This is a continuation from my last post which will cover my classes. It’s weird, I’m on vacation and still going to school. But honestly, it’s worth it. I’m actually very excited about all of the classes I’m taking. The majority are art history which is fantastic and one will teach me how to survive in Italy. In other words, all necessary. The beginning of my week is the worst because on Monday I have all four of my classes and don’t finish until around five and on Tuesday I have an on-site class which doesn’t end until seven at night. The rest of the week is pretty laid back.
My first class is Italian 101 A. Now languages aren’t really my thing. I don’t know why but I really struggle with them. But Professor Fossa is very understanding and supportive. She takes the time to correct my pronunciation and provide assistance for when I’m really struggling. I thought my four years of Spanish would help me out but it’s just a pain in the neck. I’m an American trying to speak Italian in a Spanish accent. I’m a mess.
The Ancient Art of Rome is great because everything I’m learning about is within walking distance! Who needs a textbook when you can study the actual thing!! Every Wednesday we have an on-site class where we meet outside of the classroom. It’s a little intimidating because we have to rely on ourselves to get there. The first place we went was the Villa Giulia, an Etruscan art museum. I got to see the Apollo of Veii in person! Unfortunately I spent the whole time taking notes and Professor Gadeyne didn’t leave any time for picture taking. Speaking of my professor, he’s an interesting man. He has a strange personality with a dark sense of humor but I like him. He reminds me of one of my high school teachers. The second place we went was the Capitoline Museum, the Forum Boarium, and Largo Argentina to study some architecture.
The class I’m most excited about is Bernini and His World where I get to learn all about Bernini! No kidding. He was a pretty crazy human being but his sculptures are absolutely phenomenal. I don’t even know how it’s possible to carve something so expertly to the point that it seems life-like. The on-site classes happen every Thursday and Professor Pestilli takes the class (there’s only three of us) for a coffee break. Those little breaks are always so relaxing. We went to get some warm milk and brandy once in this cute little cafe (sorry, can’t remember the name). The brandy really hit the spot because it was so cold. I’m from Florida I can’t live in these conditions! Last Thursday we went to the Villa Borghese where I gave a presentation on two of Bernini’s sculptures: Apollo and Daphne and David. I was pretty nervous with so many people watching me and I could have done a lot better but I’m glad I got the opportunity to stand in front of them.
Last is Art Conservation. We started a week late because Professor Persegati was sick. She is absolutely adorable and so excited about this class. And luckily we didn’t suffer a major setback. Our first trip was to the Vatican Museum’s restoration and painting lab. This was one of the coolest things I’ve ever done. I got to see the process of analyzing a work of art and the materials used in its creation. I also got to see how restorers touch up a damaged painting, wooden sculpture, and even leather. My professor took some pictures so when she sends them to me I’ll be sure to share because words can’t describe how amazing it was. This was a once in a life time opportunity that I would have missed had I not taken this course!
On a side note, last weekend I was visited by my lovely family that lives in Vincenza; Uncle David, Aunt Patti, and Gehrig! I am so happy they got to come down and visit me, even if it was only for a little while. We tried to make our way to the Spanish Steps on foot which was not the best idea but we got a lot of exercise! When we finally got to the Steps after being somewhat lost and somewhat in the right direction we headed down this little shopping avenue and they bought me a black leather purse. I really want to pay them back! They also paid for my lunch and dinner and on top of that gave me blankets and a comforter for my cardboard bed and more food. They are so sweet! Although, a lot of the food is microwavable and I lack that appliance. Hmmm…I’ll figure something out. And Gehrig is just the cutest! He kept calling me “Aunt Celeste.” That’s just too precious! But I’m too young to be an Aunt. Anyway, I’m so glad I saw them because I miss them and I plan on seeing a lot more of them.
Well that was a lot and I’m really tired but now we’re basically on the same page. Expect more!