I aspired to be a fine artist for many years of my life, never knowing if I’d ever get the opportunity to actually fulfil that vision let alone travel outside my beloved Africa. Italy however had always been a mystery to me.
The land of art, food, culture and beauty. Who would have known that I’d get the chance to experience it for myself? Palazzos, Museums of art, Tuscan views, Operas and historical architecture, some of the most beautiful scenery the world has to offer, that’s what awaits anyone who takes the artist’s leap and travels to Florence, Italy.
As a student in AEF Certificate Program Drawing and Painting, I had the chance to explore the history of both Modern and Renaissance Art, put into practice the techniques learned, and experience the thrill of just being an artist in Italy. I used mindfulness classes to learn more about myself as a person, learned different aspects of art: from how to create Artist Books to Art management, as well as learned Italian as a means of communicating my artistic concepts to the public. Instructed by some of AEF’s incredible professors, I was able to create series of paintings, market them and exhibit them on several occasions. I was able to participate in joined exhibitions at the Galleria Immaginaria, in the heart of Florence, as well as at the Accademia di Belle Arti, home to Michelangelo’s world renowned David statue, as well as at the Palazzo Niccolini, home of the Accademia Europea di Firenze.
Every artist needs a place to call home while they’re away from home. A place where they can immerse themselves in a culture of learning, surrounded by creative minds and inspiring instructors. A place that nurtures the the talents they already have, expands them and leads them to even greater heights. I believe that AEF is that place. From the moment you arrive at the Accademia, you’ll be welcomed with smiles and the very common “Ciao! Come stai?”. For me, that’s the perfect way to start any day away from home.
