Giving Tuesday 2023

We are thrilled to announce that the Department will be facilitating a study-abroad opportunity for students during the summer of 2024. Professor Joe Hedges and advisor Alma Rocha will be leading students on a captivating 17-day journey across Italy.

Street view of the cathedral of Florence.
Photo credit: Heidi Kadan, Unsplash

Italy has always been a particularly desired destination for art enthusiasts and those who wish to immerse themselves in a culture that consistently celebrates the arts. It is a country that boasts an extraordinary abundance of artistic and cultural treasures, ranging from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces by renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. This excursion will grant our students access to a wealth of museums and cultural events. Experiencing diverse cultures can be profoundly transformative, enabling each of us to break free from a singular perspective. We are genuinely excited to facilitate this transformative experience for our students.

As faculty sponsor Joe Hedges stated, “Studying abroad in Italy will be an incredible opportunity for students. We will delve into the rich artistic heritage of Rome and Florence through immersive exploration, hands-on drawing practice and academic inquiry. We will look at the interplay of shadows and light in the works of iconic Italian artists, strengthening our visual and intellectual observational skills. And of course, we will drink cappuccinos in piazzas. Viva Italia!”

Detail of the hand of Michelangelo's David.
Photo credit: Taylor Smith, Unsplash

Alma Rocha, Art Advisor and sponsor states, “The opportunity to provide students to experience, in person, what they had only been able to access in textbooks, has incalculable value. For the Art Department as a whole, this program shows the commitment to expanding viewpoints and open a world that students may not have even thought possible to explore.”

As a department, we are committed to providing life-changing opportunities, including the chance to study abroad. Our Italy trip is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with scholarships available to assist students in financial need. However, we can’t achieve this goal on our own. We invite you to visit our website to explore how you can support art students who aspire to study in Italy. Your support can make a significant difference in their educational journey.