“Those with tearful eyes” is a poetic way to describe artists – sensitive souls who are easily moved and deeply compassionate. It is also the evocative title of a literature exhibition project organized by students of class 6Liverpool.
The exhibition aims to explore the sources of artistic inspiration within the Grade 6 Literature program. Through their research, students discovered that empathy is the driving force behind an artist’s creation. In the face of human circumstances, artists channel their reflections, concerns, and emotions into their work, engaging in dialogue with life through creativity. Unlike those who produce material wealth or lead social movements, artists carry the mission of giving voice to Truth, Goodness, and Beauty in life.
Artistic inspiration is inseparable from the artist – a concept that encompasses writers, poets, painters, sculptors, musicians, singers, playwrights, and actors. Step by step, students grappled with questions such as: “How does inspiration come to an artist?” and “What do they do with that inspiration?” In doing so, they learned to appreciate the character and spirit of artists through every piece of literature and every work of art.
According to Ms. Trần Thị Ngọc Ánh, Vietnamese Literature teacher, the project is designed around the educational pillars of “Global Citizenship” and “Digital Citizenship.” It allows students the freedom to select, research, and engage with the works of renowned Vietnamese authors such as Nam Cao, Tô Hoài, and Kim Lân. Beyond simply learning about the writers and their works, students also interpreted the concerns and reflections embedded within the literature. From their discoveries, they created original reports in diverse, creative formats – posters, presentations, videos – supported by technology. This process helped them deepen their understanding of the value of literature, step into the shoes of characters, and empathize with the hearts of the artists.
More than a showcase of creative, personalized student work, the exhibition also served as an open space for discussion, exchange of perspectives, and sharing of book recommendations. Thảo Vi (6Liverpool) reflected:“The most exciting thing about studying Literature at Dewey is that our learning is not confined to the textbook. Exploring on our own helps us discover fascinating things and sparks a greater passion and love for literature.”
