this money problem," Ai told the Guardian on Monday. "They put us in a very difficult situation. They are not following the law. There is nothing I can do"....

Petition to Release Tibetan poet Tashi Rabten

2011-11-12T21:09:00.001+03:00

Chinese Government: Release Tibetan poet Tashi Rabten

www.change.org

High Peaks Pure Earth, 100 Thousand Poets for Change, Split This Rock, members of the Tibetan community, and human rights/freedom of speech supporters...

Ai Weiwei to challenge tax demand

2011-11-12T18:59:00.001+03:00

Ai Weiwei to challenge tax demand

www.bbc.co.uk

Chinese artist and government critic Ai Weiwei says he will use money loaned from supporters to challenge his tax demand in court.

a natural solution for pests and fertilizer?

2011-11-09T15:39:00.000+03:00

This seems like such a natural solution to so many problems, not sure why this is not used more (I can only speculate that pesticide and chemical fertilizer companies have something to do it). I have heard about this practice being successfully used in China too, but the below link is about rice farmers in the Philippines that have found an ally as they try to protect their crops from pests and the effects of global warming. Farmers use ducks to help keep the water in their paddies fresh, and to get rid of weeds and other pests that could damage their crops. Duck manure also works as a good organic fertilizer, which helps to decrease the amount of money farmers spend on harmful pesticides.

Feathered labour for Philippines rice farmers

www.aljazeera.com

Integrated rice-duck farming has helped farmers to spend less money on harmful pesticides.

More than 1,300 Qataris hospitalised for over eating over Eid Al Adha

2011-11-09T00:51:00.000+03:00

More than 1,300 Qataris hospitalised for over eating over Eid Al Adha

gulfnews.com

More than 1,300 people needed treatment at a Qatari hospital after suffering from stomach upsets caused by excessive eating on the first two days of Eid Al Adha

The East India Company & Cultural Exchange

2011-11-05T15:13:00.002+03:00

National Maritime Museum, London

A striking example of how the East India Company influenced Chinese culture is this 19th-century Chinese painting, "A Trading Junk," with a ship in the background flying the Company flag.

How Maritime Routes Led to Cultural Exchanges

By RODERICK CONWAY MORRIS (NYT)

The greatest single force in the expansion of the British Empire was the East India Company, and now it finally has its own permanent gallery in London.

Chinese Citizens send Ai Weiwei over a million RMB in half a day!

2011-11-05T14:31:00.001+03:00

The charges against Ai Weiwei are so obvious false, Chinese citizens send him over a million RMB online in half a day in protest against the powers that be...

Chinese Citizens Pay Ai Weiwei's Taxes

www.huffingtonpost.com

Not since Spartacus has there been such a widespread act of generosity for an activist and leader. On November 1, the Chinese government declared that dissident artist and activist Ai Weiwei owed $2.4 million dollars in unpaid taxes, and had to pay it back within the next 2 weeks.

Ai Weiwei supporters send him over a million RMB online in half a day: Shanghaiist

shanghaiist.com

On Tuesday, dissident-artist Ai Weiwei (艾未未) who was freed not too long ago from an 81-day detention, was slapped with a RMB15 million fine for tax evasion, a princely sum he has been given 15 days to cough up. The very next day, his mother Ai Ying (高瑛) and brother Ai Dan (艾丹) announced that they we...

Chinese netizens help Ai Weiwei pay taxes

2011-11-04T20:45:00.000+03:00

Chinese netizens help Ai Weiwei pay taxes
Financial Times

By Kathrin Hille and Jamil Anderlini in Beijing Thousands of Chinese have donated money online to help Ai Weiwei pay a $2.4m tax bill, in a rare fundraising ...

11th Tibetan sets self on fire to protest Chinese rule...

2011-11-04T20:11:00.000+03:00

Tibetans-in-exile hold placards showing the monks who had set themselves on fire to protest against the Chinese rule in Tibet during a protest march in Dharamshala. (AFP Photo/Lobsang Wangyal)

Tibetan Nun Sets Herself on Fire in Sichuan Province, China

By ANDREW JACOBS (NYT)

Qiu Xiang died Thursday after setting herself on fire in southwest Sichuan Province, becoming the 11th Tibetan to embrace a grisly protest against Chinese rule.

Met’s new Islamic wing: explore 360° panoramas!

