SAS Students Exhibit at Art021
For the second consecutive year, Shanghai American School students showcased their talent at Art021, one of China’s most prestigious contemporary art fairs. SAS was the only international school represented among professional artists, sharing exhibition space with globally recognized names and SAS Artist in Residence, Kool Koor.
“This is the second year we’ve collaborated with Red Earth,” said high school art teacher Ivy Wong. “Art021 has traditionally been reserved for professional artists, so being invited back this year was a huge honor. The theme was Senses, developed in partnership with Orbis, an organization supporting people with visual impairments. We wanted to raise awareness that seeing art is a privilege and that art can also bring joy in many other ways.”
Out of dozens of submissions, a panel of teachers, students, and parents selected twelve standout pieces for display. Students also managed nearly every part of the process, from booth design to docent duties. Like last year, student artworks were also available for purchase, with proceeds encouraged to support Orbis, allowing our students’ creativity to give back in a tangible way.
For junior Mia T., exhibiting her ceramic piece was a career-defining moment. “Having my artwork displayed at Art021 was a tremendous honor,” she said. “It meant my audience expanded beyond my teachers and classmates to the public. Seeing visitors appreciate my work was incredibly motivating.”
Fellow junior Hanning Y. explored self-reflection in her work, a series of distorted self-portraits painted on silver spoons. “The piece explores the inaccurate nature of introspection, especially from a perspective of privilege,” she explained. “I’m very grateful that SAS has a space in this exhibition.”
With their work displayed alongside world-renowned artists and offered for sale to support a good cause, SAS students showed that artistic talent and compassion make a powerful combination. Their presence at Art021 demonstrates remarkable skill, creativity, and a commitment to using art as a force for good.
