Finally… Test week has almost come upon us, which will mean loads of stress, studying, tears and just little sleep. However, it is also a sign that the school year has come to an end. “Time has passed so rapidly” is all I can think of when I reflect this school year. Only one summer holiday away from 5th grade, only two summer holidays away from my final exams…

It was an amazing year, with challenging, amusing and innovative faculty aspects (or more appropriately: issues!). Whilst our music and arts classes had made way for more hours of maths L, English J and Spanish (no remarks ;)), we did not have to be too disappointed of our lack of artistic subjects. Salvation was upon us: Arts & Culture.

Though my first impression on this subject was very optimistic, my second opinion was a bit apathetic. What had changed? I went from very content and eager to learn more about culture, to a person who saw a subject that only included writing reports and doing presentations, instead of enjoying the cultural aspect (which of course is the whole idea behind CKV).

Nevertheless, I have come to the conclusion that I underestimated this year’s Arts & Culture classes. Every time we had a cultural activity, most students were not really keen on going. This made it tough to look through the “tedious” interpretation, and start focussing on forming my own opinion without any prejudice.

One of the best examples of this took place not that long ago: “Het Gelders Orkest”. Most pupils were not interested in visiting an orchestra. They thought they would be performing the ‘old, dull, classical’ songs over and over again. With loads of prejudgement, we drove to Arnhem, quite certain of what this experience would be like. However, the whole performance was build up for teenagers our age, which made it so much fun to listen to. I personally think that a lot of students have misinterpreted the idea of an orchestra, and that our visit to “Het Gelders Orkest” has made a difference in many of our minds. That is what Arts & Culture can do too!

I sincerely believe this theory can be applied to many of our cultural activities. Introdans, Toneelgroep Oostpool… All examples of shows we were ridiculing at the first glance. Of course I might not speak for the entire group when I state that I essentially liked all of our cultural activities, but I do regard that various students have changed their mind in terms of culture.

Understandably I enjoyed all cultural activities I chose to visit myself. The ASK theatre was an obvious choice to write a report about, since I adore to perform in these musicals, and I could passionately write about my experiences.

“Museo Dalí” was another obvious choice, since I had already decided to visit a museum for my CA’s, but I could not find the time to truly attend an exhibition. Our Spanish exchange-visit to “Museo Dalí” came right in time!

The other Arts & Culture experiences, for instance the ‘Fluxus’ and the ‘Cabaret’ projects, were a nice addition to my new view on culture.

Thanks for an innovative year. I hope next year will be as open-minding.