MITCHELL LEMKE
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT — BFA PRINTMAKING
“I am left now with so much at my fingertips. Whether it be connections, friendships, memories, knowledge, interest, or the most invigorating of all: passion. Venice is oozing with that stuff, and now I am too.”
Photo credit: Jesse Sullivan
Pratt in Venice has no doubt left an impact on me that will last a lifetime. There’s something peculiar about a floating city, and something especially so about living in one. There are the daily things that I will hold onto, like the scent of saltwater and fresh food mixing together in my nose. The cicchetti and sounds of boats and seagulls. These things left marks on me, and marks that I will carry with me into my work and studies.
The opportunities brought about by the Pratt in Venice program were insurmountable. Our average outing in my Art History of Venice course with Prof. Joseph Kopta included ogling at some of the most nuanced and historically rich works of Venetian architecture, painting, and sculpture I have ever seen. Having my knowledge of these works—from Barbari to Titian to Veronese and more—enriched by art history professors like Joe and Diana, who have high recognition for their knowledge of their subject matters, is something priceless. My eyes were opened up to how incredibly intricate and interesting the facets of Venetian life and artistic culture were. The program has left me with not only the knowledge of so much of what makes Venice tick, and how superpowers like Venice helped shape an entire continent and culture; it’s an inspirational jackpot. It is hard to not take something with you while being immersed in an experience such as Pratt in Venice—an experience I am forever grateful I decided to embark on.
With that said, perhaps one of the most gratifying aspects of this summer were my experiences with the people in the program alongside me, working tirelessly with them in the studio. Laughing, dancing, pushing each other to be great, and appreciating what were all a part of… Remembering all these moments brings a sweet smile to my face when I need it. I am left now with so much at my fingertips. Whether it be connections, friendships, memories, knowledge, interest, or the most invigorating of all: passion. Venice is oozing with that stuff, and now I am too. Grazie mille, Venezia.
