Simone Testa

Course Taught at the Institute
Florence: The Story of the City

Credentials
Royal Holloway University of London, Ph.D.

University of Edinburgh, MSc

University of Bologna, BA

Relevant Projects/Publications

Graphic Novel: Project creator and writer of the texts and co-author of Introduction of Vita di Niccolò Machiavelli cittadino fiorentino (Bologna: Minerva edizioni, forthcoming in February 2019).

Monograph: Italian Academies and their Networks (1525-1700). From Local to Global, in Italian and Italian American Studies series, ed. by Stanislao Pugliese (New York and Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan, 2015), 304pp.

Critical Edition: Scipione di Castro e il suo trattato politico. Testo critico e traduzione inglese inedita del Seicento, in Cinquecento series (Manziana [Rome]: Vecchiarelli, 2012), 203pp.

Reviews

Machiavelli. Enciclopedia machiavelliana, 3 vols, ed. by Gennaro Sasso e Giorgio Inglese (Rome: Istituto dell’enciclopedia, 2014), in Modern Language Review, 112 (2017), pp. 156-59

Gli Incogniti e l’Europa, ed. Davide Conrieri (Bologna: I libri di Emil, 2011), in Modern Language Review, 108 (2013), pp. 311-12

Storie inglesi. L’Inghilterra vista dall’Italia tra storia e romanzo. Con l’edizione del Cappuccino Scozzese di Giovan Battista Rinuccini (1644) e del Cromuele di Girolamo Graziani (1671), ed. Clizia Carminati and Stefano Villani (Pisa, Edizioni della Normale, 2011), in Modern Language Review, 107 (2012), pp. 1271-72

The first translations of Machiavelli’s ‘Prince’. From the sixteenth to the first half of the nineteenth Century, ed. Roberto De Pol (Amsterdam–New York: Rodopi, 2010); Alessandra Petrina, Machiavelli in the British Isles: two early modern translations of ‘The Prince’ (Farnham: Ashgate, 2009), in Modern Language Review, 107 (2012), pp. 634-36

Guido Ruggiero, Machiavelli in Love. Sex, Self, and Society in the Italian Renaissance (The Johns Hopkins University Press, 2007), in Italian Studies, 65, 3 (2010).

Teaching Philosophy

I try to convey the idea that to speak about the past is a way of speaking about the present, and also that “history is a foreign country”. I also aim to make students aware how much their experience in Florence is part of an ancient tradition, to which they bring new life and emphasis by looking at the past with the eyes of their generation.

Most Rewarding Moment

I love when students participate in the class with questions and doubts, and when they realize the direct link between the past and the present.

Favorite Quote

“Who dares to teach must never cease to learn” (John Cotton Dana)

Erika Bianchi

Courses taught at the Institute

Ancient Rome: Civilization and Legacy
Sport History and Culture

Credentials

Ph.D. in Ancient History, University of Florence, 2004

Relevant Projects / Publications

Ancora su Eschine III, 252, “Dike” 5, 2002, 83-94;
Nota sulla morte degli oratori nel 322 a. C., “Prometheus” 30 (2), 2004, 129-38;
The Law of Eukrates: a “democratic trick?”, “Historia Antigua” 23, 2005, 313-330;
Plutarch and the Age of Demosthenes, “Ploutarchos”, forthcoming.

Teaching Philosophy

A historian (and her students!) cannot escape from dates and names, but I like to give my class something more than this. When I lecture, I try to focus on what students will remember of my class in ten years’ time… they will retain the basic concepts that have shaped also their society, life and culture. The true point of history is that of acting as a mirror for both our past and our future; I try both to help the students discovering that mirror they so often are unaware of, and to be helped by them to look at it from new perspectives.

Most Rewarding Moments

1) Having my ideas challenged by intelligent questions and/or objections
2) Leaning out of the Capitoinel terrace and watching my students enthusiastically recognizing the monuments and buildings of ancient Rome’s landscape

Favorite Quote

If you think you can or think you can’t, you are probably right (Henry Ford).

