Today, group enjoyed a relaxing day spent mostly at the Student Center. We split into two groups and went back to Rick's art studio for a chance at redemption in creating a monotype. As each of us had previously done, we created images by applying paint, newspapers, and numerous other objects to a square of plastic and pressing them onto a damp sheet of paper to create a reverse image. Some planned the piece far in advance and attempted to strategically approach the piece; others of us mistook our randomly assembled abstract pieces for actual art. Either way, we enjoyed another creative day in the studio and broke out of our non-artistic comfort zones.
Back at the Center, we spent the day researching famous sites in Rome for Friday's expedition. Because we will only be spending one day in the city, time is of the essence and it will be important for us to be familiar with the sites to visit if we hope to get the most out of the trip. For example, these bloggers researched the Trevi Fountain and the Roman Pantheon. The fountain was built in 1629 in the Baroque era, and legend has it that if a visitor throws a coin in the fountain, he will surely return one day to Rome. The Pantheon, originally constructed in 31 BC, and destroyed, rebuilt, and remodeled dozens of times since, is rated number two on the list of places to see in Rome. It is famous for its revolutionary architecture and impressive stature in the city.
Our final task for the day was to create a "life map" to think about ways to ensure our future success. We sat down one-on-one with leaders from the trip and discussed what we hoped to accomplish by the end of our college careers and in our professional lives, and they helped us with tips on how to get there. It was a rewarding experience, and most of us found it to be well worth the effort.
Once these tasks were completed, today was a nice day to relax, hang out, and catch up on lost sleep. We will be up early tomorrow for our second trip to Florence, so I'm sure everyone will be in bed right on time!
This post has been brought to you by the Conner Fear and Justin Vogl Institute of Higher Learning.
Remember the daytrip to Rome is just to make you ache to return. You will see the highlights. When you are overlooking Caesar's Forum, right behind you is the Mamertine Prison, where Peter & Paul were imprisoned before their execution. It also kept some of Rome's most important foes. No entrance fee but they do ask for a donation. It is a very moving place and takes only a short time to visit. So try if you can.
ReplyDeleteAnd keep writing great notes!
Tom