ArtLink is Creative Connections’ international exchange program designed for 3rd – 12th grade classes.
Students create art pieces that reflect their life and culture, and exchange their work with a partner class in another country. Students then examine and enjoy the art from overseas, gaining new insights into both their own and their partner’s cultures. Finally, students share their insights with one another by posting online thoughtful written responses and photos.
ArtLink with Videoconferencing
After receiving the art, classes that sign up for the videoconference option (highly recommended!) participate in a live one-hour session in which students share their insights with one another face-to-face in real time. The fully facilitated videoconference is available for an additional fee.
Curriculum
ArtLink’s student-based learning model reinforces classroom instruction in social studies, language arts, foreign language and the arts. Additionally, students build bridges with their peers, which promotes global competency and greater cultural understanding. Program curricula is delivered through lesson plans (available in English, Spanish and Japanese) provided to each participant class. The unique partnerships that are formed through these exchanges serve to broaden world views – not just for students, but teachers and parents as well.
Students will gain global competency by:
- Discovering the power of art to convey ideas
- Attaining a new perspective into their own culture
- Expanding their awareness, understanding and appreciation of the lives of their international peers
- Learning cross-cultural communication skills through written and video exchanges
2016-2017 Theme “TEAM Up” English
2016-2017 Theme “TEAM Up” Japanese
2016-2017 Theme “TEAM Up” Spanish
September/October: Create artwork
November: Submit work
January: Receive partners’ art and International Children’s Art Portfolio
February/March: Exchange responses, or videoconference with partner class
May: Enjoy our International Children’s Art Exhibit (live and online)
An energized, motivated partner art class and full contact information
Teacher handbook with comprehensive program guidelines and lesson plans
Our office staff, always available, for advice and support over the course of the program
A thoughtful set of art produced for your class by your partners
Our annual International Children’s Art Portfolio featuring art from many of our partner countries
CulturExchange, our partner teacher networking platform
All overseas shipping (via DHL)
Translation services as needed
Videoconferencing facilitation
