Malena Ramsey

BA — Art History

Pratt in Venice was an experience like no other. In such a short amount of time, I gained some of my closest friends that I believe will stick with me long after my time at Pratt.

My particular favorite part about this program was learning about the materiality aspect behind the works of art we know so well. Through the act of visiting and seeing these works in person, we were able to foster a deeper understanding of creators and artists of that time. Diana Gisolfi’s Materials and Techniques course got us behind the scenes and allowed us time with these works that the public normally is not able to get. The classes nourished a curiosity in the material science behind art as well as the history and context around it. 

The many amazing professors in this program made me excited to get up and work everyday. Joseph Kopta is greatly informed on all things Venice and was able to answer any questions I had about the city and its history. Though I am not a studio art student, Fay Ku and Michael Brennan were gracious enough to allow me to sit in on their classes whenever I was able. This allowed me to explore the interdisciplinary and how it relates to the historical. It was very interesting to be allowed to see the lives of current artists working in Venice as we studied the lives of past Venetian artists.

This program was an overall enriching experience that I believe helped me discover more about who I am and who I will be.