Maria Luisa Menano

Bio

Dr Luisa Menano is an Assistant Professor at Zayed University, where she has been teaching undergraduate students since 2020. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Southampton University in the United Kingdom. She brings over 14 years of teaching experience from Portugal, the U.K., and the U.A.E. to her role.
Dr Menano's expertise lies in visual arts, where she employs innovative methods of teaching across a wide range of Visual and Creative Arts disciplines. Her approach bridges classical techniques with contemporary practices, from drawing and sculpture to installation art. Her teaching philosophy encourages students to explore innovative ideas and concepts, combining traditional and modern techniques to create an engaging and dynamic learning experience. Her primary goal is to nurture each student's unique artistic voice.
Her research approach explores the positive impact of art in education, focusing on how creativity can foster innovation in education while promoting students' self-confidence.
To further enhance her research and pedagogical approach, she completed a Foundation and Level 6 Diploma in Art Therapy with the British Association in Art Therapy (BAAT), U.K.
Dr. Menano's artwork explores themes of memory, diaspora, and cultural identity. She has exhibited internationally in Portugal, the U.K., Turkey, Cyprus, and Poland and is included in various collections.
Throughout her career, Dr Menano has been an active participant in international conferences and has contributed to academic journals and books as both author and peer-reviewed.

Office

Abu Dhabi - Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi

Email:

Teaching Areas

Visual Arts, Design and Media Foundation; Traditional and Contemporary Drawing; 3D (perspective) Drawing; Sculpture.

Research and Professional Activities

Integration of Art with an Interdisciplinary approach to foster Innovation; Culture and Identity; Art  as in a therapy approach.