Visual and Performing Arts
Creativity. Expression. Collaboration.
At Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA), the Visual and Performing Arts Department nurtures creativity, self-expression, and confidence across all grade levels.Through projects, bilingual instruction, and hands-on studio practice, students discover the joy of creating, performing, and sharing art that reflects both Costa Rican culture and global perspectives.
All Visual and Performing Arts courses are taught in Spanish, ensuring students connect artistic vocabulary and expression through a dual-language lens.
🖌️ Program Overview
|
Area |
Grade Levels |
Highlights |
|---|---|---|
|
Music |
Toddler – G. 7 |
Foundational rhythm, singing, and ensemble work that strengthen coordination, focus, and teamwork. |
|
Visual Arts |
Toddler – G. 10 |
Exploration of color, texture, and design using diverse media. |
|
Advanced Visual Arts |
G. 11–12 |
Studio elective emphasizing independent work, portfolio creation, and conceptual development. |
Students participate in annual community showcases including:
- Costa Rican Independence Day Celebration
- Holiday of the Arts Show
- CRIA Talent Show (Spring)
- International Day Celebration
- Student-Led Yearbook Production
- SGA-Sponsored Middle School Dance
- After School Activities (ASA) in the Arts
🎨 Primary Visual Arts
In the Primary Program, art instruction focuses on motor skill development, imagination, and exploration.
Students learn to cut, paste, mix primary colors, and express emotions through visual storytelling — building a joyful foundation for lifelong creativity.
🧑🎨 Secondary Visual Arts
In Secondary, the curriculum expands into technique, art history, and creative expression.Each semester explores a new medium — drawing, painting, ceramics, or digital/film production — encouraging students to refine their artistic identity.
Drawing courses develop mastery of:
- Value, proportion, and perspective
- Negative and positive space
- Gesture and figure drawing
Painting courses emphasize:
- Color theory and mixing
- Composition and texture
- Brushstroke control and visual depth
Students connect each artistic skill with Costa Rican culture, world art movements, and 21st-century design thinking.
🎭 Performing Arts
Performing Arts at CRIA encourages students to develop confidence, collaboration, and stage presence.
Opportunities include:
- Talent Show & Christmas Show performances
- Independence Day and International Day celebrations
- Pirate Pride Assemblies & House System events
- Integrated performance lessons across grade levels
Through music, drama, and movement, students gain skills that translate beyond the stage — teamwork, leadership, and creative problem-solving.
🎓 Fine Arts & Graduation Requirements
To graduate, CRIA students must complete 1 Fine Arts credit.
Fine Arts courses combine academic rigor and artistic exploration, helping students see connections between creativity, culture, and critical thinking.
Visual Arts (Toddler to grade 10)
Students explore elements of art — color, form, line, shape, texture, value — and principles of design such as balance, contrast, and unity.
Projects incorporate drawing, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, and textiles.
Upper-level students research art movements, analyze works, and produce original portfolios.
Music (Toddler to Grade 7)
Students strengthen 21st-century skills through rhythm, notation, and ensemble collaboration.
Music instruction enhances creativity, discipline, and innovation, fostering appreciation for global musical traditions.
🌟 Why CRIA Arts Matter
- Fully bilingual arts instruction (Spanish & English environments)
- Integration of Costa Rican and international cultural themes
- Student-led performances and exhibitions
- Experienced art and music educators
- Annual showcases that build confidence and community
The arts at CRIA are more than subjects — they are a celebration of identity, imagination, and intercultural understanding.