2011-10-28T20:46:00.000+03:00

The New York Times
Take an interactive tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s new Islamic wing. Explore 360° panoramas of the Moroccan Court and the Damascus Room. Zoom in on The Emperor’s Carpet. What are your favorite pieces from this interactive tour? Anything capture your interest?

At the Metropolitan Museum, a New Wing, a New Vista

www.nytimes.com

On Nov. 1, after eight years of renovations, the Metropolitan Museum of Art will open its new Islamic wing.

Tenth Tibetan Monk Sets Self on Fire!

2011-10-26T15:19:00.000+03:00

Tenth Tibetan monk burns self in west China

BEIJING (Reuters) - A Tibetan Buddhist monk doused himself in fuel and set himself ablaze in far western China on Tuesday, the tenth ethnic Tibetan this ...

Tibetan Monk Said to Set Himself on Fire in Protest

By RICK GLADSTONE (NYT)

The group Free Tibet said the self-immolation happened outside a monastery in Garze, and that the monk’s identity, condition and whereabouts were not known.

For more on Tibet in this blog see:

William of Arabia: Two Tibetan Monks Set Themselves on Fire in Protest

William of Arabia: China 'disappeared' Tibet's Panchen Lama

lecture at Milwaukee Art Museum: Emperor Qianlong & Tibetan ...

William of Arabia: New siege on Tibetan Monastery by Chinese ...

William of Arabia: China Bans Reincarnation Without Government ...

William of Arabia: China 22 years later...

William of Arabia: Opening Reception this Friday, August 27, from ...

Opening TONIGHT at AUK! Environmental Art Exhibit!

2011-10-26T12:26:00.000+03:00

Tunisia voting and Libya declared FREE!

2011-10-23T22:17:00.000+03:00

Landmark Tunisia vote under way

www.bbc.co.uk

Polls open in Tunisia in the first free election of the Arab Spring, nine months after the fall of former President Zinedine el Abidine Ben Ali.

New rulers to declare Libya free

www.bbc.co.uk

Libya's transitional government is to declare national liberation, days after the killing of former leader Colonel Gaddafi and the capture of his stronghold of Sirte.

Logo Exhibition opening reception Oct. 24, 4-6pm

2011-10-22T14:14:00.000+03:00

Stefan Kanchev - World of Logos Exhibition - opening reception, Monday, October 24, 4-6pm.

Rev. Al Sharpton reacts to Iraq troop withdrawal

2011-10-21T23:23:00.000+03:00

Americans relieved to see the end in Iraq

www.msnbc.msn.com

Oct. 21: Rev. Al Sharpton reacts to President Barack Obama’s troop withdrawal announcement.

The rise and fall of Qaddafi

2011-10-20T23:15:00.002+03:00

Unlikely Rise to Inevitable Fall, How Qaddafi Fooled Libya and the World

www.theatlantic.com

Though he sold himself as either a costumed buffoon, a wild-eyed terrorist, or a wary reformer, Qaddafi's rule was one of the most cunning and improbable feats of modern dictatorships

Dar Al Funoon Gallery Opening at 7pm, Oct. 17

2011-10-15T10:23:00.000+03:00

Dar Al Funoon Gallery: Bader Al Bassam

Dar Al Funoon Gallery cordially invites to an exhibition of works by Bader Al Bassam Pulse, Snap and Beyond.

Opening at 7pm on Monday 17th of October, 2011

click for more info: Dar Al Funoon Gallery: Bader Al Bassam

The Future is NOW!

2011-10-14T20:27:00.000+03:00

This still has a few bugs that make this girl say some crazy stuff, but it is pretty cool already! Click here to talk to the future!

Ai Weiwei named most powerful person in art world

2011-10-14T17:17:00.000+03:00

Ai Weiwei 'most powerful artist'

www.bbc.co.uk

Chinese artist Ai Weiwei is named the most powerful person in the art world, according to a poll compiled by ArtReview magazine.

US toilet paper killing the Sumatran Tiger!

2011-10-11T14:54:00.000+03:00

Tell Major US Retailers to Stop Selling Rainforest Destruction

AsiaPulp & Paper (APP) has been driving Indonesian rainforestdestruction at an alarming rate to make their throw-away tissueproducts. Their destructive ways are not only polluting our climate,but also pushing wildlife like the Sumatran tiger towards extinction.Less than half of Indonesia’s rainforests remain because of companieslike APP. Take action and tell major U.S. retailers to stop sellingrainforest destruction by avoiding APP tissue products.