Clive Woollard

Courses taught at the Institute

Family Business in Italy
The Business of Sustainable Food Supply Chains in Italy (SFESP)

Credentials

MBA (Marketing) Aston Business School, Birmingham UK
BSc in Polymer Technology, IPTME, Loughborough University, UK

Relevant Projects / Publications

Organisational Culture and the Classroom; Annuario Dirigenti Scuola 2013, LA SCUOLA SpA, Brescia, Italy.

Evaluation of Child Centered Education Through Cultural Analysis, OECD/CERI Innovative Learning Environments (2013), Paris, France.

Development of a new BSc(hons) programme – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and the maintenance of all undergraduate programmes, in consultation with the University of Buckingham, external examiners and the QAA (The Quality Assurance Association for Higher Education in the UK).

Managing Director of Supplyco Ltd.  A UK based business, supplying chemicals for European manufacturing industries.

Teaching Philosophy

As a lecturer in business I love the application of major business principles to the local context of Florence. This is where we see a rich fusion of historical and dynamic business types vying for a future.  My lecture style is one of using cases to develop theoretical and practical business principles.

Most Rewarding Moments

Taking students to a leather tannery in Empoli, which is ran by one of my ex-students and following the supply chain through to Gucci, Prada and Ferragamo.

Favorite Quote

Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none. (William Shakespeare).

Carolina Megale

Courses Taught at the Institute

Archaeology and Art of Ancient Italy
Field Archaeology

Credentials

Ph.D. in “History and Civilization of the Ancient World”, University of Florence – 2009
1st Class Degree (MA) in Roman Archaeology, University of Florence -2005
1st Class Degree (MA) in Methodology of Archaeological Research, University of Pisa – 2001

Relevant Projects

– 2014 Instructor of the course “Methodology of Archaeological research: from the dig to the history”, School of Specialization in Archaeology University of Florence.
– 2013 Project Scientific Coordinator excavation Area Piazza Garibaldi, Fiesole (Florence).
– 2012 Teaching assistant Greek and Roman Archaeology, University of Florence.
– 2011 Associate with the “Studio Archeologico Associato Hera di Giuditta Grandinetti and Carolina Megale”.
– 2011 President of Cultural Association Past in Progress.

Recent publications

C. MEGALE, A. CAMILLI, E. SORGE (eds.), Archeologia in cantiere. Nuove scoperte dagli scavi di Baratti, Pisa 2014.
C. MEGALE, F. GHIZZANI MARCÌA (ed.), Materiali per Populonia 8, Pisa 2009.
C. MEGALE (ed.), Fare l’archeologo. Per passione e per mestiere, Livorno 2009.

Latest Articles

C. MEGALE, Corneli in Val di Cornia, in S. BRUNI, C. CIANFERONI (eds.), Δόσις δ’oλίγη τε φίλη τε. Studi per Antonella Romualdi, Firenze 2014.
C. MEGALE, S. GENOVESI, Economy and production in Late Republican Settlement of Poggio del Molino, Populonia, in L. BOMBARDIERI, A. D’AGOSTINO, G. GUARDUCCI, V. ORSI, S. VALENTINI (a cura di), Identity and Connectivity: Proceedings of the 16th Symposium on Mediterranean Archaeology, Florence, Italy, 1–3 March 2012, BAR International Series 2581 (II), 2013, pp. 901-908.
G. DE TOMMASO, S. GENOVESI, C. MEGALE, Piombino (Li). Necropoli di San Cerbone-Casone: relazione preliminare della campagna 2012, «Notiziario della Soprintendenza per i Beni Archeologici della Toscana», 8/2012, pp. 475-477.
C. MEGALE, S. GENOVESI, M. BUENO, Nuovi mosaici dalle terme della Villa di Poggio del Molino (Populonia–LI), Actes of XVIII Colloquio AISCOM Associazione Italiana per lo Studio e la Conservazione del Mosaico (Cremona 2012), pp. 517-526.

Teaching Philosophy

I believe in hands-on experience, I love books but I prefer soil.
My approach to teaching is based fundamentally on interest and enjoyment. I find archaeology a fascinating subject both to learn and to teach and I think that bringing this enthusiasm into the classroom and passing it on to students is the best way to teach effectively. However, enthusiasm alone is not enough. Successful teaching combines this with appropriate knowledge about the subject and the use of a variety of educational techniques from old fashioned lecturing to the use of multimedia, films, web resources, but first of all visits to the museums, field trips and practical experience on archaeological site.
Not every student I teach will major in archaeology or anthropology, but all students can benefit from an archaeological perspective. The archaeological approach is a way of thinking and my aim is to teach to my students to get the right questions and have the method to find the right answers.

