JEDDAH: The inaugural IB2 Visual Arts Exhibition opened at the British International School in Jeddah with a display of 70 pieces created by eight students.
The exhibition, which runs until March 7, includes diverse themes and art forms including painting, printmaking, photography, digital art, sculpture and installations. The works reflect the unique journey of each artist.
High school principal Pierre Scothorne said the IB art section was very demanding: “Every student studying art in the program is featured in this exhibition. Over the course of two years, they must create a comprehensive body of work that includes a significant written component. (It) is not Just a creative topic; it's very academic. Students carefully organize their exhibition space, explaining the reasons behind their artistic choices. Their grades are based not only on their artwork, but also on the written explanations and overall presentation of the exhibition.
Layal Ali Reda's work explores concepts of identity and culture, drawing inspiration from ancient Jeddah as a key element in her family history. (supplied)
He added: “The purpose of this exhibition is to showcase the exceptional talent of our students and the high-quality teaching that supports them. “It is a celebration of their hard work and dedication.”
Scothorne also highlighted the diverse career paths students can follow later.
“Some students will continue their studies in art at university, while others will pursue different careers such as fashion or architecture. Our students have successfully gained admission to the best universities in the world, thanks to the high standards of their work. The quality of their artwork greatly impacts their college applications and future opportunities.
Layal Ali Reda's work explores concepts of identity and culture, drawing inspiration from ancient Jeddah as a key element in her family history. (supplied)
“The real challenge is to maintain motivation and consistently produce high-quality work over the course of the biennium, more like a marathon than a sprint. This challenge extends to both students and teachers, requiring ongoing support and encouragement.
Scothorne said he wants his school to become a leader in the arts and added that he values partnerships with other organizations and individuals that would support that. He also hopes to offer an artist-in-residence program in time.
Shehsia Khan, Head of Visual Arts, shared her insights into the depth and customization of high-level student art projects.
(L to R) Jude Kayal, Ayesha Rehman, Mayar Abdul Nnabi, Mrs. Shehzia Khan, Loulwa Al-Banna, Shahad El-Adawy, Sara Kreidieh, Mashael Iqbal. (Supplied)
“All students participating in this exhibition are enrolled in high-level arts,” she said. “This year they explored deeply personal themes showcasing a variety of topics including fame, journeys, life stages, Saudi women’s empowerment, freedom, addiction, and the human body,” she said. Culture and identity.”
“Each student has chosen a subject close to their heart, demonstrating individual and emotional explorations. The IB program offers students the freedom to choose their artistic direction after mastering basic skills in oil painting, graphic design and sculpture.
Khan said the exhibition served as a final exam, as each student had to display at least eight pieces, organize their display, and provide detailed curatorial justifications and exhibition scripts.
Mashael Iqbal, one of the student models, said: “I aimed to challenge norms and highlight the complexities of fame. By delving into topics related to sexuality, style acting, and the darker side of celebrity lifestyles, I did my best to provoke thought and arouse emotion. Each item in my gallery represents an aspect of the industry that often goes unnoticed. My passion for art and storytelling keeps me thinking about the future in the creative field, with a keen interest in exploring animation and digital media.
Saudi art student Sarah Kreidiyeh added: “The subject of my exhibition revolves around the human body, and delves into deeper dimensions that go beyond the physical aspects usually associated with it. Through my artistic works, I aim to highlight masculinity, reluctance to seek help, confused identities, and societal issues such as racism, emotions, stress, and body dysmorphia. My collection includes paintings, photography, digital pieces, and sculptures. I plan to pursue my studies in architecture and eventually return to Saudi Arabia to work professionally in this field.
Even the nursery level pupils of the school are part of the exhibition. Helen Al Hoss, Head of the Early Years Department, said: “Our children begin their artistic journey at the age of two years. Guided by the Reggio Emilia approach, children are encouraged to explore diverse ways of expressing their creativity and ideas.
“The theme of our exhibition was community. Some of our children ventured into the community to understand its importance to them. They then acted out their interpretations that included elements such as nature.
