Proctor’s European Art Classroom off-campus program is now three weeks into their eight week study abroad trimester in Aix-en-Provence, France. As eight students live alongside co-directors David and Jen Fleming, they not only immerse themselves in the creation of art, but the creation of community. Read more from Sophia ‘24 and Kael ‘24 in this first blog update from the term. Learn more about European Art Classroom HERE.
Sophia ‘24
We made it! Stepping outside the Marseille airport, the sun was shining and the mountains were beautiful, the drive to the house was stunning, we stopped for chocolate croissants, and as soon as we arrived everyone was in awe. Jen and Dave showed us our rooms, and then we did the ‘polar plunge’, TRES FROID. Waking up the first morning to the view of Mt. St.Victoire was something I will never forget.
The rest of our first week entailed visiting Arles and sketching the ancient Roman ruins, spending lots of time exploring Aix, and taking our first English class with Jen in our Lit Cafe.
On Thursday we picked up lunch at Paul’s and painted with Dave at La Couronne a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea. Week number one has been packed with amazing views, amusing dinners, and lots of art.
The first week in Aix was wonderful and I can’t wait to spend many more! I enjoyed running to Vauvenargues, making dinner with Henry, and art history class. Everyone is looking forward to our upcoming trip to Paris, and spending the next few days in Aix!
Kael ‘24
Life in Aix en Provence has been delightful this week—Monday and Thursday were school days. We went into town and had Lit class at our favorite Cafe, "Le Festival”. We are all getting comfortable with the city and finding our favorite spots. On Tuesday, the group visited Paul Cezannes's studio to see where he created beautiful paintings. On Wednesday, we stayed home and learned how to paint an olive branch, which was tedious. On Friday, we went on an excursion and tasted different types of local olive oil. We repainted the olive branch on Saturday for a grade and went to town for dinner. It is Sunday, and the group is extremely excited to go to Paris.
Check out more photos from European Art Classroom on Flickr!
- European Art Classroom
- Off-Campus Program