The Art team was thrilled to organize the applied art and culture trip to Australia. This was a great opportunity for students to spend time with their peers and offered invaluable experiences in cultural enrichment, education, inspiration, global awareness, and personal growth. Experiencing visual art, music, and theater firsthand broadened their perspectives, complemented classroom learning, and fostered a deep appreciation for the arts.

During their time in Sydney, there were many highlights, with Vivid Sydney being a standout. The festival features spectacular light installations and projections, music performances, and creative conferences and workshops. Iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and various buildings around the city are illuminated with vibrant light displays, attracting millions of visitors from around the world.

Our visual arts students were fortunate to explore the creative side of Sydney by visiting galleries and performances and participating in various artistic activities. The week concluded with an exceptional opportunity to paint with National Gallery finalist Nic Fern at the National Art School. They also explored the “Undo the Day” exhibition. This experience provided valuable insight into university life, allowing them to tour the beautiful campus and witness the creativity of current students.

The senior music students brought back quite a few memorable experiences and surprising moments during this Sydney Arts trip. The students visited several campuses with guided tours at the Conservatorium of Music, JMC Academy, the Academy of Music and Performing Arts, the Australian Institute of Music, and Redfern Community Centre. They also observed live sessions and participated in workshops that allowed them to not only observe other students studying the performing arts in higher educational institutions but also to learn and work with several lecturers at these institutions. The students returned with renewed enthusiasm to further explore their creative abilities.

The theatre students had an enriching experience during their arts trip to Sydney, which included immersive workshops and captivating performances that left a lasting impact on their artistic development. They participated in hands-on workshops at the Sydney Comedy Club, the Sydney Theatre Company, and the Belvoir St Theatre Company. These sessions provided invaluable insights into theatre production, performance techniques, and comedic timing, guided by seasoned professionals. In addition to the workshops, the students watched outstanding live performances, including the production of ‘Chicago,’ with its spectacular choreography and powerful vocals, and the thought-provoking play ‘Never Closer,’ which explored human relationships and emotions. They also attended the Sydney Film Festival, exposing them to a diverse range of films that enhanced their appreciation for filmmaking and inspired their artistic endeavors.

The trip also focused on exploring Australian culture, food, and way of life. Sydney is a multicultural city with an array of food options and friendly locals. We had the privilege of meeting an ISS alum, Philip Lynch, at the Belvoir Street Theatre. He played an Englishman in the performance of ‘Never Closer’.

The trip’s success was owed not only to the city’s beauty but also to our incredible students, teachers, and parents. We deeply appreciate your adventurous spirit, respect for people and places, and openness to new experiences.