Visual Arts

We believe that artistic expression has a vital role in life and learning and that all students can find their own particular 'voice' through the arts. The set of skills which belongs to the visual arts enhance learning and personal development.

 

The school has a designated art room with a kiln. ISA art students excel and their prize-winning work is often exhibited at external venues.

 

The art curriculum enables students to:

 

Develop creative and technical skills

 

Develop aesthetic sensibility and a sense of judgement relating to art

 

Develop a capacity for imaginative and creative thought

 

Take risks and experiment

 

Develop skills of observation

 

Develop ability to articulate and communicate ideas and feelings

 

Develop ability to value the work of other artists and respond thoughtfully to art form all cultures and traditions

 

 

The visual arts programme allows the students to work using a variety of media and techniques, in 2D and 3D. Skills are developed in drawing, painting, modelling and textile work. Understanding the historical and cultural contexts and developing an appreciation for visual art are important. Technology is used to support learning. Regular trips to local art galleries and events are part of the programme, as is collaboration with local art schools. Photography, film and media projects are supported. Visual Arts is offered as an IB Diploma subject.

Dramatic performance is well established at ISA and the many performances throughout the year, from ELC to Middle School, enrich community life.

 

Drama lessons focus on the creative process, providing students with a wonderful avenue for creative self-expression and a 'safe place' to experiment and make mistakes. Skills learnt through drama strengthen self-awareness and build confidence.

 

In the Lower School, story-telling, role-play and drama games are used to support learning. In Grades 6 to 8, Drama is taught as a specialist subject, on a weekly basis. The focus is on developing voice and movement, learning to create, present, reflect and revise work. Students are encouraged to see connections to their own lives and to enduring issues. Performances have become a regular feature at assemblies.

 

There are numerous opportunities for performance both in school and at external venues. and we are excited about a planned cooperation with the Augsburg Theatre. The annual Middle School musical is performed at a theatre in Ausgburg. Performances to date include: ‘The Wizard of Oz’, ‘Death to the Minotaur’, 'Suessical', 'Charlotte's Web' and 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'. Venues include the Maximilian Museum for which ISA students wrote and recorded the English audio guide.