Most Rewarding Moments

When students after an hard day of digging are proud and happy of what they have done, because they understood the meaning of this work.

Gloria Marco Munuera

Courses Taught at the Institute

Introduction to Photography: Portfolio of Florence
Introduction to Digital Photography

Credentials

Ph.D. in Fine Arts (Photography), RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
Master of Photography at the Libera Accademia di Belle Arti, Florence, Italy
B.F.A/M.A. Fine Arts at the Polytechnic University “San Carlos”, Valencia, Spain
B.A. Classical Music, Royal Conservatory of Music, Albacete, Spain

Relevant Awards/Exhibitions

-2017 “PhotoPatagonia” International Festival of Film and Alternative Photographic Processes, Complejo Cultural Santa Cruz, Rio Gallegos, Argentina (catalogue).
-2016 “Plus” Sala Sempere, Museo de la Universidad de Alicante (MUA), Alicante, Spain (catalogue).
-2016 “Electrical Bodies” Las Cigarreras, Photoalicante International Photography Festival, Alicante, Spain.
-2015 Honourable Mention in Fine Arts Portfolio Photography, MIFA Moscow International Foto Awards, Moscow, Russia
-2015 “The Fifth Annual Exposure Photography Award” Louvre, Paris, France
-2015 “The Emerging Image” University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
-2014 3rd: prize Category Fine Art Special Effects, MIFA Moscow International Foto Awards, Moscow, Russia.
-2013 Finalist in the London International Creative Competition 2013, London, United Kingdom
-2013 “Meeting in Florence 2013” International Art Exhibition at Dante’s House Gallery, Società delle Belle Arti, Florence, Italy.
-2013 “Small” International Photo Exhibition at Genkan Gallery, Matsudo-shi, Chiba, Japan.
-2012 “4 por 4 más 1” La Lisa Arte Contemporáneo Gallery, Albacete, Spain.

Teaching Philosophy

In teaching, I feel it is important to provide a solid background to basic photographic techniques through practice before moving on to any digital techniques. The students must feel that they have mastered the control of their imagery. My teaching methods stress the importance of conceptual thinking before digital application assistance. I continue with my professional work not only to update skills, but also to instill a passion for photography and to feed inspiration of this creative practice to my students.

Most Rewarding Moments

Final photography student shows. To see students enjoying the work they have produced and sharing it with enthusiasm and pride to colleagues and visitors.

Favorite Quote

“When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence.” (Ansel Adams)

Carlo Achilli

Laurea, University of Rome
Master, University of Rome
Licensed Architect

Courses Taught at the Institute

Advanced Topical Design Studio: Urban

Architecture in Context: City, Spaces and Urban Design

Credentials

Safety Coordinator License in Project Design and Management, University of Rome, ‘La Sapienza’, School of Architecture and Urban Planning – 2006 Master II |V| in “Pianificazione, Conservazione e Gestione dei Centri Storici e dei Sistemi Paesistico-Ambientali” at ‘La Sapienza’ University of Rome – 2002 One year fellowship for Master of Science in Architecture Studies at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA – 1999 Licensed Architect, n° 287 of the Professional Association of Architects, Planners, Landscapers and Conservers of the Province of Terni – 1998 Degree in Architecture from the University of Rome, ‘La Sapienza’, School of Architecture and Urban Planning (110/110) – 1996

Latest Projects / Publications

– 1998-2017 Carlo Achilli has planned and directed, in almost twenty years of private practice, around fifty projects: four master plans, five landscape design, ten directional and commercial use (hotels, restaurants and shops), five mixed used buildings, including a cultural center and an historical archive and about twenty five residential use (villas, holiday houses, flats), prevalently in Umbria and Tuscany, but also in Sicily, Lazio and Rome:

– 2017 LUXURY APARTMENTS, XVth-XIXth Centuries, architectural survey, project design, works management and safety plan for the renovation of two historical buildings located in Piazza del Carmine and via della Fonderia, San Frediano district in Florence, built on top of pre-existing medieval and renaissance structures. The concept design was based on restoration, rehabilitation and reuse of the buildings for contemporary living.

