Yunlin's Oldest Art Class Exhibits Student Works

Yuanzhang Elementary School, the first school in Yunlin County, Taiwan, to establish a dedicated art program, is celebrating its 41st anniversary with an exhibition of student work. The event, held at the Beigang Cultural Center, features 220 pieces created by 78 art class students, offering a glimpse into their artistic development.

“

Art Together

Established in 1985, the school's art program follows a spiral curriculum, beginning with foundational skills in third grade and progressing to advanced techniques like composition and light and shadow coordination by sixth grade. This year's exhibition, themed "Art Together," showcases a wide range of artistic mediums, including painting, comics, calligraphy, graphic design, and printmaking. A special highlight is a fine woodworking exhibit, developed through a Ministry of Education initiative that brought a local artisan to teach the students.

“

His work 'Roller Coaster' was inspired by the 'terrifying' experience of riding amusement park rides. He used resin board as the creative medium, applying various techniques learned over the years, such as light and shadow capture, gradients, and intaglio and relief printing.

Principal Wang Hsiao-ping expressed her hope that the exhibition, which also includes an online gallery, would allow the public to appreciate the students' application of their learned skills. Alumni, such as Li Chiao-yu, a junior high art teacher, have returned to enroll their own children in the program, citing its diverse and locally relevant curriculum.

“

After joining the art class, I learned techniques like sketching and still life drawing. I also learned from the teacher how to create with different materials, which enriched my work. I will continue to pursue the art field and hope to shine.

Student works on display include a "Roller Coaster" piece by sixth-grader Tu Wen-keng, who utilized resin board and incorporated techniques learned in light and shadow capture, as well as intaglio and relief printing. Another student, Wu Yu-chieh, highlighted how the art program enhanced her skills in sketching and still life, encouraging her to pursue further studies in art. The exhibition runs until June 28.

“

Now the art class curriculum at my alma mater has developed diversely, so I have enrolled my own child. In the past, there was only 'pottery,' but now it can incorporate local characteristics to develop diverse courses. This allows children not only to learn art skills but also to imbue their works with 'local sentiment.'