Egyptian Art Exhibit, FA Gallery, 12 Oct, 7pm

2011-10-11T10:18:00.000+03:00

تحت رعاية الدكتور سليمان العسكري

رئيس تحرير مجلة " العربي "

يتشرف غاليري فا بدعوتكم لحضور المعرض الفني الاول لهذا الموسم

"ملامح مألوفة ...بين واقع وأسطورة"

معرض جماعي يضم نخبة من 14 فناناً مصرياً..ليكون محطة بارزة تعكس المشهد الفني المصري المعاصر

من خلال توليفة متميزة من الاسماء التي ترصد تجارب أجيال فنية مختلفة

الافتتاح الاربعاء 12 اكتوبر, 2011- الساعة 7:00 مساء

يستمر المعرض لغاية 1 نوفمبر2011

Under the Patronage of Dr. Sulaiman Al Askari

Editor in Chief of "Al-Arabi " Magazine

FA Gallery is honored to invite you to the opening of our First Art Show for the New season

" Familiar Features..Between Reality & Myth "

A group Exhibition By 14 Established & emerging artists from Egypt …a stop by an outstanding

station that reflects the contemporary Egyptian formative scene, through the introduction of distinctive

artists who together constitute a visual panorama observing the artistic tendencies among

different generations.

Wednesday 12 Oct . 2011. 7:00 pm

The Show will Run till 1^st of Nov.2011

Feel Free To forward this Email

Abed Al Kadiri

Gallerist & Consultant.

FA Gallery- Modern and Contemporary Art

Owned by OTB Creative Concepts

Kuwait:

Tel: 00965 22 49 8999

Fax: 00965 22 47 0055

Mobile: 00965 97 68 9913

Email:aalkadiri@thefagallery.com

P.O.Box 27869 Safat 13139 Kuwait

Souq Al Watanyiah , Fourth Floor, Office 405-406

Lebanon:

Tel/Fax: 00961 545 6764

P.O.Box : 45-239 Hazmieh

www.thefagallery.com

www.otbcconcepts.com

Boushahri Gallery opening, Oct. 11, 7pm

2011-10-10T23:08:00.000+03:00

"يسر قاعة بوشهري للفنون"

دعـــوتكم لحضــور حفــل افتـتاح معـــرض الفنان :

"طارق بطيحي"

وذلك في تمام الساعة 7,00 من مساء الثلاثاء الموافق 11 اكتوبر2011

"Boushahri Art Gallery"

Cordially invites you to attend the opening ceremony of an exhibition For the artist:

“Tareq Butaihi”

On Tuesday, 11October 2011, at7.00 pm

"We would be delighted by your presence"

للمعلومات الإضافية والاستفسار لا تترددوا في الاتصال بنا:

تليفون: 25621119

فاكس: 25621119

boushahrigallery@hotmail.com , boushahrigallery@gmail.com بريد إلكتروني:

العنوان: السالمية، شارع بغداد، عمارة 36، مقابل مسجد اللهيب.

أوقات الدوام اليومي: 10 – 1 صباحا"

5 – 9 مساءا"

ما عدا يوم الجمعة ومساء الخميس

For any additional info, please do not hesitate to contact us

Tell: +965 25621119

Fax: +965 25621119

E-mail boushahrigallery@gmail.com ,boushahrigallery@hotmail.com

Address: Salmiya – Baghdad St., Building 36, Front of AL- Laheeb Mosque.

Daily working hours: Morning 10 – 1 pm.

After noon 5 – 9 pm.

Except on Friday and the evening on Thursday

3 women awarded 2011 Nobel Peace Prize

2011-10-10T09:53:00.000+03:00

The Nobel Peace Prize for Women's Rights

TheRandomFact.com

Three influential women from Africa and the Middle East were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 2011 on Friday in a decision which firmly draws attention to the suppression of women’s rights around the world....

Happy 100th Birthday Republic of China!

2011-10-10T09:22:00.000+03:00

Happy 100th Birthday since the founding of the Republic of China!

The first female Arab winner of the Nobel Peace Prize

2011-10-10T09:15:00.000+03:00

Tawakkol Karman: Nobel Peace Prize laureate

english.aljazeera.net

The first female Arab winner of the prize is a Yemeni protest leader, journalist, politician, and mother.

"Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice." - Steve Jobs (February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011)

2011-10-06T10:41:00.000+03:00

Steve Jobs’s Patents

www.nytimes.com

The 317 Apple patents that list Steven P. Jobs among the group of inventors offer a glimpse at his legendary say over the minute details of the company’s products.

"Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice." - Steve Jobs (February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011

Media derides the Wall Street protest at its peril...

2011-10-06T08:51:00.000+03:00

Think Occupy Wall St. is a phase? You don't get it - CNN.com

www.cnn.com

Douglas Rushkoff: Media derides the Wall Street protest at its peril. The net-driven movement is a preview of a new sustainable disussion on disconnect in U.S.

Keith Olbermann Reads The Statement Released By The Wall Street Protesters - 2011-10-05

2011-10-06T08:45:00.000+03:00

...for those who are still saying that the Wall Street Protesters don't have a clear message - HERE it is!

Keith Olbermann Reads The Statement Released By The Wall Street Protesters - 2011-10-05

www.youtube.com

Keith Olbermann Reads The Statement Released By The Wall Street Protesters - 2011-10-05

Invitation : Arab _ Fall - 4th - 20th October, 2011

2011-10-01T17:32:00.001+03:00

Gallery Tilal Invitation- October 2nd 2011- Sami Mohammad Exhibition

2011-10-01T09:36:00.000+03:00

Contemporary Art Platform | Opening Tonight

2011-09-28T16:40:00.001+03:00

Contemporary Art Platform | Opening Tonight

I am re-posted this from the great artist ghadah (pretty green bullet)
who visited the gallery earlier for a sneak-peak.

a mischievous sprite and skulls: works by fadi yazigi and damien hirst respectively

Tonight is the launch of the Contemporary Art Platform at the Lifestyle Center in Kuwait. For the first time since 2006's exhibition Unity in Diversity at the Dar Al-Funoon gallery, you can find, in Kuwait, a collection of this caliber under one roof. From Andy Warhol to Shireen Nishat, this is the art lover's candy store! Read more of this post

and/or see: Contemporary Art Platform opens in Kuwait!

The Future of the Middle East’s Art World: An Interview with ArteEast Artistic Director Barrak Alzai

2011-09-27T20:15:00.000+03:00

The Future of the Middle East’s Art World: An Interview with ArteEast Artistic Director Barrak Alzai

www.khaleejesque.com

Barrak Alzaid is the Artistic Director at ArteEast. His deep knowledge of the Middle East’s contemporary art stems from his long involvement with the art industry and numerous powerhouse galleries, curators, and artists.

Contemporary Art Platform opens in Kuwait!

2011-09-27T17:58:00.000+03:00

Farewell Wangari Maathai

2011-09-26T22:59:00.000+03:00

"We are called to assist the earth," said the late Wangari Maathai, "to heal her wounds and in the process heal our own — indeed, to embrace the whole creation in all its diversity, beauty, and wonder."

Farewell Wangari Maathai

sierraclub.typepad.com

Wangari Maathai, founder of Kenya's Green Belt Movement, winner of the 2004 Nobel Prize and 1991 Goldman Prize, died of cancer on Sunday in Nairobi. Click to read more about her amazing work.

Identified: NYPD Officer Who Maced Pen of Peaceful Female Protesters

2011-09-26T21:13:00.000+03:00

Identified: NYPD Officer Who Maced Pen of Peaceful Female Protesters
www.commondreams.org
A photographer has identified the cruel and cowardly NYPD Supervisor who point blank maced a penned in group of young women Saturday at the Occupy Wall Street protests.

Two Tibetan Monks Set Themselves on Fire in Protest

2011-09-26T17:35:00.001+03:00

Lobsang Kalsang and Lobsang Konchok of Kirti Monastery are the 3rd and 4th monks to have self-immolated in the last six months, an act that Tibet had never seen before 2009. The two young monks, both aged 18, called for religious freedom and said "free Tibet" before they set themselves on fire.

Please join Students for a Free Tibet in a protest today at the United Nations, Dag-Hammerskoljd Plaza, E 47th St. between 1st and 2nd. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/27/world/asia/two-tibetan-monks-set-themselves-on-fire-in-protest.html

Two Tibetan Monks Set Themselves on Fire in Protest

www.nytimes.com

Two young Tibetan monks set themselves on fire Monday at an embattled monastery in western China to protest Chinese policies in the area, according to a Tibet advocacy group.

