As part of the interdisciplinary project “80 Years Since World War II: Art in Times of War”, the auditorium of Colegio Concepción transformed into a stage of ideas, analysis, and critical reflection. Students from all classes involved in the project gathered for a public speaking session inspired by the TED Talk format, where they presented their findings, interpretations, and personal reflections on some of the most complex historical, cultural, and artistic dimensions of the Second World War, entirely in English.
This milestone event brought together history, literature, art, and language in a shared academic space that celebrated not only knowledge but also communication, collaboration, and creativity, key 21st-century skills that are at the heart of our school’s educational vision and our ongoing commitment to innovation.
The session was led by students from the Advanced English Literature class, who guided the audience through a series of thought-provoking presentations. Antonia González explored the representation of war in literature and the emotional power of storytelling, while Rocío Oyarzúa analysed the use of propaganda and its impact on society during times of conflict. Mariana González focused on the fate of stolen masterpieces and the cultural losses caused by Nazi looting, Benjamin Sáez examined the liberation of Auschwitz and the closing chapters of the war, and Mia Kreca explored art portraying women in war times; together these talks created a powerful narrative that connected historical facts with ethical questions, artistic expression, and human stories.
Beyond the historical content, the activity also invited students to reflect on a deeper question: What is the role of cultural heritage in rebuilding societies after conflict? By addressing these issues, students not only demonstrated their understanding of the past but also developed critical thinking skills and strengthened their ability to express complex ideas clearly and confidently in a second language.
The public speaking session was much more than a series of speeches, it was a shared learning experience that showcased the intellectual curiosity, creativity, and communicative competence of our students. It also marked a key moment in the progress of the Art in Times of War project, which continues to connect disciplines and perspectives.
