In Year 10 Artistic Expression, we have developed a project on graffiti as an artistic and cultural form of expression, integrating different ATL skills (Approaches to Learning) from the MYP. Through this experience, students developed their research skills by learning about the origins of graffiti in New York City and understanding its role as a means of expressing identity and taking ownership of urban space through symbols, tags and cultural references. Each student then created an individual sketch incorporating meaningful personal and cultural elements. This encouraged self-management and creative thinking skills, as students reflected on their own identity and made independent artistic decisions. In a second phase, students worked in small groups to combine ideas and create a shared composition. This process particularly supported the development of communication and collaboration skills, as they needed to listen to proposals, negotiate decisions, respect different points of view and reach agreements so that every group member felt represented in the final outcome. Finally, the compositions were transferred onto a large format measuring 1.5 x 3 metres, using spray paint for the first time. During this phase, students developed critical thinking and transfer skills, experimenting with a new artistic technique that requires control, practice and constant adaptation. Beyond the final result, the focus was on technical learning, experimentation and valuing the creative process as an integral part of the artistic experience. To carry out the activity, large canvases were installed on the school fences, allowing students to work in a real and meaningful context without making permanent changes to the environment. The experience was highly enriching and motivating, as students not only learnt technical aspects related to graffiti, but also discovered its potential as a tool for expression, communication and the construction of individual and collective identity.
