CIS Joins Forces with Leading Art Academy to Advance Art Education

Congratulations on the newly established partnership between the City College of the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts and the Canadian International School of Guangzhou. 

This collaboration brings together two leading institutions to build a dynamic, interdisciplinary innovation platform that empowers education through art and deepens students' engagement with Chinese culture. Ultimately, the partnership aims to elevate students' creative potential and enhance their competitiveness in art-focused university admissions—both in China and around the world.

From Interest to Expertise: Expanding Education Pathways

Leveraging the strong academic resources of the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts (GAFA), experienced GAFA instructors will now join CIS classrooms to teach and guide students. The program follows a clear learning pathway—authentic creation, guided practice, and strong final outcomes—allowing students to develop technical skills and produce highquality work through real studio experiences.

GAFA experts will also co-design and lead traditional culture workshops with the CIS Chinese Department, including sessions on Chinese ink painting and calligraphy. This interdisciplinary approach encourages students to understand cultural context and translate it into thoughtful, original creative work.

He introduced Chinese ink painting to CIS students through a blend of theory and handson practice. Under his guidance, students not only refine their brushwork and artistic judgment but also learn to approach the world through a new lens—deepening cultural understanding and appreciation for diversity.

Holistic Art Pathway Support

For students planning to pursue art-related majors, the CIS–GAFA collaboration provides a comprehensive support system, including:

·Step-by-step portfolio planning

·Targeted guidance on school and major selection

·One-on-One advising and personalized feedback

This helps students build a clear artistic identity and academic narrative, enhancing their competitiveness throughout the university application process.

Remarks from CIEO Leadership CIEO

Dr. Winnie Chen, Chairwoman of the Canadian International Education Organization, highlighted CIS's distinctive curriculum and whole-child education philosophy. She emphasized the importance of building an interdisciplinary "Art-Empowered Education" platform with GAFA, aiming to expand opportunities for students to grow creatively and develop well-rounded skills.

Mr. Wu ZongjianDean of the City College of the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts

Mr. Wu Zongjian shared three key goals for this collaboration:

·To create a training base where art theory and practice intersect deeply

·To build a bridge for meaningful exchange between Eastern and Western art cultures

·To promote shared educational resources and strengthen cooperation in faculty development and curriculum design, enhancing the quality and impact of teaching across both institutions

This strategic partnership represents far more than a pooling of resources—it marks an important step forward in CIS's commitment to whole-person development. Guided by the principles of Academic Excellence and Caring Community, CIS is dedicated to creating clear, sustainable pathways that support each student's long-term growth and academic journey.