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SRISA - Santa Reparata International School of Art

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Introduction to Art: Seeing Like an Artist

Course Info

Heather Schatz

Liberal Arts & Sciences

Summer A 2026

Art History

3

ARTH 2801

TBA

None

Step beyond the lecture hall and into Florence as the classroom. In this course students will walk the same streets as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, look closely at art onsite, and explore iconic landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia (home of the David), and the Duomo (Florence Cathedral) with Brunelleschi’s Dome. 

This course centers on the students’ perspective, whether or not they have prior art experience. Through hands-on interactions with the city students will develop critical observation skills through close looking, field trips, and the technique of sketching as a way to activate memory. They will build a personal journal that reflects an evolving experience of Florence and understanding of art.

Taught by internationally recognized artist and educator Heather Schatz, this immersive summer course lets students engage directly with art, culture, and history. The skills developed, including visual literacy and creative thinking, translate across disciplines and support careers in design, computer science, education, and beyond.

Instructors