Picturing another culture: Developing language proficiency, empathy, and visual literacy through art

Abstract

Integrating art (paintings, sculptures, photography, and other types of images) into second language (L2) instruction, can have a positive effect on language acquisition and developing intercultural understanding. As the instructor provides visual scaffolding, learners at all proficiency levels have the opportunity to engage more deeply with L2 course materials. Not only can students learn to interpret imagery and create their own effective combinations of visuals and texts, they also develop some familiarity with seminal artwork from the target culture. This article outlines how spiraling art through a language curriculum can aid vocabulary retention, illustrate poetic language, and raise awareness of diversity and inclusion. As a result, learners investigate and interact with the products, practices, and perspectives of the L2 culture while simultaneously developing visual analysis skills - the latter essential in an age in which both authentic and digitally manipulated imagery dominate the media and social discourse.Accepted manuscrip