SUF offers over a dozen courses in Italian history of art taught by internationally renowned scholars. Topics range from Ancient to Modern art, from painting and sculpture to architecture and urbanism. Classes are held on campus and also frequently on site, enabling students to study original works of art and architecture wherever possible, often in their original settings. Class-related field trips include visits to Sicily, Rome, Venice, Pompeii and Carrara, as well as to lesser-known cities and regions in Italy.
Throughout the courses students will address questions such as: How did artists express themselves? How have viewers reacted to these works, both today and in the past? How did patrons use works of art and architecture to convey specific messages?
Our art history courses will help students—whether they are art history majors or taking art history for the first time—to understand and appreciate the cities, monuments, and works of art they will see while living in Italy. Learning about this visual language will enrich the ability of students to analyze works from all periods and places, and will stimulate their own artistic and intellectual creativity.
Sistine Chapel Private Visit
In November 2013, students in the advanced history of art seminar on Michelangelo (HOA 556.2) enjoyed a private visit to the Sistine Chapel together with professor Molly Bourne and our four current Master’s students in Renaissance Art. Joining them was Mary Jo Weinig, herself an alumna of the Florence Graduate Program (MA ’79) and a major supporter of many of SUF’s cultural and outreach programs.