Studio Art Practice & Theory
2010 Fall Semester - Academics

Academic Focus

This program is designed for both studio art and non-studio art majors to further develop their artistic expression and skills. Home to both the Uffizi gallery and the Italian Renaissance, students studying in Florence at Santa Reparata will enroll in Italian language, an art history course, a studio arts course, and three additional electives. Students have the opportunity to delve into a variety of mediums including painting, photography, drawing, and printmaking. All studio art courses and electives are taught in English and combine classroom study with onsite lectures and excursions, extending beyond the physical boundaries of the classroom to encompass Florence as the true classroom. Whether you seek to hone your craft or explore and develop skills in multiple areas, SRISA and the city of Florence are the ideal setting for any budding artist.

You will choose six courses for a total of 17-21 credits in the US semester system. Studio art courses will meet for a total of 90 contact hours and are generally worth 3 credits. Non-studio art courses generally meet for a total of 45 contact hours and are worth three credits in the US semester system. All language courses meet for a total of 60 contact hours and are generally worth 4 credits, with the exception of conversational classes which meet for a total of 30 contact hours and are generally worth 2 credits in the US semester system. However, it is up to the student’s home academic advisor to determine how much credit will be awarded. Transcripts for this program are issued by Maryville University. Please see the Academic Institution page for more information about Maryville University.

Program Goals

Though formal and informal learning connected to the host city, people and culture; and by applying appropriate manual, cognitive, affective, behavioral, ethical and intercultural tools; students will develop and articulate:

• discipline-based knowledge, practical skills, and a personal expressive style in studio arts;
• expressive insight into the host culture that draws inspiration from the city's visual heritage and artistic community, while conveying the wider global forces influencing artistic and fashion creativity in the host setting and;
• Italian language and intercultural communication skills.

Schedule Summary

Studio art courses meet for two three-hour sessions per week, either on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday. Most non-studio art courses meet for 1 ½ hour sessions, twice weekly, either on Monday and Wednesday or on Tuesday and Thursday. Some classes may only meet one day a week. At times, classes may be held until 7pm. While classes do not generally meet on Fridays, this day is often dedicated to required excursions or museum and exhibition visits.

Students will have access to the art studios daily while class is not in session. Studios remain open for student work until 11pm at night.

Registration

Course selection will take place prior to your departure for Italy. You are required to submit your course selections to the CEA headquarter office prior to departure for Italy.. While at SRISA, you will enroll in Italian language, an art history course, one required studio arts course, and three electives. You may enroll in more than one studio arts course through your elective options; however, three is the maximum number of studio courses allowed. Italian language courses will only be offered at the advanced level provided there are a minimum number of students who qualify. Otherwise, the beginning and intermediate levels only will be offered during the semester. Although there is an add/drop period upon arrival, your are strongly encouraged to take care when choosing your courses. To aid in the registration process, it is in your best interest to have courses, including alternates, approved by your academic advisor prior to departure.

Students taking studio art courses will have required lab fees and be required to purchase their own supplies and materials. Some electives may have additional fees for required excursions and/or museum entrances etc.

To learn more about course requirements for your particular session as well as information regarding your host institution, you may click on the appropriate tabs above.