As I continue my time abroad in Florence, I’ve gained a completely different and unique perspective on learning in an international setting. This semester, I’ve immersed myself in coursework that includes Italian language class, Renaissance Art History, Sculpture, and Oil Painting. Having the chance to interact with different course material than what I’m used to back at Pitt has been an amazing experience. My courses have challenged me to form new and diverse perspectives on life abroad, focus on the deeper meaning behind renowned works of art, and gain a new appreciation for patience in work. After completing my courses and time abroad in Florence, I’m sure that the skills I learn in the classroom and throughout the city will translate well to my future professional environment.
One class that’s been especially immersive in Italian art and culture is my Renaissance Art History class. During this class, we spend time visiting the various museums and important historical landmarks full of famous works and learning about crucial developments leading up to the Renaissance. As I learn about these works in person, I gain a new appreciation for paintings and sculptures that I’ve only seen in textbooks and online. Through the class, I’ve also learned the necessary tools to fully understand and interpret a work of art past the obvious composition. Being physically present in Florence allows me to see the scale, texture, color, and history behind these works that advanced some of the most important political and religious movements in history. Further, my oil painting and sculpture classes have changed the way I experience art, giving me a deeper respect for the time, patience, and intention behind each piece. Working directly with materials, like clay in sculpture and Italian oil paint in painting, has given me a new appreciation for the time, discipline, and precision necessary to create art. After creating art in my classes, going to see famous sculptures and paintings that were at the forefront of the Renaissance movement right here in Florence is infinitely more meaningful. As I continue to travel, I’ll take this newfound appreciation for art, history, and culture to form new and informed perspectives on the cultures I interact with.
Overall, my experience in Florence has not only expanded my academic knowledge and appreciation for art, but also my personal growth and development. As I continue my time in Florence, I’m excited to learn new skills and gain new perspectives that will further my personal and professional growth.
