By Zayed Alzyoud
The University of Jordan (UJ) President Prof. Nathir Obeidat on Tuesday inaugurated an art exhibition organised by the School of Arts and Design, held as part of a typography course that reflects the university’s emphasis on practice-based learning and student creativity.
Organisers said the exhibition, held in line with Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II’s calls to protect the environment, featured 130 artworks produced by 40 students.
The opening was attended by UJ vice presidents, alongside Dean of the School of Arts and Design Prof. Jihad Al-Ameri, as well as vice deans, department heads and faculty members.
The works explored environmental themes, including the need to keep public spaces clean and reduce plastic waste that threatens marine ecosystems. Several pieces highlighted the impact of pollution on wildlife and natural habitats.
One artwork focused on tree planting as a key line of defence against environmental degradation, underscoring the role of trees in filtering harmful gases, protecting soil and supporting ecological balance.
Another spotlighted Jordan’s national flower, the Black Iris (Iris nigricans), warning that litter around its natural habitats can disrupt seed dispersal and contribute to a decline in its population.
Students also drew attention to protecting archaeological sites from pollution, solid waste and irresponsible tourism, cautioning that neglect could erode heritage sites and harm local tourism and economic activity.
In closing, Obeidat praised the students’ creativity and the academic supervision behind the exhibition, stressing the role of art and design education in raising environmental awareness and fostering socially engaged creativity among students.