NYUAD Establishes Mariet Westermann Distinguished MFA Fellowship

NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) has launched the Mariet Westermann Distinguished Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Fellowship to honor Westermann's significant contributions. The fellowship provides financial support and resources to exceptional MFA in Art and Media students, fostering innovative contributions to the arts through rigorous interdisciplinary exploration.

NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) has announced the creation of the Mariet Westermann Distinguished Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Fellowship, aimed at recognizing Westermann's impactful contributions to arts and culture during her tenure as the University's Vice Chancellor.

This annually awarded fellowship will offer select outstanding students financial support and resources to pursue the MFA in Art and Media at NYUAD. The recipients, chosen by a committee, will be distinguished for their exceptional artistic talents and potential to innovate in the arts. The MFA program encourages contemporary research and artistic practices, training students to become visionary thinkers and creators.

Emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach, the program bridges theoretical, cultural, and historical studies, promoting artistic experimentation. NYUAD Vice Chancellor Fabio Piano highlighted that this fellowship celebrates Mariet's leadership in higher education and the arts, acknowledging her invaluable contributions to the university's growth and mission.

Westermann, now Director and CEO of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, steered NYUAD as Vice Chancellor between 2019 and 2024, significantly shaping its success. She also served as the institution's founding Provost from 2007 to 2010.