Innovate Today | Sissel: Connecting Global Art Education with Diverse Creativity

Art is not only a process of creation but also a way to explore the world and express oneself. At CIS, we are dedicated to nurturing students’ creativity and artistic thinking, encouraging them to find inspiration within diverse cultures. Today, let’s take a closer look at CIS Middle School Art Teacher, Sissel Tan, and learn how she integrates her personal artistic achievements and rich international experience into her teaching, inspiring students to discover and shape their unique worldview through art.

"I believe every child who loves art has a free spirit that should not be confined. My goal is to inspire their creativity and help them find a sense of accomplishment and joy through the practice of art and design." — Sissel

1. Art Exploration in a Multicultural Context

Sissel Tan's achievements and exploration in the field of art can be traced back to her studies at the University of the Arts London. She is not only proficient in multiple fields such as fashion design, illustration, and visual arts, but also integrates elements of European history, literature, and mysticism into her creative work. These unique themes are presented through intricate artistic forms.

Through her research and creation based on these deep cultural backgrounds, her works are not merely visual representations but profound responses to history and culture. Her artistic portfolio spans diverse forms, including fashion design, jewelry making, illustration, photography zines, and prop design. Each piece reflects her intellectual depth and artistic pursuit.

Her portfolio includes various artistic forms such as fashion design, jewelry making, illustration, photography zines, and prop design, showcasing her profound understanding of art and diverse explorations.

Sissel Tan's Artwork Introduction

2. Cultivating Students' Aesthetic Appreciation and Social Responsibility

In Sissel’s classroom, art is no longer a closed creative activity, but a practice closely connected to society. She not only encourages students to view the world through an artistic lens but also leads them out of the classroom through hands-on projects to explore the social value of art.

She actively participated in the CIS rural beautification project, allowing students to hone their skills in a real creative environment and experience the impact of art on the social environment.

Through these practices, Sissel hopes students realize that the value of art goes far beyond the canvas, galleries, or museums. Art has the power to improve environments, influence others, and promote aesthetic progress in society.

She also leads student teams on in-depth visits to art galleries, where they analyze and discuss contemporary artworks, cultivating a deep understanding of artistic styles and strengthening their critical thinking skills.

3. Personalized Guidance and Interdisciplinary Art Exploration

Sissel firmly believes that every student has unique artistic talent and creativity. In her teaching, she focuses on personalized guidance, tailoring learning plans based on each student’s interests and strengths. She not only emphasizes the development of artistic techniques but also places great importance on inspiring deep thinking about art, encouraging students to constantly reflect and push their boundaries during the creative process.

4. Teaching Method Combining Practice and Theory

Teacher Sissel understands that the true charm of art lies in its practicality. She allows students to experience the entire process of art creation through exhibition visits, social projects, and portfolio development.

She encourages students to express themselves by showcasing their work and to improve their artistic appreciation skills through critique and discussion, continuously refining their creative techniques. Her teaching approach not only focuses on imparting artistic techniques but also emphasizes the deeper values of art and its social impact.

Student Work

G9 Maria

G9 Cecilia

 5.Classroom Features

• Personalized Guidance: In-depth understanding of each student's interests and potential, tailoring learning plans to inspire creativity.
• Interdisciplinary Art Exploration: Encouraging students to combine art with subjects such as literature, history, and technology, expanding the boundaries of artistic creation.
• Practice Combined with Theory: Through participation in exhibitions, social projects, and portfolio development, students cultivate practical skills and gain a comprehensive understanding of the value and meaning of art.

6.A Global Perspective on Art Education

As a member of CIS, Sissel Tan is not only a teacher who imparts artistic knowledge but also a guide for students on their journey into the global art world.

She hopes that every student can find a way to express themselves in the art classroom, experience the unique charm of art through creation, and bring this creativity to the global stage. She not only leads students to explore the limitless possibilities of art but also helps them find their own life path, assisting them in advancing toward the world’s top art schools.

CIS Art Facilities

CIS Art Classroom

CIS Creative Design Academy (CCDA) Classroom