By: Kenny Shim and Kelli Cody, M’KIS Visual and Performing Arts

The halls of M’KIS buzzed with energy from November 18 to 22 as the school celebrated its most successful Arts Week yet. This annual event brought together students, staff, and professional artists in a whirlwind of creativity, exploration, and artistic achievement. With every corner of the school alive with workshops, performances, and artistic discoveries, Arts Week 2024 proved to be an unforgettable showcase of talent and imagination!

Kicking Off with a Show-Stopping Assembly 

The Arts Week Assembly on Wednesday, November 20, set the tone for the week’s excitement. Hosted by the dynamic duo Isaac and Emerson, the assembly dazzled the audience with performances and exhibits in dance, drama, music, and visual arts. A special sneak peek of a song from the much-anticipated Aladdin Jr. production added an extra spark of excitement, leaving the crowd eager for more.

Immersive Workshops: Creativity in Action

Arts Week wasn’t just about watching; it was about doing, and students embraced every opportunity to get hands-on with the arts:

Capturing Moments with Thomas Starlit
Middle school students explored the fascinating world of portrait photography under the expert guidance of Danish photographer Thomas Starlit. From mastering techniques to experimenting with an 1830s field camera, the session was a masterclass in creativity, blending history with modern artistry.

Dancing Through Cultures 
High school dance students were transported into the world of traditional movement with Ms. Amirah Redza. The workshop expanded their horizons and infused their performances with a deeper cultural understanding, proving that dance truly is a universal language.

Painting Beyond the Canvas
Grade 12 artists unlocked new dimensions in painting as M’KIS parent and artist Kika Goldstein introduced them to the enchanting world of cold wax encaustics. Combining oil paints with beeswax, students created textured, matte masterpieces that will stand as proud highlights in their process portfolios.

Spinning Creativity on the Potter's Wheel
With clay flying and hands shaping, M’KIS parent and potter Sam Dwyer guided students in mastering the potter’s wheel. From wedging clay to forming elegant vessels, the workshop was a thrilling dive into this ancient yet timeless craft.

The heART of Storytelling 
Acclaimed artist Taufik Abdullah captivated high school students with stories of his global artistic journey. Sharing the evolution of his work and his signature anatomical heart motif, he inspired students to connect personal experiences with their artistic creations.

Experimentation with Jalaini Abu Hassan 
Renowned Malaysian artist Jalaini Abu Hassan pushed Grade 11 students to explore unconventional materials like bitumen and charcoal. His workshop emphasized the power of experimentation, challenging students to think outside the box and embrace their unique artistic identities.

Doodling Dreams with Sarah Salim
Local artist Sarah Salim brought pure joy to Grade 6 students as she shared her love of doodling. Encouraging playful creativity, the session proved that even the simplest lines can create incredible works of art.

A Week to Remember

Arts Week 2024 was more than an event; it was a celebration of what makes M’KIS extraordinary: its vibrant community, its boundless creativity, and its commitment to excellence in the arts. This year’s program ignited passion, inspired confidence, and set a new benchmark for artistic achievement.

Here’s to the artists, performers, and creators of M’KIS—your talent and imagination made this week nothing short of spectacular!