arteling’s method
Language learning
through art

Language + Art

“I’ve improved my French skills as well as my capacity to see and observe”
— French-with-Art Participant

What are the advantages of bringing together language learning and art?

Combining verbal and visual processing facilitates language acquisition

Engaging with art viewing provides a visual and perceptual support that helps you expand and solidify your vocabulary while also practicing your speaking and listening skills.

  • Information presented both verbally and visually is better remembered

  • Art provides rich visual anchors that help language learners associate new vocabulary, structures, or expressions with concrete imagery

  • Images stimulate episodic memory, making words and phrases easier to recall later than isolated text

  • Language learners remember more effectively when words are tied to meaningful visual experiences rather than abstract lists

Adding context supports recall

Viewing at artworks encourages language use in authentic, communicative contexts rather than decontextualized exercises, which support foreign language recall.

Language + art generates an active experience

Traditional language learning often relies heavily on memorization and textbook exercises, which can leave learners disengaged or hesitant to speak. Using art looking as a starting point transforms language learning into an active, meaningful experience by connecting words to images, emotions, and personal interpretation. This approach supports memory, builds confidence, and encourages real communication while also fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Enhanced emotional engagement

Emotional engagement through art viewing increases motivation and depth of processing, leading to stronger language acquisition results.

What else am I gaining by viewing art while learning French or English?

Our language and art engagement methods also provide you with tools to expand your art appreciation and perceptual-observational skills.

How does it work?

Our programs are centered around small groups that meet live online or at local museums. Limited group sizes allow for all to participate. Our groups are professional-led with guided questions that help participants make use of new vocabulary while exploring art in novel and interactive ways.

Do I need an art background?

An art background is welcome but not necessary at all. Our journeys, sessions and workshops are designed for groups both experienced and new to art.

What kind of art do you show?

We show a diverse range of works from figurative to abstract and old masters to modern legends. While there is a strong emphasis on art from the target languages, we also show a diversity of art from other countries and cultures around the world, demonstrating the global importance of art.

French with Art sessions have opened a whole new world for me. I always knew I “enjoyed” art, but time spent engaging with Anne and other like-minded people has not only improved my French language skills, but my capacity to learn about and truly appreciate art. I cannot wait to learn and explore more!
— French-with-art Participant
If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.
— Nelson Mandela
A new language is a new life
— Persian Proverb

What you’ll experience

Through guided encounters with artworks from around the world, you will:

  • Practice speaking and listening in your target language in conversation and discussion based on looking at art

  • Engage with art viewing to increase vocabulary and enhance storytelling, nuance, and fluency

  • Analyze and interpret masterpieces, deepening observation and cross-cultural understanding

  • Connect with like-minded language and art-lovers in thoughtful and stimulating sessions

outcomes

A different language is a different vision of life
— Federico Fellini
  • Increased language fluency
    Our small session and workshops sizes support you in practicing both your speaking and listening skills.

  • Augmented language skills
    Through our guided discussions, you increase your vocabulary, speaking accuracy and listening comprehension. Vocabulary lists are provided for ease and preparation.

  • Boosted language confidence
    As you practice your French or English in our small group settings, you increase your confidence as a foreign language speaker.

  • Heightened observational and perceptual skills
    In addition, our professional-led events and courses guide your looking in order to help you also hone your perceptual and observational know-how.

  • Increased knowledge of art history and art interpretation
    Your learn about the world’s great art as our sessions provide art historical background and context for each artwork viewed.

  • Meet other foreign language lovers and art fans to share in an exploration and discussion of your target language and the world’s great art treasures

unlock
your language
potential

French Programs
English Programs