The Power of Art: Forging Social Connections and Creativity for Online School Students

In today’s digital age, creating art can feel like the click of a button away, removing the process of discovery or collaboration that comes from developing and exploring art over time. However, the advent of virtual platforms and tools like AI, offer new avenues to create and appreciate art, and offer valuable opportunities for students to socialise at an online school.

One of the most enriching ways to foster these connections is through online art activities that call for active participation, group reflection and supportive feedback.

Following a handful of fun student meet-ups for the CGA community across the world, we share ways students can engage with their peers, enhance their creativity, and build lasting friendships through virtual art experiences.

The role of art in online school friendships

Art has always been a universal language, capable of bridging gaps between individuals. For high school students, engaging in art activities online not only allows them to express themselves but also helps them find like-minded peers across a diverse school community. Here are some compelling reasons why art can be a fantastic medium for socialising:

1. Shared interests

When students participate in art activities, they naturally bond over their shared passion. Whether it’s painting, digital art, or photography, these common interests that span a range of extracurriculars can spark conversations and collaborations that lead to deeper friendships and a sense of wellbeing.

2. Creative Expression

Art encourages students to express their thoughts and emotions. Sharing personal artwork in a supportive online environment can foster vulnerability and trust among peers. This openness can lead to meaningful connections as students learn more about each other's perspectives and experiences.

3. Collaborative Projects

Online platforms make it easy to collaborate on art projects, regardless of geographical limitations. Students can work together on pieces, participate in virtual exhibitions, or even engage in themed challenges. Such teamwork, particularly when supported by a student leadership team, not only enhances their artistic skills but also strengthens their social bonds.

Ideas for Online Art Activities

Outside of a ‘typical’ day at an online school, here are some engaging online art activities that can help school students socialise:

1. Virtual Art Gallery Tour

Organising or attending a virtual art gallery tour, like the Louvre, can be a great way for students to meet new people while developing art history insights. Platforms like Zoom or Google Meet can host live sessions where students can interact, share their favourite artworks, and provide feedback to one another,

2. Art Clubs and Forums

Creating online art clubs or forums provides a space for students to discuss techniques, share resources, and critique each other’s work. Our school’s Teams channels provides dedicated space for clubs or interest groups to discuss, share ideas, creations and collaborate. Many amazing projects including art auctions, the student-run newspaper, the CGA Press and virtual galleries were founded this way.

3. Art Collaboration Tools and Quizzes

Using collaborative tools like Google Jamboard, Miro, Mentimeter or Kahoot have proven to be lively ways to reflect on their experiences or to jump into a quiz and celebrate the leaderboard. This interactive approach can lead to exciting and unexpected results, with school merch or prized badges among some of the great prizes to build school pride and a sense of belonging.

4. Art-based Competitions like Pictionary

Online Pictionary has proven to be a popular activity for students of all ages, using a Zoom whiteboard or Gartic as a platform to time each round. Students love self-nominating to draw or guess the image and theming these around art, such as the Eiffel Tour, a paint palette or the Louvre museum have been an effective way to drive home a theme.

Tips for Success

To maximise the benefits of online art activities, consider these tips:

• Stay Open-Minded: Encourage students to embrace different styles and techniques, which can lead to a broader understanding of art and artistic expression. 
• Be Supportive: Create a positive environment where constructive feedback is encouraged, helping students grow in their artistic journey.
• Schedule Regular Activities: Consistency helps build relationships. Regular online meet-ups or challenges can keep everyone engaged and connected.

Online art activities offer online high school students a unique opportunity to socialise, express themselves creatively, and build meaningful connections across a diverse group.

When a faculty of world-class staff embrace the digital landscape, students can not only enhance their artistic skills but also foster friendships that may last a lifetime.

So grab your brushes, tablets, or cameras, and start creating together—because the world of art is more vibrant when shared!