Egypt: Art Between Revolutions

Presenter: Dean Panttaja, Department of Theatre Arts

Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2013 | 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Whitewater Room, Idaho Commons

Abstract
This talk will examine the nature of art, artists, and societal impact between the first and second revolutions. It will provide a glimpse into the complexity of an awakened artist class, increased free speech, evolving limitations on art, and the hopelessness of instability in the creative process. Prof. Panttaja will provide a pedagogical and practical viewpoint from a semester-long sabbatical in Cairo, Egypt.


Biography
Dean Panttaja is a professor of design, technology, and management in the Department of Theatre Arts. His professional scenic and lighting designs have been produced both nationally and internationally.

In his 30-year career as an artist and arts educator, he has served as chair of the Department of Theatre Arts and producing artistic director of the Idaho Repertory Theatre. He has received the Idaho Commission on the Arts Fellowship for Theatre and a Design Fellowship with the Kennedy Center for the Arts.

His design credits include work at the Malak Gabr Theatre (Cairo), Falaki Theatre (Cairo), the Kennedy Center, Colorado Shakespeare Festival, Tacoma Actors Guild, Santa Barbara Repertory Theatre, Pacific Art Center, Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Idaho Repertory Theatre, Idaho Theatre for Youth, Spokane InterPlayers, Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre, Festival Dance and Performing Arts, Showtime, and Dark Horse Films.