See also:
China Bans Reincarnation Without Government Permission

China Bans Reincarnation Without Government Permission

2011-09-26T15:27:00.000+03:00

This is insane:

China Bans Reincarnation Without Government Permission

www.huffingtonpost.com

In one of history's more absurd acts of totalitarianism, China has banned Buddhist monks in Tibet from reincarnating without government permission. According to a statement issued by the State Administration for Religious Affairs, the law, which goes into effect next month and strictly stipulates th...

Contemporary Art Platform – Opening in Kuwait

2011-09-26T01:06:00.001+03:00

Contemporary Art Platform – Opening in Kuwait

www.artkuwait.org

‎28th of September 7pm: Reception 8pm: Discussion: Arab Identity & the Global Art Market ( Isabelle de Brueyere (Christie’s Dubai) – “Art & Economics”, Isabella Ellaheh Hughes (Curator) – “Arab Artwork, Past to Present”, Steve Sabella (Artist) – “Intersection of...

Unbelievable protest footage. NYPD drag girl by her hair

2011-09-25T23:57:00.000+03:00

Unbelievable protest footage. NYPD drag girl by her hair

www.youtube.com

Saudi Arabia gives women right to vote (but not to drive!)

2011-09-25T21:17:00.001+03:00

This is a big move in the right direction, but if you read the article, everyone's rights, but especially the rights of women, are still very limited in Saudi Arabia:

Saudi Arabia gives women right to vote

www.guardian.co.uk

Saudi women will have the right to stand for office and vote in future local elections, says King Abdullah

Change in the news for the September Equinox

2011-09-23T23:45:00.000+03:00

Stars and planets are lining up for the change of seasons during the autumnal equinox this year - so many changes happening in the news too! Wall Street protests, Palestine bid, and faster than the speed of light?

Autumnal Equinox 2011

news.nationalgeographic.com

The march of the seasons—winter, spring, summer, and fall—stems from the "clearly definable" position of the sun on the summer and winter solstices, according to Judith Young, a professor of astronomy at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.

Particles Moved Faster Than Speed of Light?

news.nationalgeographic.com

If confirmed, the astonishing claim would upend a cardinal rule of physics established by Albert Einstein nearly a century ago. "Most theorists believe that nothing can travel faster than the speed of light. So if this is true, it would rock the foundations of physics," said Stephen Parke, head of t...

Keith Olbermann, Michael Moore Criticize Media For Ignoring ...
Huffington Post
The Occupy Wall Street group has been camped out in a plaza a block from the ... Olbermann said that, for some reason, the protesters had been "Ignored by ...

Occupying Wall Street ...by Marc Adler

www.michaelmoore.com

For months, every time I passed the New York Stock Exchange, I wondered why people weren’t rioting in the streets. Do Americans not realize that Wall Street has completely hijacked our government and economy?

Abbas submits Palestine statehood bid, gets standing ovation at UN

RT
Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas got a standing ovation while addressing the UN General Assembly - shortly after submitting the bid for full statehood to ...

a few posts about my artwork...

2011-09-22T09:40:00.000+03:00

radio interview on art exhibit
Click on the words above to hear my interview on the local Madison radio show WORT's 8 o'Clock BUZZ with Jonathon Zarov about my art exhibit titled "veiled ramblings."

Exhibit lifts veil on Middle Eastern tradition
Click on link above or below to read Lindsay Christian's review of my exhibition, "veiled ramblings"...

new photos of my work in the 50/20 exhibit!
"Kuwait 50," acrylic and collage on MDF, 2011, 202 cm x 202 cm ...you might have seen the below Link before but they added some new and c...
review of my work in the 50/20 exhibit!
Exhibition 50/20 Part II|The Sultan Gallery « pretty green bullet
my artwork in exhibition TONIGHT!
Mary Louise Schumacher says, "...MAM will be showcasing some of our community's most important artists, including Liz Smith, Wi...
last chance to see 'veiled ramblings'
William Andersen, Global Brands Kids (Kuwait Series #1) , 2010, oil, ink & acrylic on digital print on canvas, 36 x 26 inches. veiled ...
my artwork exhibited at Bayt Al-Othman
Two of my artworks are on exhibit for the "17th Cultural Festival of Qurayn" at Bayt Al-Othman this January. They produced a very nice cat...