– 2016 FRATELLI PICCINI FOUNDATION AT PONTE VECCHIO, XVth-XVIIth Centuries, Florence: renovation of an historical jewellery. Architectural project design for an historical archive, a small museum and handcraft laboratory. Renovation of the panoramic terrace on the Arno River. Metric estimates of total cost and general lay out, renderings and works management were integral part of the work. (Published in AND mag.ne n°30, 2016)

– 2016 VILLA BALDINI IN CHIANTI, XXth Century, San Polo in Chianti (FI): landscaping and architectural project design, interior design, works management and safety plan. The project was focused on a sustainable design for the two stories building, while respecting the traditional Tuscan farmhouse typology. Particular attention was given to sustainable construction techniques and materials.

Teaching Philosophy

I believe in teaching and I teach who I am as an Architect. In other words, I don’t believe teaching can be reduced to technique. Instead, I believe good teaching comes from the identity and integrity of the teacher. My philosophy of education has the following goals: to share the knowledge and experience I have acquired during my ten years as an free lance architect, architectural designer, restoration and preservation project manager: to integrate theory and practice: to enlarge knowledge of historical typology and traditional building technologies: to facilitate an interdisciplinary process of learning that leads students to the production of works linked with Italian urban context and historical Palazzi.

Most Rewarding Moments

My favorite rewarding and transformative teaching moment is described by students at the end of each semester reading their feedbacks and enthusiastic quotes. So, I believe that teaching is a marathon, not a sprint.

Favorite Quote

“Good teaching is one-fourth preparation and three-fourths theatre.” (Gail Godwin)

Federico Damonte

Courses taught at the Institute

Identity and Culture in Italy: A Comparative Approach

Credentials

2004 Ph.D in Linguistics, University of Padua
1998 BA and Masters Degree: Summa cum laude, Modern languages (English and Dutch), University of Padua

Latest Projects / Publications

– 2011 – 2012 Wissenschaftlicher mitarbeiter: Goethe-Universität Fankfurt am Main, Institut für Romanische Sprachen und Literaturen
– 2009 – 2011 Marie Curie Research Fellow: University of Cambridge, Department of Italian. Title of the project: Dialectal variation and the definition of finiteness: finite and non-finite dependent clauses in two dialect clusters

Edited books:
– 2009 (with P. Benincà and N. Pennello), Selected Proceedings of the XXXIV Incontro di Grammatica Generativa [IGG], Rivista di Grammatica Generativa, Padova: Unipress.
– 2007 (with J. Garzonio), Studi sui dialetti della Puglia, Padova, Unipress.

Articles:
– 2011 (with J. Garzonio) “Sull’inversione ipotetica in russo”, in F. Biagini (ed.) Le lingue slave ieri e oggi: morfosintassi, semantica e pragmatica, Bologna, Bologna University Press.
– 2010 (with C.Poletto) “I quantificatori nei dialetti siciliani del progetto ASIt” [Quantifiers in the sicilian dialects of the ASIt project], J. Garzonio (ed.) Studi sui dialetti della Sicilia, Padova: Unipress, pp.43-61.
– 2010 (with C. Zanini) “Ordini marcati dei costituenti in siciliano” [Marked order of the constituents in Sicilian], in J. Garzonio (ed.) Studi sui dialetti della Sicilia, Padova: Unipress, pp. 139-153.
– 2010 “Matching moods: Mood concord between CP and IP in Salentino andSouthern Calabrian subjunctive complements”, in P. Benincà and N. Munaro (eds.), Mapping the left periphery, Oxford-New York: Oxford University Press.
– 2010 (with A. Padovan), “Prefissi sia separabili che inseparabili in tedesco” [Separable and inseparable prefixes in German], in D. Bertocci-E. Triantafillis (eds), Atti della Giornata sui Preverbi [Proceedings of the Workshop on Preverbs], Quaderni Patavini di Linguistica, 26.

