From the Nominator

"At Graded, the IB Visual Arts course culminates in an immensely gratifying final exhibition in which students display their artwork. The capstone event provides students with the opportunity to develop their curatorial skills, reflect upon their growth, and celebrate their creativity, perseverance, and talent. During the exhibition's opening night, students stand beside their work to engage with visitors and present their work.  

São Paulo's high COVID-19 case rate in 2021 rendered it impossible to host an in-person exhibition. Instead, IB Visual Arts students showcased their work in a memorable virtual reality exhibition. IB Visual Arts students worked on developing virtual galleries using Artsteps software. Graded's advancement communications team, in collaboration with IB Visual Arts teacher Amanda York, was entrusted with bringing the entire project to life. Our goal was to make the virtual exhibition feel as personal and intimate to the artists as an in-person event would.  

First, the team conducted "Art Stories" interviews with each student. These videos complemented their work by enabling students to convey their concepts and processes. These interviews, along with a trailer for the official exhibit, were released on Instagram and Facebook. Finally, we created an official 2021 IB Visual Arts Exhibit website and wrote a promotional piece for The Graded Gazette, the school's monthly publication.  

Although COVID thwarted plans for an in-person display, the well-publicized virtual exhibit attracted spectators from all over the world. Additionally, each senior left Graded with a beautiful interactive portfolio and recorded artist's statement."

From the Judges

A unique and creative approach for a virtual visual arts student exhibition. The American School of Sao Paulo faculty, staff, and students demonstrated that art can be experienced virtually, opening opportunities for the student’s works to be experienced worldwide.