The Artist-in-Residence Programme at Yew Chung International Schools (YCIS) explores the unique concept of working artists creating in a school setting. YCIS actively pursues relationships with artists who are not only experienced in their specialised fields, but who also have a strong interest in education and working with children. These artists inspire and collaborate with students and staff from a broad range of age groups. Working materials, methods, and plans are all shared to help the community understand how an artist works. Work relates to fields of study in all areas of teaching but also focuses on hands-on experiences that show how learning can be fun. Paintings, murals, illustrations, sculptures, comics, films, and performances have all been collaborated on to create projects that both encourage learning and invigorate the school environment. Throughout the school year and on holidays and breaks, they create beautiful, surprising, and thought-provoking work that celebrates the voyage from initial inspiration, to collaboration, and finally into fully realised creation.
The artists’ work demonstrates how art is a meaningful and integral part of life. In addition to running alongside units of study in classes, ideas from issues facing the world today are also deeply explored. Among the many issues investigated, environmental art is focused on, as well as emphasis on using recycled and recyclable materials in the creation of all works. In addition to all of these, students have the unique chance to exhibit their art in the school’s gallery, not just on the walls of the school. This is a rare and exciting opportunity for all students. Most recently, YCIS and the artists have begun the journey of participating in charity programmes where art can have a direct and life-changing impact on today’s global citizens. |
YCIS Shanghai