Hosted at the Arts Club Chicago, this visually immersive presentation invites attendees to rethink images of the Modern Middle East through the lens of popular and visual culture. The journey traces Rana Salam’s evolution—from childhood influences and career milestones to a socially conscious approach to design—seamlessly merging art, fashion, film, publishing, interiors, and branding.

Presented by Alex Aubry, director of the Fashion Resource Center at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, this talk offers an insightful exploration of Salam’s WoW and Wonderful World, a unique creative vision born of her deep love for the Middle East. Experience how her signature style transforms perceptions and elevates brand magnetism within a culturally rich context. The talk also asks to reconsider images of the Modern Middle East through its popular and visual culture. A journey from childhood, career and to a socially conscious approach to design, Salam shows how she merges the worlds of art, fashion, film, publishing, interiors and branding.