Becoming an accomplished artist is a lifelong pursuit.  When done with passion, an important part of that process is a time for renewal and new experiences. ‘Learning’ vacations are ways in which to broaden one’s perspective and inspire one’s creativity. The School of Visual Arts (in New York City) continues its Summer Arts Abroad Program to provide these experiences. Cultures, environments and living history inspire an artist’s work.  And student artists are not the only people to take advantage of these programs; art patrons from all walks of life join these classes as the best possible way in which to ‘see (and learn about) the world.’

Where better to study art history than in Greece, the birthplace of Western civilization.  One need only look at the architecture of our nation’s capitol to realize the depth with which that country’s art and architecture still influence us today.

There are few journeys as evocative and stimulating as traveling to Greece with an experienced and knowledgeable guide whose deep love for that country brings its history alive. Immerse yourself in the development of Greek art and architecture. While learning its myths, you will make connections to and understand more clearly Greece’s contribution to world literature, painting and sculpture, and its profound influence on Western culture.

This vacation/course begins on May 26th with a most unique orientation into Athens amazing new subway system, a subway system which the imaginative Greeks have turned into “a Museum Underground.”  The following day you will find yourself at the Archaeological Museum of Athens – one of the great museums of the world.  Soon you will experience the indescribable beauty of Delphi – home of the ancient oracle and the most sacred site of the ancient world for 1000 years – and you will feel WHY this site is so magical. Your next visit is Olympia, the Temple of Zeus and the site of the ancient (original) Olympic Games. In a visit to Tyrins and Mycenae, you will experience first-hand the home of Agamemnon, the ancient Greek leader who launched 1000 ships in order to return Helen from Troy and the magnificence of the walls of the Lion Gate – still standing over 3000 years later.

Contemporary Gallery visits are included in the town of Nafplion along with visits to the healing sanctuary of Epidaurus.  It is in Epidaurus where you will see a theater created by the Classical Greeks with acoustics so perfect that the theater is still in use today. You will visit Corinth, ancient Eleusis, the port of Piraeus and the extraordinary islands of Mykonos and Delos – home of classical Greek treasure AND some of Greece’s greatest shopping even today.

This tour visits the most legendary sites of Greece, affording you the opportunity to see art treasures that have inspired the Western World for millennia.  In addition, you may earn college credits while you travel. Greek legends come alive as you visit each site and learn about the culture and the people who created them. Unlike so many tours, this journey is designed for artists and for people inspired by art with ample time at each site for exploration, sketching and photography. The course is both intensive study and joyous vacation combined.

Greece’s incomparable history, its myths and the development of Greek Art and Architecture will be discussed at the historical sites and in the museums. This has been a life-changing course for hundreds of artists, and it has been led by the same teacher – Josh Garrick – for 15 years.  His love of all things Greek brings the Art, Mythology and History of this country alive for all who join this ‘wandering educator’ in this most historical land. For further information, please visit http://artsabroad.sva.edu/ or call 407 304 8106.

Josh Garrick is the Florida Arts Editor for Wandering Educators.