Paint, Plate, Perform: A Creative Week in Barcelona

The second week in Barcelona has certainly been a time to remember, as the activities were rooted in Spanish and Catalonian culture. The students were split into four groups and each excursion was a fun artistic outlet. The four activities were: a tapas cooking class, learning how to do their own graffiti, painting ceramics, and a Flamenco dance lesson.

The smiles were contagious at each of the activities, we were so happy that our students were willing to participate, learn, and engage with the activity leaders. This week was jam-packed not only with exciting activities, but also valuable opportunities for our students to learn more about what the culture is like here in Barcelona. Additionally, their Spanish language-skills are quickly improving, by the time they get home, they may not even want to speak English! 

The future culinary students above are diving into Spanish culture head-first by participating in an act called "Sobremesa", which doesn't have a direct English translation, but can be described as: "The time spent lingering at the table after a meal, enjoying conversation." "Sobremesa" occurs after the meal, when people stay for hours talking to their family or friends, it is the epitome of living in the moment.

This is an essential part of understanding and living the authentic Spanish experience. When strolling the beautiful streets of Barcelona (or any city in Spain), you will notice that everyone is sitting outside, with tapas and a beverage. Learning how to cook traditional Spanish tapas is the gateway for students to be able to experience the beauty of "Sobremesa". 

Behind this group of artistic students, you will see the mural they created with the help of a talented local grafitti artist. Graffiti is cultural component that is important to learn about when coming to Barcelona. Artists from all over the world come to Barcelona to have their art displayed on the streets of the city. Street art (or graffiti) is seen all throughout the city of Barcelona, with a wide variety of styles, tags, and genuinely eye-catching art. 

The best part of street art in Barcelona and cities alike is the amount of color it provides for the more dull spaces. The students were beyond excited to add to the vibrant street art of Barcelona. 

Audrey, a student on program said: "I like the graffiti. It was exciting to learn about a different form of expression used a lot in Spain. I really enjoyed the fact that we got to help paint a mural and get original work from a local artist."

Who doesn't love a nice, calm, painting session? Especially when it is painting something you can use, keep, or cherish. This group of imaginative students came up with various clever ideas for how to paint their objects. It was the perfect way to slow down and reflect, a moment of creative calm in a busy week of exploring, learning, and connecting. We can already imagine these pieces sitting on desks or kitchen shelves back home, sparking memories of sun-soaked afternoons and new friendships made here in Barcelona.

Finally, the Flamenco lesson ignited the fiery spirit that the students have inside of them, by having them dance to the beat of the music. It was a great opportunity for the students to let loose, have fun, and both listen and dance to a new kind of music. The rhythm of the footwork, the sharp claps, and the expressive arm movements brought everyone into the moment, channeling the passion and intensity that flamenco is known for. Even those who were nervous at first found themselves smiling, stomping, and clapping in sync by the end. It was more than just a dance class, it was a dive into a centuries-old art form that speaks through movement, music, and emotion. ¡Olé!

Are you a high school student interested in studying abroad for a summer in Spain? Explore CIEE's numerous Spain high school abroad programs across more than one beautiful city and start an application today!