As Proctor's European Art Classroom students concluded their Fall 2024 term abroad, they shared heartfelt reflections on their nine-week immersion in art and French (and European) culture. From hikes up La Tête to artistic breakthroughs in the studio, cultural explorations across France, Spain, and The Netherlands, and the deep bonds formed within their "artist colony," these students discovered new dimensions of themselves while living and creating art in community. Through their words, we experience their evolution as both artists and young adults navigating life abroad while embracing European culture under Dave and Jen's guidance. Read on as Georgia, Annie, Sophie, Nate, Mia and Hazel reflect on this chapter in their Proctor journey and express gratitude to those who made it possible.
Georgia '26
The last day in my home for the past two months put things in perspective for me. We have been on the road and very busy, soaking in culture, art, and good quality time with one another, but this last day truly made me stop and think. As I hiked La Tête for the very last time, it hit me: I probably will never hike this again. Now, that was a scary feeling. I took a step back and processed these two months abroad as I looked over the lush green scene with Mt Ste. Victoire standing proud and tall in the background. Between developing as an artist and a person, feeding my creative side, and not getting stuck in the grind of classes, it has truly been everything I've wanted it to be. Dave always said throughout the term to go home with no regrets and take all the opportunities we are offered. I can proudly say that I have exceeded my expectations in my abilities to go outside my comfort zone and push myself to take away unforgettable experiences.
I am so grateful to have been able to come to France and spend this term with Dave and Jen. They have been my pseudo-parents for the term, teachers, art teachers, and mentors. I want to thank my parents for working so hard to give me these unforgettable opportunities and always encouraging me to adventure and explore.
My last hike happened to be my second to last hike up La Tête. To end the term with a bang, we woke up at 5:15 am to make our last assent. Guided by our phone flashlights, Nate, Mia, Annie, Dave, and I shared those special last moments of the term together at the summit, gazing at the big dipper and Mt. Ste. Victoire.
Annie '26
This past fall term has been one of the best experiences of my life. In just over two months, I was exposed to the food and culture of three different European countries: Spain, France, and The Netherlands. We tried foods such as tapas from Sevilla, escargot from Dijon, and oliebollens from Amsterdam. We explored many amazing museums as well as our beautiful natural surroundings. I made it a personal goal to try to hike La Tête every day, a small but steep hill behind our house. This allowed me to really connect with nature and appreciate my environment. Dave and Jen are much more than average teachers; they become your parents and are two other people in your life who can make you smile and laugh. If Jen and Dave weren't running this program, this trip would not be the same.
Most importantly, I wouldn't be here to experience all this without the love and support of my parents, my friends, and even my brothers. During the application process, I was initially put on the waitlist. I had given up on the idea of Euro. However, with about three weeks left in the Spring term last year, my advisor, Lynne Bartlett, told me I was accepted to the Fall European Art Classroom, and with no hesitation, I said, "OMG LYNNE! YES PLEASE!" If you ever have the opportunity to travel to Europe, especially with Proctor, AND with the ability to see Europe through the eyes of an artist…take it, with no hesitation!
Thank you, family and friends, and Lynne, for giving me that push to explore and the confidence to live abroad for two months.
Sophie '25
Being one of the only seniors and the majority of the group being juniors and not really knowing anyone, I was worried if I would have fun. Well, little did I know I would have a blast. We have done so much with each other. We have built this tight bond between everyone and have become great friends. We also have traveled all over Europe together. This trip has been a good learning experience for me. I went into this program not knowing any art history and not being very good at art. I was able to come out knowing so much history about French artists and where they came from and learning about what was happening during all of the art periods. I am still working on the art part, but I have found some techniques and methods that I really enjoy and have become skilled at. From playing mermaids in the Mediterranean to traveling with the most amazing group, I have enjoyed myself so much and have had the best time. I want to thank my mom and dad for giving me this opportunity to be able to come over here and live my French life. I also want to thank my adviser for helping me out with college stuff and other important things from around the world and in different time zones. So thank you, everyone, for getting me here and helping me out. I also want to thank Dave and Jen for this great experience and wonderful time. I have never laughed so hard then I have here. I'm going to miss it a lot.
Love, Sophie
Nate '25
The reason I chose this picture (below) was that it was my turning point, and I realized that I might actually have the potential to draw something good.
The other picture I would want was the last picture Dave took of me next to Rembrandt's painting that looks gold but there wasn't any gold. Where we saw the night watch. - Not in the album.
This term has been packed full of fun, art, excursions, and history lessons. Every week we have meetings and discussion questions, but the most important one is your "paint, turp, and canvas" of the week. This is where you discuss your favorite thing during the week, your least favorite thing, and what you are looking forward to next week. Throughout the whole term, my paint (favorite thing) every week was the week itself. I think that says a lot about my experience here, and though I was the only boy, I still had a lot of amazing experiences and fun times.
I'd like to thank my parents, grandparents, the girls in this group, and Jen and Dave for making this amazing journey possible and allowing me to have such a unique experience.
Mia '26
I'm proud of myself for taking on this wonderful experience. In these past two months, I've immersed myself in the world of art and been lucky enough to have some amazing artwork right in front of me. I've also had the chance to travel to places I'd only ever dreamed of before. I got to learn about their cultures, especially Aix-en-Provence, which became our home. On top of that, I met seven incredible humans who helped make this experience one-of-a-kind. I'd like to thank Rosanna, Christin, Alicia, Gregor, Megan, and many more who helped make this happen. And Jen and Dave, who became our parents and gave us incredible moments. I can't forget my mother, who does everything she can to help me achieve my goals. European Art Classroom gave us the opportunity to explore our interest in art, explore the world, and build long-lasting relationships while still in school. It's an experience you can not miss out on.
Hazel '26
When applications for off-campus programs came out, I hesitated applying because I wasn't sure if I was ready. But about two days before the deadline, I said, "why not?" and I'm so glad I did. I've visited many amazing places, eaten yummy food, turned 17, and made the best memories. I made some friends too!! Jen and Dave have taught me so much and I want to say thank you for supporting and encouraging me all throughout the term. And a big thank you to my family for giving me this experience of a lifetime! I couldn't have done it without your endless love and support. Aix-en-Provence feels like home and I can't wait for the day when I can come back.
Check out more photos from European Art Classroom on Flickr!
- European Art Classroom
- Off-Campus Program