World Art Day: Embracing creativity at King’s InterHigh

Every year on April 15th, art enthusiasts around the globe celebrate World Art Day, a tribute to the boundless creativity and expression that art brings to our lives.

At King’s InterHigh, we are proud to champion the arts as an essential component of our comprehensive online curriculum. As we celebrate this special day, we reflect on the innovative ways we teach art online, the importance of creative subjects, and the unique opportunities our approach provides to students from Year 3 to Year 13.

The vital role of art in education

Art is more than just a subject; it is a vital form of communication and expression. It transcends language barriers and offers a unique avenue for students to explore their identities, emotions, and perspectives. At King’s InterHigh, our art department believes that art education fosters critical thinking, creativity, and cultural awareness: skills that are invaluable in today’s interconnected world.

Creative subjects like art play a crucial role in developing well-rounded individuals. They encourage students to think outside the box, approach problems from different angles, and develop innovative solutions. These skills are not only essential for artistic pursuits but are also highly sought after in various fields, including technology, business, and science.

Teaching art online at King’s InterHigh

While teaching art online has historically presented unique challenges, it also creates wonderful opportunities. At King’s InterHigh, we have embraced the digital medium to provide an enriching art education that leverages technology to enhance creativity and collaboration.

Our virtual classrooms are designed to engage students in interactive and immersive learning experiences, allowing them to explore various art forms and techniques guided live by their teacher using document cameras and screen sharing. In these classrooms, our teachers deliver lively and studio-centred classes, with each student contributing their creativity to the whole — either by showing their work on camera or uploading to our digital portfolios and showcasing progress.

A flexible and personalised approach

One of the key advantages of our online art programme is its flexibility. Our classes are taught live and interactive, but students also have the option to watch lesson recordings and access resources at their own pace, allowing them to delve deeper into topics that interest them.

This personalised approach ensures that each student can develop their artistic skills in a way that suits their individual learning style.

Leveraging technology for creative expression

In complement to the time-tested art techniques our students learn, technology plays a pivotal role in our curriculum. From digital painting and graphic design to virtual reality art installations for all year groups, our students have access to cutting-edge tools that expand the boundaries of traditional art education.

These technologies not only enhance the learning experience but also prepare students for the digital age, where art and technology intersect in exciting and innovative ways.

Fostering collaboration and community

Despite common misconceptions about online school, King’s InterHigh places a strong emphasis on community and collaboration. Our virtual art classes encourage students to share their work, provide feedback, and collaborate on projects. This sense of community fosters a supportive environment where students can learn from one another and grow as artists.

The art department at King’s InterHigh also runs and hosts ART INSPIRED, an annual event open to students at fellow Inspired Education schools around the world.

This event offers a remarkable international experience for King’s InterHigh and wider Inspired families, providing a unique opportunity for students to draw inspiration from the diverse talents of their peers across the globe. It is more than just a competition; it serves as a comprehensive showcase of portfolios and completed works, functioning as a high-quality teaching and learning resource that exemplifies best practices in visual arts education. Our aim is to celebrate student achievements and foster community connections through the transformative power of visual arts.

The importance of creative subjects in a digital world

In an era dominated by technology, the importance of creative subjects cannot be overstated. As automation and artificial intelligence continue to reshape the job market, skills like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking are becoming increasingly valuable. Art education cultivates these skills, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Art has the power to evoke emotions and provoke thought. By engaging with creative subjects, students develop a deeper understanding of their own emotions and those of others. This emotional intelligence is crucial for building strong interpersonal relationships and navigating complex social dynamics.

Art is a reflection of culture, history, and society. Through the study of diverse art forms and traditions, students gain a greater appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. This cultural awareness fosters empathy and understanding, qualities that are essential for building a more inclusive and harmonious world.

Celebrating student achievements

At King’s InterHigh, we are proud of our students’ artistic achievements. From stunning digital artwork to thought-provoking installations, our students consistently push the boundaries of creativity. We celebrate their accomplishments through virtual exhibitions and showcase opportunities through The Arts Space, where students can display their work to a global audience.

These exhibitions not only provide students with a platform to share their art but also offer valuable opportunities for feedback and recognition. They serve as a testament to the talent and dedication of our students and the effectiveness of our online art programme.

Looking ahead: the future of art education at King’s InterHigh

As we celebrate World Art Day, we look forward to the future of art education at King’s InterHigh. We are committed to continually evolving our curriculum to incorporate the latest technological advancements and pedagogical approaches. Our goal is to provide students with an art education that is not only relevant and engaging but also prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

At King’s InterHigh, we are dedicated to nurturing creativity and expression, ensuring that our students have the skills and confidence to thrive in an ever-changing world. As we celebrate this special day, we invite you to explore the world of art with us and discover the endless possibilities it holds.