Submitted by Emma Pantaleo on the 2020 winter session study abroad program in Italy sponsored by the Department of English…
I fell in love with Renaissance art back in high school, when I took an art history class. We studied many different arts, but the ones that always stood out to me were the sculptures done during the Renaissance by artists such as Michelangelo. When I first came to UD, I had a chance to take another art history class that focused on Italian Renaissance art. This class peaked my interest even further. I always thought I would eventually find my way to Italy, but I never imagined I would have the opportunity to come for three weeks, studying abroad with other students. Physically standing in front of these incredible sculptures is a feeling that is so surreal. Knowing the years of hard work that were put into each piece is astonishing. The details of the muscles and the folds of the clothes are what really impresses me the most. Seeing the pictures I’ve been looking at for years, coming to life right before my eyes, gives me a feeling of deep satisfaction and I am so glad to say that I have had such a special experience.