This is my fourth year working with the NYU Steinhardt Studio Art MA in Venice program. We have a fantastic group of students this summer who are busy producing an impressive body of work. One of the things I love about being involved in this program is that we have the flexibility to do things a little differently.
For instance, we teach the studio courses here in Venice using a contemporary atelier model which includes a focus on individualized instruction (rather than formal class sessions). Students are expected to develop a body of work based on their own interests and receive ongoing studio critiques from faculty, visiting artists, critics, etc. throughout the term.
Throughout the summer, we bring in a number of dynamic artists and theorists into the studios to give lectures and do critiques. This ensures that the students receive ongoing and diverse feedback about their work. Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting a very special guest – Patti Smith. Patti was doing a show at Piazza San Marco (Saint Mark’s Square) and we contacted her agent and invited her to visit the NYU studios during her stay. Lucky for us, she agreed to drop by. This turned out to be a fantastic event – Patti shared some stories, read some of her poetry, and sang a few songs. She also spoke frankly and humorously about her relationships with Robert Mapplethorpe and Allen Ginsberg. It was very intimate and inspirational for all involved and clearly an experience the students (and faculty) will remember for a long time.
More photos here.
