Creativity, Expression, and Community
The arts at Hiroshima International School give students space to express themselves, explore ideas, and discover their unique creative voice. Through visual arts, music, drama, and design,
students learn to think critically, collaborate, and communicate with confidence.
Our program values the creative process as much as the final product. Students experiment, take risks, reflect, and develop the skills needed to bring their artistic visions to life. The arts
are integral to the IB curriculum and to the holistic development of every learner at HIS.
The HIS commitment to PEACE guides our approach, ensuring that creativity grows within a positive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment.
PEACE in the Arts
P – Positive and inclusive spaces
Arts classrooms are warm, encouraging environments where students feel safe to try new ideas, make mistakes, and share their work. Every student is welcomed as an artist.
E – Engaging and purposeful learning
Students explore a wide range of artistic media and processes. They research, reflect, critique, and create with intention. Inquiry and hands-on practice lead to meaningful and memorable learning experiences.
A – Agency and voice
Students make choices about themes, techniques, interpretations, and materials. They learn to talk about their work, consider feedback, and develop their artistic intentions. Their ideas and perspectives shape their creative paths.
C – Character, collaboration, and community
The arts help students build empathy, resilience, and teamwork. Performances, exhibitions, and collaborative projects connect students across grade levels and bring the school community together.
E – Excellence through process and perseverance
We celebrate growth and effort. Students refine their skills over time, embrace challenges, and learn that high-quality work comes from curiosity, patience, and commitment.
Visual Arts
Students explore drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, mixed media, digital art, and design. They learn to use artistic terminology, study artists from around the world, and develop their own visual communication style.
The Visual Arts curriculum encourages students to:
- Experiment with new materials and techniques
- Use sketchbooks and journals to develop ideas
- Analyze artworks and understand cultural context
- Create exhibitions and share their work with the community
In the IB Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme, students deepen their understanding through sustained inquiry, studio practice, research, and reflective writing.
Music
Music is an integral part of the educational life at HIS and we strive to inspire and
nurture each student’s love of music. From the early years onward, students learn to listen, perform, and create through eurhythmics and solfège. As they progress, they engage in
choir ensembles in the primary years, and later explore orchestra, chamber music, and solo performance opportunities in secondary school.”
Our music program in PYP/MYP/DP encourages students to:
- Hone their inquiry, reflection, and critical-thinking skills
- Develop the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Build confidence in the essential processes of music-making
- Engage and integrate sensory and cognitive intelligence in a balanced way
- Foster cultural understanding and international-mindedness
Students collaborate and execute their presentations through real-life music making experience such as Festive Eve; a whole-school musical production, March Recital, and May Spring Concert.
Drama and Performance
Drama builds confidence, empathy, creativity, and communication skills. Students participate in improvisation, role play, movement, storytelling, and scripted performance.
Drama opportunities include:
- Classroom drama units
- Student-led performances
- School assemblies and community showcases
- Large-scale productions such as the annual school musical
Performing arts experiences bring the school community together and give students unforgettable moments of growth and accomplishment.
Design and Creative Technology
Design is an important part of the IB Middle Years Programme. Students learn how to solve problems, think critically, and use technology responsibly and creatively.
Students explore:
- Digital design
- Product design
- Prototyping and model making
- Media, graphics, and layout
- User-centered design processes
Design supports innovation and strengthens creativity across subjects.
Join the Arts at HIS
Creativity thrives at HIS. Whether a student is discovering a new interest or developing advanced artistic skills, our arts programs provide the support, inspiration, and challenge they need to grow.
Hiroshima International School offers the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme.
Students curate and present their artwork in an annual art exhibition, as well as through whole-school displays and gallery installations.