Research studies
A selection of research studies conducted throughout my university education. Each project reflects my passion for my research process and critical thinking skills and demonstrates how my research has informed my creative practice and strengthened my approach to concept development and design.
Senior Project Literature Review: Jalboot — Senior Research
This literature review explores the historical, cultural, and design research that informed the development of my senior project. Focusing on Sharjah's pearl diving heritage, it examines the social and economic realities that shaped the lives of young divers while investigating how historical authenticity, gameplay design, and interactive storytelling can be combined to create culturally meaningful experiences for both local and international audiences.
Plaster Gypsum ornamentation research — Material Culture
This research documents my exploration of traditional Emirati plaster gypsum ornamentation through both hands-on making and historical analysis. By recreating ornamental techniques and studying their cultural significance, architectural function, and contemporary reinterpretations, I examined how craftsmanship preserves heritage while continuing to inspire modern design practices. The project highlights the relationship between material, process, and cultural identity, demonstrating how traditional crafts can inform contemporary creative work.
The Evolution of DreamWorks Animation: The Wild Robot as an Animation Case Study — History of animation
This literature review explores the evolution of DreamWorks Animation through the case study of The Wild Robot, examining how the studio’s artistic approach, storytelling methods, and visual language have developed over time. The research provides historical context on DreamWorks’ transition within the animation industry while analyzing the film’s visual style, character design, environmental storytelling, and emotional themes. It further investigates how these elements contribute to contemporary animation practices and applies the findings to understand the relationship between visual development, narrative design, and audience connection in animated works.
Figure 1. DreamWorks Animation. (2024). The Wild Robot | Official Trailer [Video]. YouTube. URL
Saruq AlHadid Object Research — Research Methods
This research project explores the decorative shell discs discovered at Saruq Al Hadid, an archaeological site in Dubai, focusing on their cultural significance and historical connection to personal adornment traditions in the UAE. Through archival research, applied experimentation, and ethnographic methods, the project investigated the artifact’s possible stories, craftsmanship techniques, and relationship with Emirati heritage.
The research process involved analyzing museum artifacts, studying historical sources, recreating shell forms through traditional-inspired crafting methods, and gathering public interpretations of the artifacts. The final outcome aimed to revive the forgotten practice of shell carving by reimagining ancient adornment techniques through sustainable materials, connecting past traditions with contemporary design practices.