Ciao! My name is Jasmine Doctor. I am a senior majoring in animation with a minor in Asian studies from Florence, South Carolina. I serve as a Lloyd International Honors College ambassador and office assistant, and a College of Visual and Performing Arts ambassador. In Spring 2023, I studied abroad at Nagoya University of Foreign Studies (NUFS) in Nagoya, Japan.
In June 2024, I studied abroad again for a faculty-led trip to Florence, Italy. I took two classes: Art History focused on the history of the Medici family, and Drawing focused on practical work for my sketchbook. Drawing took two hours each Monday and Wednesday. I visited different sites such as churches, museums, and gardens, where I would draw whatever captivated me.
My sketches could focus on detail, texture, scale, pattern, shape, etc. I could use any art medium and technique of my choice. Periodically, Professor Barbara Campbell-Thomas would meet with me and provide feedback and advice. This motivated me to push myself.
Immersed in History
My Art History class was on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and it was held in palaces, churches, museums, and chapels. Dr. Heather Holian gave amazing lectures about the Medici family and their impact on the city. This class was usually in two parts, so I would visit two sites in one day. My favorite place was the Pitti palace. The artwork and architecture were so stunning and breathtaking. The frescos on the ceiling were what I admired the most.
Being able to see the old masters’ artwork in person was moving for me as an artist. Honestly, I could stay in the palace all day because there is so much to look at and be inspired by. It inspired me to continue making artwork using traditional mediums when I returned to the United States, since as an animator, most of my work is digital.
Speaking of traditional art mediums, the art stores in Florence are marvelous. They sell tempura paints, pigments, oil, acrylic, and a lot of other unique materials you can’t find in a typical American art store.
When in Italy, do as Italians do
During my free time, I would visit other sites to view the architecture and try the excellent cuisine.
A traditional meal was typically four courses. I was surprised to learn that water is not free with a meal like in the U.S. A bottle was purchased for the entire table to share and often my friends would remind me not to drink it all. In Italy, dinner typically takes place between 8-10 p.m. They eat slow, with a focus on savoring the food.
The “siesta” was new to me because many shops and restaurants are closed between 1-4 p.m. This mid-afternoon break is when many Italians go home, rest, and spend time with family.
A unique tour
Prior to leaving Italy, I had the opportunity to see the unofficial start of the Tour de France. It was exciting to see the cyclists riding so closely together on the hilltops. When I returned home, I asked my parents if they had heard of a famous bicycle race. My Mom asked, “Are you referring to the Tour de France?” I responded, “yes,” and she said, “You would have to be living under a rock to not know what that is.” Well, I guess I have been living under a rock, but now I’ve seen it in-person.
My trip to Florence, Italy was an extremely memorable experience. I retained more from my Art History class because of the opportunity to see the art firsthand and be immersed in it. If you have a chance to go abroad, I strongly recommend you take advantage of it.
Story by Jasmine Doctor, College of Visual and Performing Arts
Photography and videos by Jasmine Doctor, College of Visual and Performing Arts