Teaching Philosophy

I learned most of what I know from teachers whose jobs were their passions. They thought the issues they investigated were relevant and fascinating, and always questioned whether we had the right intellectual tools to tackle them. They did not “teach” as much as tried to make you see for yourself the complexity under the simple surface, and the best way to account for it. I try to apply the same “method” in my own teaching, I try to focus on issues I think are relevant for my students, and make them feel comfortable about expressing their opinions. I am convinced that in the humanities some very useful and general principles can be accurately learned even from exposure to few and limited facts, if the teacher is able to extrapolate from them experiences, beliefs and attitudes familiar to all.

Most Rewarding Moments

When students show they can connect their own personal experience and ideas to the notions and events discussed in class.

Favorite Quote

“Learn from the mistakes of others, you can never live long enough to make them all yourself” – Groucho Marx

Francesca Marini

Courses Taught at the Institute

The Art of Florence: Exploring Visual Culture
The Business of Art: the Economics and Management of Culture

Credentials

Ph.D. Modern Art History – Università degli Studi di Firenze
Laurea cum laude in Modern Art History – Università degli Studi di Firenze

Latest Projects / Publications

– “Larghi d’oro in oro per parte di miniatura”: i Corali Edili 148-151 e l’Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore a Firenze, in ‘Medieval Charm: Illuminated Manuscripts for Royal, Aristocratic, and Ecclesiastical Patronage’ by F. Brazès-Moly and F. Marini, International conference proceedings, Florence, ISI Florence, 20 October 2015, Perpignan, forthcoming.

– “Florence – Rome round trip: the Florentine art collecting context and the Salviati” methodus, forthcoming.

– “Catalogo delle opere, biografia, apparati”, in ‘Modigliani’ by R. Chiappini, exhibition catalogue, Genova, Palazzo Ducale, 16 March- 17 July 2017, Milano.

– “John Currin: Paintings”, Gagosian Quarterly Magazine, September 2016.

– “A new Drawing by Mantegna”, in ‘The Burlington Magazine’, 157.2015,1344, pp.155-157

Teaching Philosophy

Applying knowledge while learning and developing critical thinking in the past and current world analysis are fundamental in my teaching method. For this reason, the understanding of Middle Ages and Renaissance Art in Florence and the economic and social mechanisms of the markets for visual arts are achieved in my classes through a mutual exchange with the students, a constant questioning on the causes and the effects of the making, the display and the consumption of art in different cultural, social and geographical contexts.

Most Rewarding Moments

Catching the glimpse of joy in students’ eyes observing closely a major artwork for the first time.

Favorite Quote

‘Intention is the forward-leaning look of things. It is not a reconstituted historical state of mind, then, but a relation between the object and its circumstances.’ – Micheal Baxandall

Francesca Passeri

Course Taught at the Institute
Intercultural Communication

Credentials
2012- Ph.D. Telematica e Società dell’Informazione, University of Florence and National Research Council (C.N.R.)
2001- Master in Media and Communication, University of Florence
1998- School of Law, University of Florence

 Relevant Projects / Publications
– L’accesso alla professione giornalistica. Canali alternativi al praticantato. Scuole e Università di giornalismo, in “Manuale di Diritto dell’informazione e della comunicazione”, Cedam 1999.
– Social Network e diritti di libertà, in Informatica e Diritto, n. 2 2009.
– Open Data per una Pubblica Amministrazione trasparente. Dimensioni coinvolte e approcci possibili, in “Informatica e Diritto”, n. 2 2010.
– E-participation, I contributi delle tecnologie dell’informazione nella partecipazione dei cittadini ai processi di policy-making. Livelli, modi e soggetti coinvolti, forthcoming.
– Founder and member of FLICK (cultural association), Factory for Learning International Culture and Cross Creative Knowledge.
– Member of Common Board – Alumni Association, College of Political Science Cesare Alfieri, University of Florence.

Teaching Philosophy
I love to create a stimulating and really communicative environment in class. I invite my students to perceive and understand human diversity by exploring cultural differences within a context of constantly changing global systems, and also to answer the following question: how do people understand one another when they do not share a common cultural experience? I also encourage my students to apply theoretical skills to reality and to their own experience as human beings living abroad, and to analyze Italian culture and Florence as study subjects as well. And I like sharing my enthusiasm with my students!

