Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Classes

What I am looking forward to most about going to Florence are the classes that I will be taking. I still do not know my class schedule yet and will not find out until I arrive in Florence. The classes I requested though are listed below with a little description of each one.

Italian Language: This course is dedicated to developing basic skills in Italian -- conversational, listening, reading, and writing. The stress is on the ability to communicate well in simple conversations in a range of real-life situations. A working knowledge of the basic structure and grammar of Italian is achieved. Through language, students underscore their wider comprehension of Italian culture.

Sketching Florence: This course uses the monuments, streets, parks, and collections of Florence as a stimulus to learn basic drawing skills. Fundamentals covered include the basic media (graphite, charcoal, pen and ink), elementary linear perspective, shading and volume, rendering of natural forms and buildings. Directly and indirectly the course creates an awareness of Tuscan artistic traditions. 

Painting Techniques: This foundation course involves practice with materials and methods, and formal values and devices (color, composition, linear perspective, pattern).  In a variety of assignments and in-studio activities (single and group), students learn the basics of watercolor, acrylic and oil media. Projects are diversified, from large scenic canvases to small acrylic transfers and mixed-media ensembles. 

Photographing Florence: This course trains students to make images with a camera. It covers the basics of technique (lighting, exposure, movement, development, etc.) and visual language (composition, color, aesthetics, communication). At the same time students are compelled to perceive the physical reality and living expression of human values that is Florence. Photographing Florence/Rome is a possibility to visit the cities and gain expertise in using a reflex, automatic, and digital camera. 

History of 20th Century Fashion: This course explores the historical development of fashion in the Twentieth Century. It examines both high and popular fashion, primarily in Europe, placing fashion products and concepts in the contexts of society, culture, and economics. Students will learn about the relationship of fashion to urban centers such as Paris, London, and Milan. Visits are arranged to boutiques, couturiers, and museums for further learning. 

To see what other classes are offered through Accademia Italiana Florence, click here!

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Arcadia University

Arcadia University College of Global Studies is based out of Glenside, Pennsylvania.  The University is divided into three colleges: The College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, The College of Business, Health and Sciences, and The College of Global Studies.  There are over 100 programs offered in 16 countries around the world.  To find out more about Arcadia University click here.  
  
Accademia Italiana Florence is the program I will be attending. It ranks as one of Europe's premier institutes for the study of studio art, fashion design, graphic design, interior and industrial design, and textile design. Additionally, the institution offers a variety of enriching courses in Italian language, history, and culture.  Click here to learn more about Accademia Italiana Florence.  
 
News: Arcadia University Ranks #1

Friday, December 17, 2010

Why Florence?

You may be wondering why I chose to study abroad in Florence.  I decided on Florence because of the wide variety of art classes it has to offer.  The one class that really caught my eye was Photographing Florence.  I have always loved taking pictures and thought this would be something I would really enjoy.  The other classes I liked were sketching & painting classes.  So that is one of the reasons why I chose Florence.  Another reason why I chose Florence was becuase of the Italian culture and food.  I love how Florence is surrounded by art and history.  I also love Italian food!  Florence is centrally located in Italy and Italy is centrally located in Europe which will make it nice for traveling to other destinations.  I hope you enjoy my blog & continue with me on my journey!