Kissenberth Emily, a New Jersey native and alum of Art Program in Florence in 2009, shares these words, charming and enthusiastic with us about your experience summer with Abbey Road. Always fun to hear first hand from students, so thank you for your entry, Em!

"I explain my time in Florence, exciting and informative, but more than I consider the life changing and inspirational. The first time I got off the plane in Italy, I was nervous and confused, I was in a place I've ever been, I felt isolated because I could not communicate, and overwhelmed because I was jet-lagged, tired, and I wanted to hide. But then, Stefano, later learned it was my art history professor, turned the corner, with a huge sign that said: "Abbey Road! Emily, Mica, Eden?" and smile. Suddenly I felt relieved and I'm excited for next month.
The most important aspect of life in Italy was how to live with other five people I've ever met in my life. The six of us around the world, stretching from Brasilia to New York and the small town of Florida to Boston. We were all so different, but united by the fact that we all first time visitors to Italy and we were totally confused about how to start our life for the next month. We stayed up late and playing cards, learned to cook authentic Italian food and messes with our bubbling cooking teacher, William, started laughing and talking on our lives at home, makeup and hair products scattered throughout the apartment, hosted the night of residence at least weekly, inviting everyone to come and place of meeting with us, but more importantly we help each other with our work and sat down and made art together. All shared a simple interest and all helped each other grow as individuals. For me, being surrounded by centuries of art and life with five other artists was the most inspiring to be in Italy.
My class was the main painting, which had in the morning. I've never been so excited to wake up at 7 in my life. We went to our studio and worked until 11:30. Antonio, my painting instructor, was so talented and inspiring, and I think that I have completed some of my best work, while working with him. In addition, there were only 7 other students in my class, so did a lot of time teaching and personal experience of my instructor. In the afternoon I had the history of art with Stefano. He is so intelligent and knows a lot about art in Florence and Rome. I was very grateful that you chose to take art history because as a freshman in college, I am taking art history now, being in Italy and see all the pictures in real life has made me learn a lot more interesting.
Most importantly, be in Florence, with a helpful staff, care, meet new people who are friends of long life has been the best experience in my life so far. Every time I see something that reminds me of my trip, just smile, because all I have are good memories and stories. There's nothing like being in a beautiful country full of ancient artworks that built the framework of misery I want to continue to the rest of my life. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to go to Florence and participate in the Summer Abbey Road Programs. "

Art Journal Workshops With Suzi Blu: Moleskine Journals

Comments are closed