AUS architecture and design students visit Italy

Nineteen students from various majors from the College of Architecture, Arts and Design (CAAD) embarked on a study tour to Tuscany and Umbria in Italy from June 9-27, along with Brian Dougan, Associate Professor of Architecture.

The students visited various cities including Castiglion Fiorentino, Lucca, Montecchio, Assisi, Firenze, Chiusi, Arezzo, Cortona and Orvieto and came across castles, monasteries, convents, amphitheaters, courtyards, paintings, sculptures and churches during their journey.

According to Uthra Elizabeth Varghese, "The places we went to were beautiful and the people were also warm and friendly. We accomplished a lot in terms of work in such a short period of time. Not only did we see and draw but we also documented the things we did and places we went to in the form of collages and writings. I enjoyed every aspect of the trip and it was an experience that I won't forget."

The study tour was filled with adventure and involved a lot of walking, hiking and using public transport, but more importantly focused on drawing. Aravinda Gamage said,"The study tour was a fantastic experience, where you intimately understand what you see. It was the ultimate prequel to architecture, where the history of sites is explored. This, in turn, gives us a better perception of our surroundings. Moreover, the course helps you understand your place in this world, in relation to the weight of history upon you."