A Tapestry of Creativity: Art Connects Culture, Curriculum, and Students at Shanghai Qibao Dwight High School

At Qibao Dwight High School (QDHS), the walls aren’t just surfaces – they’re vibrant canvases pulsating with the stories of a diverse student body. Here, art transcends aesthetics, becoming a powerful tool for students to explore and express their cultural heritage, delve into local influences, and connect with the school’s core pillars.

A Global Palette: Representing Cultures Through Visual Art

QDHS students don’t shy away from showcasing their cultural backgrounds. The intricate illustrations of Isa Zhang ’26 weave Celtic patterns with figures from Irish fairy tales, echoing the detailed artistry of The Book of Kells. As Isa explains, this highlights the importance of “in-depth research.” (See below)

The artwork of Peter Hu ’26 wasn’t a mere landscape; it was a dialogue between Eastern and Western cultures. The majestic European scene pulsed with vibrant Chinese Miao Batik patterns — a fiery sun symbolizing warmth, a bird promising prosperity. (See below)

Emily Zhao ’26 takes a more personal turn. Using contrasting black and white faces, she depicts the “present” and “past,” a reflection on the ever-evolving relationship between students and school. The clock and eye imagery serve as a call to cherish the present.

Beyond Technique: The Impact of Art Creation

The act of creating art is not just about the final product; it’s a transformative journey. As Art Teacher Daniel Dias says, “The power of art lies in its ability to cultivate personal growth.

Art allows students to explore identity and express complex ideas.”

Sylvia Chen ’25 delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding cloning in her installation, “Beneath the Skin.”

Sylvia emphasizes the curriculum’s focus on “global perspective,” a value that empowers her to question, explore, and express her own opinions through visual art, looking beyond the art room. As Sylvia shares, “I now engage with literary works, newspapers, and even biological data.”

Transformative Learning Through the Performing Arts

“Performing arts are a powerful tool for cultural exploration,” Theater Arts Teacher Alyzza Pacelo reflects. “As students collaborate, rehearse, and perform, they delve into the traditions, stories, and emotions that underpin various cultures. This immersive experience fosters not only a deeper understanding of these cultures, but also a deeper appreciation for the student’s own cultural background. Through performing arts, students become not only academically and creatively skilled, but also empathetic and engaged citizens of the world.”

Stephanie Gao ’25 says,“I found my spark of genius in a genuine love for the theater stemming from its ability to bring people together, create empathy, tell meaningful stories, and uncover unique aspects of Chinese culture.”

In QD’s Performing Arts Program, students are encouraged to take risks, explore their unique talents, and communicate authentically through various artistic mediums. The resulting tapestry of creativity reflects not just individual students, but the rich mix of culture that defines Qibao Dwight High School.

SHANGHAI QIBAO DWIGHT HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATES ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY!

A full story profiling all the celebrations of this significant milestone — and outlining the achievements of SQDHS in its auspicious first decade — is forthcoming!