Most Rewarding Moments
When I clearly realize that students went far beyond the simplistic assimilation of theoretical notions and learned how to apply them to reality. When they have been able to build a symbolic “bridge” between theories and practices.

Favorite Quote
“Mama always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” (Forrest Gump)

Daniela Sinicropi

Courses taught at the Institute

Advanced Topical Design Studio: Urban – Assistant Professor
Architectural Structures II

Credentials

Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering, from the University of Florence in collaboration with the University of Braunschweig, Germany

Licensed Architect. University of Florence, 2008 qualifying examination. N° 7446 of the Professional Association of Architects, Planners, Landscapers and Conservers of the Province of Florence, Italy, Section A – 2009

Degree in Architecture from the University of Florence with first class honours (110/110, magna cum laude) – 2008

Latest Projects / Publications

Freelance architect since 2009, I have been involved in several flat renovations, interior design projects and safety plans for public and private sectors. Together with a research team at the University of Florence, I have published the following articles:
Paradiso, M., Perria, E., Galassi, S., Sinicropi, D., Structural Integrity and Consolidation of the Cathedral of Santiago de Cuba, Congreso Internacional sobre Documentación, Conservación y Reutilización del Patrimonio Arquitectonico, Madrid, Spain 20 -22 June 2013, pp 619-626, ISBN 978-84-15321-73-6
Paradiso, M., Galassi, S., Borri, A., Sinicropi, D., “Reticolatus”: An Innovative Reinforcement for Irregular Masonry – a Numeric Model, Proceedings of the Second International Conference on Structures and Architecture, Guimaraes, Portugal, 24-26 July, 2013, pp. 841- 848, ISBN 978-0-415-66195-9

Most Rewarding Moments

One of the most rewarding moments is when, in the course of the semester, we see how much of what we teach comes out in their design philosophy. The site visits and the field trips are also moments of exposure that they themselves describe as unforgettable!

Favorite Quote

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”
Albert Einstein

Franco Pisani

Courses Taught at the Institute

Architecture Design Studio VI
History of Italian Design

Credentials

Laurea in Architettura – Professional Degree in Architecture, 1997
Università degli studi di Firenze
Licensed Architect, Italy
Ordine degli Architetti della provincia di Firenze n° 5283 – 1997

Latest Projects/Publications

www.qart.it
– 2008 sassi turchini: center for accessible holidays ,Porto Azzurro,Isola d’Elba (under construction)
– 2008 modenacambiafaccia urban design competition, Modena, III prize
– 2008 scuola media don milani, design competition for a didactic complex, vicchio, FI, IV prize
– 2007 lipomo design competition for a didactic complex, lipomo, CO, IV prize
– 2006 palestra comunale, Golfo Aranci, OT (built)

Teaching Philosophy

We learn… 10% of what we read, 20% of what we hear, 30% of what we see, 50% of what we both see and hear, 70% of what we discussed with others, 80% of what we experience personally, 95% of what we TEACH someone else
– William Glasser

Some assert that you can learn architecture but you can’t teach architecture. It may sound as a justification for not-responsible teachers, but there is something true on that. Architecture is a discipline made of acts of faith, rituals, illuminations more than reassuring univocal formulas. Every moment is a good one, leave doors opened: ideas come also when you are not looking for them. Design for an architect is a vital necessity, extremely involving. If you don’t feel this kind of commitment, you’d better ask yourself if this is the right direction for you: the world is full of bad architects, it’s better not to enlarge that family.

Favorite Teaching Moments

“You are still one of just a couple teachers who really had a strong influence on my thinking.” E.C. (fall ’04);
“I truly can say I was pushed architecturally in ways I have not experienced before from a class- and I loved it. It was an incredible class and it was really great to get to see Italy through your eyes”. A.K. (spring ’06);
“I wanted to thank you for being such a passionate teacher. I really realized when I got home how much i enjoyed your words. You were a good “kick in the ass” to get me through the thesis, so thank you”. D.F. (spring ’06);
“It was definitely a great semester and you opened my eyes to a lot of new possibilities in arch”. G.Z. (spring ’07);
“I feel i have learned so much from you about the life of an architect and especially about presenting and communicating ideas” R.H. (spring ’07).