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens in Kuwait – Demonstration Notice 14-2011

2011-09-21T16:51:00.000+03:00

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens – Demonstration Notice 14-2011
September 20, 2011
Please circulate the following message without additions or omissions immediately to all U.S. citizens within your area of responsibility.

An anti-corruption demonstration is planned for the early evening hours at Determination Square on Wednesday, September 21 in downtown Kuwait City. An increased police and security presence is expected in and around the capital.
There are also reports of possible demonstrations in support of Bidoon rights on Wednesday, September 21 in the cities of Jahra, Al-Sulaibyah and Al-Ahmadi. An increased police and security presence is also expected in these areas.
Spontaneous and planned demonstrations take place in Kuwait from time to time in response to world events or local developments. At times, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. Do not let curiosity get the best of you; avoid the areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large gatherings. Please stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and practice personal security awareness at all times.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, as well as the Country Specific Information for Kuwait can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). You can also download our free Smart Traveler App for travel information at your fingertips and follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.
The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer.
U.S. citizens living or traveling in Kuwait are encouraged to enroll in the Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad".
This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov
Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays. The current holiday schedule for 2011 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html

my artwork in exhibition TONIGHT!

2011-09-16T20:47:00.001+03:00

Mary Louise Schumacher says, "...MAM will be showcasing some of our community's most important artists, including Liz Smith, William Andersen, Steven Burnham, Juan Juarez, Michael Julian, Mat Rappaport, Chris Smith, Dan Klopp, Christopher Niver, Marc Tasman, Gary John Gresl, Mark Klassen, artist team Shana McCaw and Brent Budsberg, Peter Barrickman, Kim Miller, Harvey Opgenorth, John Riepenhoff, Paul Amitai, Steve Wetzel, Iverson White and Tate Bunker."

This week in art: tough choices - JSOnline

www.jsonline.com

This week is shaping up to be one of those weeks when hard choices must be made. Friday night, the Milwaukee Art Museum will be celebrating its 10th anniversary with a special MAM After Dark event.

Bidun protests in Kuwait - from Mona Kareem

2011-09-15T15:51:00.000+03:00

Interesting blog post below that perhaps sheds a little more light on the recent Emergency Message for U.S Citizens in Kuwait – Demonstration Notice that states, "Youth activist groups have called for a demonstration on Friday, September 16, 2011 in Kuwait City."

Mona Kareem: Bidun Protesters on Trials

monakareem.blogspot.com

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens in Kuwait – Demonstration Notice

2011-09-14T17:43:00.000+03:00

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens – Demonstration Notice 13-2011

September 14, 2011

Please circulate the following message without additions or omissions immediately to all U.S. citizens within your area of responsibility.

Youth activist groups have called for a demonstration on Friday, September 16, 2011 in Kuwait City during the early evening hours at Safat Square and possibly Determination Square located opposite the National Assembly. An increased police and security presence is expected throughout the day in and around the capital.

Spontaneous and planned demonstrations take place in Kuwait from time to time in response to world events or local developments. At times, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. Do not let curiosity get the best of you; avoid the areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large gatherings. Please stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and practice personal security awareness at all times.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, as well as the Country Specific Information for Kuwait can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). You can also download our free Smart Traveler App for travel information at your fingertips and follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.
The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer.
U.S. citizens living or traveling in Kuwait are encouraged to enroll in the Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad".
This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov
Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays. The current holiday schedule for 2011 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html

William of Arabia

Supreme Court Building Covered in Giant Dollar Signs

Why is a Monsanto lobbyist serving as the FDA's Food Safety Czar?

Masks from Bali!

Chinese Police Fire on Tibetan Protesters Again...

Job Opening: Assistant Professor of Graphic Design Position at AUK

IN KUWAIT TOMORROW? YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS!

Chinese security forces opened fire on Tibetan protesters, killing at least one...

see this show before it ends January 18th!

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012 from Bali!

MERRY CHRISTMAS from Kuwait!

HAPPY WINTER SOLSTICE EVERYONE!

Thousands of Women Mass in Major March in Cairo

Shocking Video: 'Blue bra' girl brutally beaten by Egypt military

Art as the politics of the impossible

In light of a recent art exhibition in Doha, Hamid Dabashi writes that art must respond to a renewed Arab consciousness that is aware of what is happening in the Arab World.

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens in Kuwait– Bidoon Demonstrations

Kim Jong-il is dead: pretty weird and scary guy...

