Assignment 1

My name is Veronica Houghton. I hail from Waldwick, New Jersey and I am the youngest of six children. I have three passions in life: art, soccer, and experiencing life. I have just finished my freshman year at High Point University with a double major of Exercise Science and Studio Art. At school, when I’m not painting/drawing, I am actively involved in clubs: Rotaract PR Director, International Club Secretary, Amnesty International, and Habitat for Humanity. 

When first approached with the option of studying abroad for art, my first response was YES! It is an opportunity of a lifetime to experience art from a different part of the world. I’ve grown up admiring  great artists and studying their brush strokes and uses of color. At home, my weekends are often spent at the Metropolitan Museum of Art viewing the latest exhibit of master painters in history. Being just inches away from famous artwork in exhilarating to me, a soulful search, and an eye opener to say the least. So, to have the opportunity to travel and see the paintings that I’ve been limited to seeing only by pictures...well, its an honor thats truly exiting!

In Europe I will be taking the Art 388 course. The course will be covering the Early and High Italian Renaissance artists, their artwork, and much more. My travel interests are not limited. I want to see, taste, explore, and truly experience everything that comes my way. I will not take a second for granted for I am blessed to be able to go on this trip. I believe that when appreciated, looked up with a good eye, and understood, art can be life changing. Perhaps that is what I want most out of this trip, a new outlook. Life is unexpected and so I’m going open-minded and hoping for the best for this trip. 

One of the many pieces of works that I’m exited to view is the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. Her famous smile has a different effect on each viewer, and I’m eager to meet my observation of her in all the painting’s majesty and beauty. The Italian portrait has been studied in my mind many times from Leonardo’s breakthrough with chiaroscuro and the landscaping, to the positing of her hand’s, to her facial expression and lack of facial hair. It will be thrilling to see the artwork up close and observe in person what da Vinci’s himself created!