How Hong Kong schools are harnessing art to boost students’ creativity and confidence

Though exam scores remain the prime gauge of success in Hong Kong’s education system, both local and international schools still see the vital importance of letting students express their creative talents through art-themed activities and hands-on involvement.

To that end, there are increasing instances of outside professionals being engaged as artists-in-residence or leaders of one-off projects where they teach skills and techniques, offer guidance, give encouragement and inspire new ways of perceiving the world around us.

The results of these initiatives are not just seen in classrooms, hallways and end-of-term exhibitions. In certain cases, they are also being shared with a much wider audience – perhaps as eye-catching murals in prominent locations around the city, on brightly decorated trams, or in booths at Christmas markets and seasonal fairs.

And that, of course, gives the creators a greater sense of self-confidence, independence and belief in their own ideas and abilities.

Teachers at ESF Sha Tin College have no doubt that practical art classes are essential for enhancing personal qualities and conceptual awareness, and for making others think differently. This was particularly evident during the school’s recent involvement in the mural project “Transforming Walls: Transforming Communities” with Sha Tin Hospital.

Collaborating with well-known local artist Taka, 17 students produced something with visual impact and deeper meaning on the themes of regrowth and rebuilding.

The project also served to highlight the value of working with external partners who can bring distinct skills to an activity, such as new perspectives on how to develop ideas and what it takes for creative works to connect significantly with the wider community.