Visual Arts and Drama have always had a unique way of connecting people across schools, cultures, and countries. Over the coming days, we hope this festival is about more than just final pieces or performances. It is an opportunity for our student-artists and actors to create with purpose, represent their schools with pride, and build friendships that extend well beyond the final curtain and gallery walk.

To our visiting schools, thank you for making the journey to join us. We wish all schools a creative, inspiring, and memorable festival. Welcome to AISM, and welcome to the home of the Buffalos!

Mark Hoffman

This gathering brings to life one of AISM’s core values, Celebrate Humanity, as we come together to honor the stories, talents, and perspectives that each person brings to our community.

Through Visual Arts and Drama, we explore what it means to be human. We express our identities, share our experiences, and imagine life through the eyes of others. This festival invites us to celebrate both the diversity that makes our communities vibrant and the shared humanity that connects us across cultures and borders. As you create and collaborate, I encourage you to be curious, take creative risks, and discover how another person’s perspective can inspire your own.

We hope your time at AISM brings new friendships, fresh ideas, and inspiring moments of discovery that stay with you long after the festival ends. Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to make this experience possible, and to every student for sharing your creativity and your voice. Welcome to Mozambique and welcome to the Buffalo Herd.

Russ Menard