About Tuscany: A Creative Journey Summer 2008
Program Directors:
Cynthia Caci ~ Asst Director for Academic Services, Digital Arts & Experimental Media
Curt Labitzke ~ Associate Professor, Studio Art Division, School of Art
Dates of Instruction: August 25 to September 19, 2008
Over the centuries artists, writers, composers, philosophers and others have journeyed to and throughout Italy in order to draw on the history, art, and mythology of the cultures and locations they visited as a backdrop to their own travels, observations and creative works.
For four exciting weeks students will retrace the steps of a number of creative individuals to develop an understanding of the impact travel to Italy had on their work by encountering and immersing themselves in selected locations in Tuscany. Along with visiting some of the important hill towns, archeological sites, significant gardens and cultural hubs in central Italy, we will be exploring important cities in the area that can include: Florence, the birth place of the renaissance, Pisa, Lucca and other exciting locations.
This hands-on creative experience is designed for anyone interested in exploring a variety of inspiring settings, developing a greater understanding of the history of Italy, and in documenting their travels through a diversity of media. In-country journaling will provide the field notes to guide a workup of a final travel journal that will take on an artistic format. Through demonstrations and presentations, students will learn to use a variety of creative methods to record their travels and express their ideas through digital media, drawing, watercolor, book making and collage. On-site lectures will provide an art historical context to enhance participants’ understanding of their own work.
Applicants should be energetic and adventurous students interested in developing skills as observers, listeners, writers, and visual artists. They should be ready for an ambitious travel schedule and be prepared to learn the best practice of respect for the people and environments they encounter. Credit to be awarded: ART 497 Study Abroad-Studio Individual Projects 5 credits or or CHID 471 Europe Study Abroad (I&S) . Participants should check with their advisors to determine how these credits can count towards departmental requirements.
No formal artistic experience or Italian language proficiency is required. In the interests of building a diverse travel team, all majors, including pre-majors are encouraged to apply.
Student costs: $2,995 Program Fee
$200 IPE Fee
Additional costs include: Round trip air/travel to Florence, most meals, personal spending money, personal art supplies and insurance.
