Academies in Mombasa and Maputo hold online classes on observational drawing

During September and October, the Aga Khan Academy Mombasa and the Aga Khan Academy Maputo have been hosting joint online classes to teach Year 10 students observational drawing. The classes, which are being led by Art teachers Antoinette Blaine from AKA Mombasa and Sumeya Taquidir from AKA Maputo, not only enhance the students' art skills, but help boost their artistic confidence as well. 

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The lessons were based on Betty Edwards' book 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain', which offers instructional exercises for individuals to improve their drawing. During the virtual sessions, students undertook various short drawing exercises by means of observation, which is said to develop the qualities of perception and understanding of whatever is drawn.

  

Speaking of the experience, Antoinette said: "Although virtual learning has posed some challenges, it has also presented interesting and positive opportunities. One of these is the possibility of collaborating with other classes and teachers across time zones and distance. It is interesting for us as teachers and also for the students to meet a different teacher for a few lessons."

Sumeya also said this new era of teaching has invited various opportunities of teamwork, while ensuring the continuity of creativty.  

"It’s all about working together," Sumeya said. "I have been planning some lessons with Ms. Antoinette and she participated in the Zoom class with me to help facilitate some drawing activities which have been successful. With all of the students online, the extra help has been welcomed. It was interesting to see the continuity of promoting creativity even though being online. I see this as an opportunity for students to embrace new ideas by interacting with teachers from other academies and use technology as a tool to not only communicate, but to also create art."

 

With the Year 10s preparing for their Middle Years Programme e-portfolio unit in November, additional sessions will take place across both schools during this month.