June 2, 2011

The end of my semester ran right into an OSU study abroad trip. Upon my return this week, I wanted to compose one final blog in order to share the wonderful experiences I had during the three weeks I spent in Italy. I was very fortunate to attend the Landscape Painting course in Tuscany, Italy, through the OSU college of Arts and Sciences. Prior to this study abroad trip, I could only imagine what experiences lay ahead, but what I learned proved to be far more exciting and enlightening than I ever expected!

The majority of trip was spent at a spectacularly beautiful agricultural estate known as Tenuta di Spannocchia. This ancient historical villa rests upon 1200 acres of glorious Tuscan land – perfect for painting landscapes : ). What sets Spannocchia apart from other estates is its dedication to sustainable efforts. Basically everything from how they heat their water, to the use and maintenance of the livestock and food growing there is done in a sustainable way. The time spent here really was special to all the students, each harboring a different meaning to us all. Possibly since finals had just ended, I believe the peace and serenity present at Spannocchia was even more apparent. Although we painted most of the day each day, it never felt like work, but more a therapeutic way of releasing stress!! Although, not normally a painter, I did learn and grow immensely from the beginning to the end of the program. I welcomed the challenges that I was presented with and really had a great time. Marty Avrett, retired Art professor at OSU, taught the course, as well as countless other life lessons and important things needed to know while in Italy. He and his wife Martha really treated us with kindness and by the end of the trip we had all grown to become a big family! In addition to painting, in any free time we had during a weekday, many of us would explore the estate. This could include several-mile long hikes to abandoned monasteries, castles, or natural springs! We ate so much each afternoon and evening, we had to find some form of exercise, haha. That brings me to the meals, wow! Each evening was a truly wonderful extensive meal, always served with the wine made at Spannocchia. Conversation over dinner about the day’s painting and adventures was always enjoyed. As if spending time at this wonderous place wasn’t enough, we had the weekends free for traveling.

My travels throughout the trip consisted of 2 days in Florence, a day in Pisa, a day in Lucca, and a day in Colle Val D’Elsa! Siena was the nearest major city to Spannocchia, so although we did spend a day there, that was also the stop for most bus/ train connections during the trip. Each city of course possessed its own brilliance and beauty! I was so fortunate to travel and see so many magnificent places, especially historical paintings and sculptures. Regardless of where we traveled, we were always happy to return “home” to Spannocchia! It was very nice to have a “home-base” during the 3 weeks.

On the last Thursday of the trip, OSU held our art show for all those at Spannocchia and neighbors. It was more of a celebration of our journey through the program, but it really was remarkable to see how much artwork was created in such a short time. The Lemonia, our studio, had tables and walls covered with paintings and illustrations.

I can’t reiterate enough what an amazing experience I had during this program and how fortunate I feel to have had the opportunity to attend. Although I anticipated I would learn about culture and traveling, what I gained even more were the benefits of being challenged within a task, being an integral part of a group, and developing further a character and perspective of life. I hope everyone has the chance for a similar experience!

Here are just a few pictures from the trip!

Another year at Oklahoma State comes has come to a close. The swift passing of time continues to amaze me, but I’ve still got some time ahead of me at this great university. I can hardly wait to continue my journey, which at OSU is full of opportunity and good times! Composing this blog has helped me further realize and express my passion for serving others, a passion which will only continue to grow. Thank you to all who have followed along with my experiences at OSU this year.
As always, Go Pokes!!