The Vancouver Biennale is committed to building a legacy of inspired education by using art as an access point to learning about science, math, technology, social studies, language, creative arts and physical education. Our unique curriculum is not an art class, but instead uses art to arouse a sense of wonder and curiosity in children about the world around them. Our programs are designed to provide inquiry-based experiential opportunities for learning and self-expression that foster creativity and innovation, culturally diverse perspectives, improve creative thinking and problem solving, and encourage teamwork and self-confidence.
The Vancouver Biennale thanks all teachers, students, volunteers, galleries, community centres and school board staffs for sharing the vision of the 2010-2011 BIG IDEAS program in Visual Arts. Participant list: Argyle, Arts Umbrella, Balmoral, Byrne Creek Secondary, Capilano University, Carson Graham, Collingwood, Churchill, David Thompson, King George School, Lord Byng, Magee, Mulgrave, Peter Skene Odgen Secondary, Pierre Elliot Trudeau, Prince of Wales, Rockridge, Sentinel Secondary, Sullivan Height, Tupper, Van Tech, West Vancouver Secondary and Windermere.
2011 BIG IDEAS Visual Arts Exhibitions
(March 8-27) West Vancouver Group Exhibition at Ferry Building Gallery and West Vancouver Museum, (April 8-23) North Vancouver Group Exhibition at CityScape Gallery, (April 16-28) Vancouver Group Exhibition at the Roundhouse Community Centre, Sunset Community Centre and the Vancouver Central Branch Gallery and (April 3-14) Pierre Elliot Trudeau Solo Exhibition at Sunset Community Centre. (September - November) BIG IDEAS Student Exhibition from three school districts at ArtStarts Gallery, Vancouver.
Sharing the BIG IDEAS Experience: Meet the West Vancouver student artists. [View Video] and the North Vancouver student artists [View Video].
2012 BIG IDEAS Public Performances
THe Vancouver Biennale took dance, music, drama and poetry to the streets to celebrate 2012 BC Arts and Culture and National Dance Week. An unprecedented lineup of 28 outdoor BIG IDEAS performances over 8 consecutive days that include 700 student performers and graduates from the 2012 Vancouver Biennale BIG IDEAS Artist-in-Residence program, The Dance Centre, SFU Contemporary Art, A Star Is/Boogaloo Academy, Youth Street Dance Council and Arts Umbrella. [View Video]
The Vancouver Biennle thanks our partners, teachers, artists, students, performers and volunteers for their contribution to the sucess of this event. Participant list: Argyle Secondary, Arts Umbrella, Captain Cook Elementary, Carisbrooke Elementary, Chaffey-Burke Elementary , Churchill Secondary School, Edith Cavell Elementary, Henry Hudson Elementary, Kerrisdale Elementary, Norgate Community School, Queen Alexander Elementary, Simon Fraser University, Charles Tupper Secondary, West Bay Elementary, Windermere Secondary.
BIG IDEAS Teacher Workshops
Find out how you can be part of the Vancouver Biennale BIG IDEAS education program, contact the Vancouver Biennale to schedule an introductory workshop at info@vancouverbiennale.com.
When the Biennale sculptures are approached with open curiosity, a shift in consciousness about our beliefs, values, and interaction with the world around us takes place. Students become in tune with their own potential for creativity, which when nurtured can help young people grow to be visionary thinkers.
Peggy Bochun – District Student Events Coordinator Vancouver
Students gained an understanding of how art can be a powerful vehicle for learning about the world around us and for expressing our own perspectives, beliefs and values. We are thrilled with the Biennale partnership.
Chris Kennedy – Superintendent of Schools West Vancouver
There is nothing like going beyond the walls of the classroom. Moving, thinking, being creative, being mindful and focusing on mental and physical well-being. What a great experience! I've never seen students so happily engaged in learning!
Tiana Blouin – Physical Ed Teacher Delta
Thanks to the opportunity inspired by the Biennale, we were given a wonderful foundation for using art as an access point to teach science. Two years later, our department continues to thrive on the foundation fostered by the Biennale.
Victoria Hughes – Science Department Head Vancouver
