Elizabeth Ables travels to Italy thanks to the Wesleyan Summer Sabbatical
Elizabeth Ables traveled to Italy this summer thanks to the Wesleyan Summer Sabbatical.
“I was thrilled and honored to receive a sabbatical from Wesleyan to explore the art and culture in Italy. I narrowed my itinerary to five cities and explored the museums, basilicas, ancient ruins, gardens, monuments, and cuisine throughout. My family was able to join me on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure which made it even more special,” smiles Ables.
Ables kicked off the adventure in Rome, beginning with a tour of the Vatican.
“The art and sculptures throughout the Vatican Museums demonstrate how interwoven the church and world history are. The Sistine Chapel stands out as a highlight, and the intricate lapis lazuli mosaic was stunning in its brilliance and detail,” remembers Ables.
Ables explored the technique by creating her own small mosaic at an art class.
Next, she toured the 2,000-year-old Roman Colosseum and Forum where she stood in awe of its remarkable craftsmanship.
Ables kicked off the adventure in Rome, beginning with a tour of the Vatican.
“The art and sculptures throughout the Vatican Museums demonstrate how interwoven the church and world history are. The Sistine Chapel stands out as a highlight, and the intricate lapis lazuli mosaic was stunning in its brilliance and detail,” remembers Ables.
Ables explored the technique by creating her own small mosaic at an art class.
Next, she toured the 2,000-year-old Roman Colosseum and Forum where she stood in awe of its remarkable craftsmanship.
“I worked with a local artist to explore watercolor painting in the Villa Borghese Botanical Gardens. Time seemed to stand still while the trees were rustling in the breeze and the multi-tiered water fountain trickled. What a magical opportunity to paint and connect with an Italian artist,” smiles Ables.
Her adventure migrated south to Sorrento and the Amalfi coast. She enjoyed a boat ride around Capri, a chairlift up to Ana Capri, and the crowded streets of the market area.
Ables continued her adventure driving up to Tuscany and the Monteriggioni area. She explored the historic town of Sienna, known for its medieval brick buildings and the fan-shaped central square. The Duomo of Siena features an octagonal pulpit and an intricate marble mosaic floor.
“It is striking for its black and white façade while inside lies magnificent artwork by Bernini, Michelangelo, and other famous Italian Renaissance artists,” reflects Ables.
Just up the road, Florence was the next destination. This diverse city along the river shines for its architecture and museums featuring Renaissance art.
The adventure concluded by visiting “The Floating City,” Venice.
“A boat tour of a few outer islands took me to Murano- the island known for its glass artists, to watch a glass-blowing demonstration. Italy has so much to offer – spectacular cities, ancient ruins, art museums, architecture, beaches, culture, and delicious food. Art is such an integral part of Italian culture,” shares Ables.
The Wesleyan Summer Sabbatical Grant encourages faculty to pursue a lifetime of learning. Grant recipients may apply their funds to study, volunteer work, Christian missions, research, or other scholarly activities. Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing your experience! Be sure to learn about Ari Young’s experience and Myriam Liverance’s experience.
The Wesleyan Summer Sabbatical Grant encourages faculty to pursue a lifetime of learning. Grant recipients may apply their funds to study, volunteer work, Christian missions, research, or other scholarly activities. Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing your experience! Be sure to learn about Ari Young’s experience and Myriam Liverance’s experience.