Favorite Quote

“Talking about music is like dancing about architecture.” – Frank Zappa

Silvia Catitti

Courses Taught at the Institute

Special Topics: The Villa and The Garden
Architecture in Italy: History and Preservation

Credentials

University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Department of Architectural History, Restoration, and Conservation, Ph.D., Licensed Architect

Latest Projects / Publications

– The Vestibule of the Laurentian Library and Designs for the Staircase, in Michelangelo as an Architect at San Lorenzo, Michelangelo drawing exhibition (Florence, Casa Buonarroti, 2007), Main Curator PIETRO RUSCHI (Exhibition Curator)
– S. CATITTI, “Carlo Scarpa, Poetry and Japanese Architecture”, in Italia e Giappone a confronto. Cultura, psicologia, arti, STEFANO U. BALDASSARRI ed., Florence, Pontecorboli (in preparation, Author)
– S. CATITTI, “Exploring Michelangelo through Exhibitions”, in Monographic Exhibitions and the History of Art, DONATELLA PEGAZZANO and MAIA WELLINGTON GAHTAN, eds., London – New York, Routledge (in press, Author)
– S. CATITTI, “The Laurentian Library. Patronage and Building History,” in San Lorenzo: Architecture, Liturgy, and Art in a Florentine Religious Community, ROBERT GASTON and LOUIS A. WALDMAN eds., Florence, Villa I Tatti, 2017, pp. 380-424 (Author)
– S. CATITTI, “1521-1527: La Sagrestia Nuova e la Biblioteca Laurenziana,” in Michelangelo: Una Vita, PATRIZIO AIELLO ed,. Milan, Officina Libraria, 2014, pp. 163-182 (Author)

Teaching Philosophy

Exposing students to multiple lenses through which one can look at, talk about, and experience architecture, I aim to stimulate their desire to develop their own viewing angle on the topic, according to their own background and interests. I hope that, with their comprehensive Florentine experience, they acquire an approach that, back home, they can apply to multiple subjects.

Most Rewarding Moments

When I see students elaborate on the issues we address in class and on site, and use their knowledge and opinion to discuss our topic with their peers.

Favorite Quote

“Architecture can profoundly affect a place, sometimes transform it. Architecture and any art can transform a person” FRANK O’GEHRY

Serena Baldini

Courses taught at the Institute

The Florence Experience I: Beginning Italian I
The Florence Experience II: Beginning Italian II
The Florence Experience III: Intermediate Italian I
The Florence Experience IV: Intermediate Italian II
The Florence Experience V: Advanced Italian

Credentials

Three-Year Master Degree, School of Counseling, Centro di Ascolto e Orientamento Psicoanalitico di Pistoia e Firenze, 2014. Concentration field: Education. Dissertation Title: Dalla questione del paesaggio al paesaggio di Question.

Master in Didactics of Italian as a Second Language and Promotion of Italian Culture, University “Ca’ Foscari”, Venice, Italy, 2006. Dissertation Title: Issues related to the motivational aspects of Language Learning and didactic projects for monolingual American classes.

Annual Specialization post-graduate course in Language and Communication, Department of Linguistics , University of Florence, Italy, 1997

Laurea in Philosophy, University of Florence, Italy, 1996. Dissertation Title: Vilfredo Pareto- Thoughts and Concepts of Society

Relevant Projects / Publications

S. Baldini – D. Marini, “Vorrei. Corso di lingua italiana di livello elementare 1”.Libro di testo e libro degli esercizi. Firenze University Press, Florence 2016.

Campi che fuggivano, (When the fields were running, English version of the prose translated by G. Dragnea Horvath and D.S. Butterworth), in “Voyages, Rethinking Nature and its Expression”, Winter 2015, published by Gonzaga University in Florence. (http:// www.voyagesjournal.net)

Counseling e il nuovo status del docente. Esperienze nell’insegnamento dell’italiano in classi monolingui anglofone, in collaboration with David Marini, in “Voyages, Rethinking Nature and its Expression”, Summer 2013, Gonzaga University in Florence.

Teaching Philosophy

I want to share my enthusiasm for the Italian language and the Italian culture. I believe it is essential to involve students actively in their learning experience. I seek to foster students’ creativity and to encourage their active participation in class and real interaction with the Italian environment.

