During the 2015 TESOL convention in Toronto we had an idea to begin grouping newsletter submissions by themes and we are very excited that ICIS membership has enthusiastically embraced this initiative. We hope that you will enjoy this first thematic issue that we are dedicating to the role of art in intercultural communication and EAL practice. We chose art as a theme for multiple reasons. Art can nourish us and it can show us complexities of contemporary societies. It is a reflection of our cultural worlds and it is a medium of communication across language differences. Most important, we think that every language teacher is an artist and that art is a teacher itself. Contributions to this issue are a testimony to this vision.

This issue begins with a practice-based article. Rachel Ewing and Karissa Weeden share how they have used performing arts in their Tokyo-based classroom to help students overcome fear of speaking and to motivate them to be more active in the classroom.

Next, Keith Braveheart, a Lakota artist, talks about his art in an interview with Patriann Smith. Keith’s pieces intertwine the realities of contemporary society with traditional Lakota ways of being. In his interview Keith reflects on the role of art in today’s world and how teachers can use art in their work.

Our Member Spotlight features Judy Wong, an educator with more than 30 years of experience, who is passionate about bringing art and intercultural understanding to the EAL classroom. Judy’s work in TESOL is a great example of lifelong commitment to profession and continuous professional development.

Art comes in many forms and opens new channels of communication when words fail. We are thankful to everyone who supported our initiative by contributing their work and we look forward to continuing this format of thematic newsletter issues!

Natalia Balyasnikova is a doctoral student in language and literacy education at the University of British Columbia, in beautiful Vancouver, Canada. Originally from Russia, Natalia moved to Canada in 2013 to pursue her degree in TESL with a focus on intercultural communication. Natalia writes about her life as a graduate student and a newcomer to Canada in her blog: https://balyasnikova.wordpress.com/.