Just for fun- it is also important to note that the N. Korean media also reports that Kim Jong-il bowled a perfect game-300, on his first time out bowling!

Major Historic Egyptian Library Devastated by Fire

A major library gets torched in Cairo during protest clashes with the Egyptian military.

a few posts about my artwork...

I don't think things are going to end well in Wukan!!!

Worth the cost in blood and dollars? US to lower flag to end Iraq war...

Opening tomorrow of Arabic Calligraphy exhibit, 7pm, Lexus Center Shuwaikh

Chinese Contemporary Art in the Middle East!

lots of art opening in Kuwait this week!

Contemporary Art Platform Kuwait

Would be delighted if you joined us in celebrating this young talent.

opening tonight Ghadah Alkandari, Dar Al Funoon, 7pm!

Twelfth Tibetan Self-Immolates in anti-China protest

Exhibit of foreign artist living in Kuwait opens Sunday, December 4, 7pm

Facebook censors Ai Weiwei nude protest pictures!

HAPPY 48TH﻿ BIRTHDAY DOCTOR WHO!

From the first aired episode November 23, 1963!

Egyptian protesters are devising ingenious ways to protect themselves!

Cultural Exchange Offers Respite in U.S.-China Tensions

Why are there not more programs like this?

Exhibition Opening, Nov. 23, 7pm at Dar Al Funoon

Analysis: Challenge to PM brings Kuwait a breath of Arab Spring

Horrifying image of Tibetan nun in flames on street in latest self-immolation protest against China

"the Vampire Squid" conquers Europe!

Possible Protest Gathering at the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait on November 20, 2011

a woman posts a nude photo of herself on her blog, and Egypt goes nuts!

Police Pepper Spray UC Davis Students = Professor Demands Chancellor Resign!

Neutrinos still faster than light in latest version of experiment ...

"We Need to Ai Weiwei": The Ai Weiwei Question on Chinese Social Media

As with the Wenzhou train collision last year, Chinese netizens are using images to circumvent censorship and show their support of Ai Weiwei.

How I Learned to Stop Fearing and Love Exotic Art - opens at CAP on Nov. 20th

Ai Weiwei Absent (艾未未‧缺席)

Ai Weiwei, Forever Bicycles, 2011

Opening Tonight 7pm Boushahri Gallery!

The Rise of the West—or Not? A Revision to Socio-economic History

The Rise of the West—or Not? A Revision to Socio-economic History

Frank Miller pissed off about Occupy Wall Street and Muslims!

Ai Weiwei vows to fight amid new challenge from authorities

Petition to Release Tibetan poet Tashi Rabten

Ai Weiwei to challenge tax demand

a natural solution for pests and fertilizer?

More than 1,300 Qataris hospitalised for over eating over Eid Al Adha

The East India Company & Cultural Exchange

National Maritime Museum, London

Chinese Citizens send Ai Weiwei over a million RMB in half a day!

Chinese netizens help Ai Weiwei pay taxes

11th Tibetan sets self on fire to protest Chinese rule...

Met’s new Islamic wing: explore 360° panoramas!

The New York TimesTake an interactive tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s new Islamic wing. Explore 360° panoramas of the Moroccan Court and the Damascus Room. Zoom in on The Emperor’s Carpet. What are your favorite pieces from this interactive tour? Anything capture your interest?

Tenth Tibetan Monk Sets Self on Fire!

Opening TONIGHT at AUK! Environmental Art Exhibit!

Tunisia voting and Libya declared FREE!

Logo Exhibition opening reception Oct. 24, 4-6pm

Rev. Al Sharpton reacts to Iraq troop withdrawal

The rise and fall of Qaddafi

Dar Al Funoon Gallery Opening at 7pm, Oct. 17

Dar Al Funoon Gallery: Bader Al Bassam

The Future is NOW!

Ai Weiwei named most powerful person in art world

US toilet paper killing the Sumatran Tiger!

Tell Major US Retailers to Stop Selling Rainforest Destruction

Egyptian Art Exhibit, FA Gallery, 12 Oct, 7pm

HAPPY 48TH BIRTHDAY DOCTOR WHO!

The New York Times
Take an interactive tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s new Islamic wing. Explore 360° panoramas of the Moroccan Court and the Damascus Room. Zoom in on The Emperor’s Carpet. What are your favorite pieces from this interactive tour? Anything capture your interest?