Drawing in the Capital of the Arts
Summer '25 Applications Open
The Take-Aways
Real-world Experience
Create artworks using ancient and contemporary drawing techniques, discover your unique style, and come home with a creative portfolio showing off your new skills.
Credentials For Your Future
Topics for your college essays, experience to inform your future career, and a portfolio to document your increasing artistic literacy.
Life Skills And New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and diverse friendships from across the U.S.
45
Hours Of Expert Instruction
3
`Weeks Pursuing Your Passion
1
Life-changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Florence, where artists from all corners of the world gather to witness breathtaking art.
Italy is home to an impressive 60% of the world’s most important works of art, and half of them are in Florence! Tuscany’s capital is not just any destination—it's a dreamland for an artist. As “the cradle of the Renaissance,” Florence ushered European civilization through the Middle Ages and into its rebirth. The transition is still visible today in its incredible architecture, landmarks, and piazzas and throughout Florence’s hundreds of museums, galleries, and churches.
With something for every artist, it's no surprise that Florence is one of the world’s most enchanting cities. The streets pulse with the sights and sounds of street performers, bustling markets, and lively cafés. Contemporary exhibitions at museums and galleries showcase a diverse range of artistic styles while masterpieces like Michelangelo's David and Botticelli's Birth of Venus await at the Galleria dell'Accademia and Galleria degli Uffizi. In Florence, you’ll be inspired to create as you trace the evolution of art from medieval times to how we see it today.
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Explore the creations of Leonardo da Vinci, Michaelangelo, and Boticelli at the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s first modern museums, dating back to 1560.
- With a local artist, grasp the ancient technique of paper marbling.
- Discover Florentine street art splashed across lesser known quarters and hidden corners of the city.
- Step into a time machine of creativity at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. Admire an unmatched collection of medieval and early Renaissance art.
- Discover machines and mechanisms designed by Leonardo da Vinci and try them out yourself at the interactive Leonardo da Vinci Museum!
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Where Has The Time Gone?
It’s hard to believe 2 weeks have already passed, and we’re spending our last week in Florence. This last week included activities such as a theatre and improv workshops, a... keep reading
Second week of drawings, gelatos, friendship, smiles and many moments to keep in the heart.
Second week in Florence! We have already experienced so many good times and there is still a lot to come. To begin with, it must be said that we are... keep reading
Our Adventure Begins…An Introduction to Gavinana, Florence and Italian Culture
I can't even begin to describe the incredible journey that 20 brave high school students have embarked on this summer. Leaving the comfort of their homes, they've traveled all the... keep reading
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For Scholarship Eligibility Requirements, Please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More Questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
---|---|---|---|---|
Program Summer Session I 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,250 | |
Program Summer Session II 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,250 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Tina Marisa Rocchio
Center Director
Tina grew up between the mountains of Vermont and the coastline of Rhode Island and has spent her adult life between Tuscany and Rome. Mastering Italian in high school, she...