IB is an International Baccalaureate literally. Baccalaureate loosely translates to a degree. And international. Well, you know what that means. There is much interest in developing international learners and fostering the idea of approaching and understanding Visual Arts on an international scale. If you are taking IB DP VA, you may be at an International School – so you have some idea of how to relate to your ‘international world’.
International-mindedness goes beyond simply knowing about visual arts from around the world. It is about developing internationally-minded artists and learners.
International mindedness enables us to work in harmony with colleagues from around the world and to benefit from a wide range of knowledge and experience. It promotes respect, encourages collaboration, and sees students develop high levels of empathy and compassion.
In your artworks/journal/thoughts, give some thought to how your art affects or is effected/affected by internationalism.
Seven signs of an internationally-minded person:
- knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of different cultures
- increased self-awareness
- increased empathy
- ability to collaborate with peers from different backgrounds
- deepening knowledge and understanding of global issues
- ability to see themselves as responsible, global citizens
- language skills
In my classes, we always discuss our different opinions and observations of culture: where we come from (my students come from many different countries of origin), where we are (at the moment it is Hong Kong), what other countries do our peers come from, what cultures inform us, what cultures attract us, and what can we learn from each other.
What do you need to know to create a more inclusive art studio or classroom?
How can you support an awareness of your classmates culture and your own culture?
