Art Amplified: The Role of Digital Signage

When I reflect on my school art experience, one memory stands out, even though I'm not naturally artistic (my sister seemed to inherit those genes). It was a pencil drawing inspired by M.C. Escher's "Drawing Hands." I always thought it was 'pretty good' for my standard. Yet, it remained in my art sketchpad, seen only by my teacher, parents when I brought it home, and a couple of friends. Did anyone else appreciate it? Not really. Did that make me feel like my effort was wasted? Perhaps a little.

Schools are filled with talented individuals—academically, creatively, athletically. While celebrating students' achievements is a natural part of school life, how often are thought-provoking and creative pieces from art, design, and textiles showcased for the entire school community to appreciate? It's not just the GCSE and A-Level students who create standout work; all efforts deserve recognition and celebration.

Traditionally, wall displays have been used to showcase student artwork. While wonderful to see, they are time-consuming to set up and maintain. Often, these displays remain static, and staff and students from other year groups and departments only catch a glimpse of what students are learning. A great way to complement these traditional displays is by sharing students' artwork through digital signage. Documenting students' creations and incorporating these into a slideshow or virtual gallery can have a huge impact, filling students with pride and showcasing talent to the wider school community, including visitors and prospective families. This approach also educates everyone about the topics covered and the energy and enthusiasm that went into the finished masterpieces.

Emphasis and spotlights often occur during events like Children’s Art Week, but it would be much more impactful if schools shared these creations digitally all year round. Here are some ideas on how to use digital signage creatively and engagingly to celebrate and showcase student artwork:

1. Virtual Art Galleries

Create a virtual art gallery using digital displays around the school. Feature rotating slideshows of students' artwork, including information about the artists and the techniques they used. Incorporate QR codes next to the artwork that link to videos of the students discussing their pieces or to pages with more detailed information, providing greater insight into the ideas and inspiration behind the artwork.

2. Live Art Demonstrations

Streaming Live Art: Use your screens to stream live art demonstrations by students or guest artists. This can include live painting, drawing, or other creative processes.

Interactive Sessions: Broadcast interactive art sessions where students can follow along with a tutorial shown on the digital signage. ‘Draw with Rob’ is always one of my favourites.

3. Promote Exhibitions

Share schedules of events, workshops, and exhibitions happening locally and nationally. Royal Academy of Arts Young Artists' Summer Show is a great example to get involved in.

4. Educational Content - Art History?

Display short educational snippets about famous artists, art movements, or techniques to provide context and inspiration for your students' own work.

5. Social Media Integration

If you're already sharing great content through the school's social media channels like Instagram, take it further by integrating your social media feeds to display posts of students’ artwork. This can help increase your social media following too. Use a dedicated hashtag for events, such as #ChildrensArtWeek.

By leveraging digital signage in these ways, you can create an immersive, interactive, and celebratory atmosphere around the artwork.

If you’d like to explore more ways to utilise your digital signage to promote art and other departments you can book a time here or book an online demo.