Most Rewarding Moments

When students create situations of spontaneous interaction in Italian with the teacher and among themselves.
When students show a desire to learn and know more about Italian culture and to discover the “world outside “of the classroom.

Favorite Quote

“I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I understand.” (Chinese saying).

Stefano Corazzini

Courses Taught at the Institute

Survey and Drawing: Mapping Florence Architecture
Cultural Engagement Practicum Tour Guide for the City Hall (Palazzo Vecchio) Museum
Advanced Architectural Design Studio – Assistant Professor

Credentials

Master of History of Architecture, University of Roma 3, Rome
Laurea in Architettura – Professional Degree in Architecture, Tutela e Recupero del Patrimonio Storico Architettonico, University of Florence

Latest Projects / Publications

2016 – Santa Maria del Carmine in: il quaderno, the ISI Florence Architectural Journal n°01, Spring 2016
2015 – L’architettura raffigurata series of lectures in Palazzo Vecchio, by Mus.e Firenze
2015 – Project office furniture, Mus.e in Palazzo Canacci, Firenze
2014 – Project office furniture, Mus.e in Museo 900, Firenze
2014 – Project library space, Mus.e in Palazzo Vecchio, Firenze
2014 – Furniture design: info desk Mus.e, Santa Marina Novella Church
2013 – Palazzo Vecchio Museum’s Bookshop guideline
2012 – Assistant to the online exhibition Size Matters. Scale and Measure in Photography of the photo library of the Kunsthistorisches Institut in Florenz
2012 – Merchandising design for Palazzo Vecchio Museum’s Bookshop

Teaching Philosophy

I love teaching. Sharing experiences and knowledge with enthusiasm, will bring motivation and curiosity to students and increase the value of their studying abroad time.

Favorite Quote

“Architecture starts when you carefully put two bricks together.”
Ludwing Mies Van Der Rohe

Federica di Sarcina

Course Taught at the Institute
The European Union

Credentials
University of Pavia, History of European Integration, Ph.D.

Relevant Projects / Publications

Books

F. Di Sarcina, L’Europa delle donne. La politica di pari opportunità nella storia dell’integrazione europea (1957-2007), Bologna, Il Mulino, 2010.

Joint Publications

F. Di Sarcina (eds.), Cultura di genere e politiche di pari opportunità. Il gender mainstreaming alla prova tra UE e Mediterraneo, Bologna, Il Mulino, 2014.

F. Di Sarcina, L. Grazi, E. Sergi (eds.), Obiettivo Europa. L’insegnamento dell’integrazione europea a scuola, Siena, CRIE, 2013.

Articles

Le service «Information Femmes» de la Commission européenne et l’héritage de Fausta Deshormes La Valle, in E. Gubin et F. Thébaud (dir., avec la collaboration d’A.-L. Briatte), L’Europe, une chance pour les femmes ? Le genre de l’intégration européenne, Paris, éditions de la Sorbonne, 2018

La Comunità/Unione europea e la questione femminile. Origini, sviluppi e sfide future, in M. Minesso (a cura di), Welfare, donne e giovani in Europa nei secoli XIX-XX, Milano, Franco Angeli, 2015, pp. 285-298

Teaching Philosophy

My main goal is to create an open, non-discriminatory, and friendly learning environment in which students can develop a critical thinking and an increasingly awareness of the world they live in.

Most Rewarding Moment

When lectures trigger a lively debate among students and they appreciate the mutual exchange of ideas even in their free time.

Favorite Quote

“Never surrender. Never give up the fight” (Emmeline Pankhurst)

Pierluca Birindelli

Courses Taught at the Institute
Identity and Culture
Sociology of the Arts

Credentials
2003 Ph.D. in Sociology of Culture and Communication, University of Florence
1999 M.A., Media, Communication and Cultural Studies, University of Florence
1998 Laurea in Political Science, University of Florence

Honors & Latest Projects
Pierluca Birindelli has published in Italian two books on the passage from youth to adulthood (Clicca su te stesso 2006; I giovani italiani tra famiglia e scuola 2010), a monograph about self-identity in late modernity (Sé: Concetti e pratiche 2008) and a number of articles addressing the themes of individual and collective identity. In English, he is the author of the book The Passage from Youth to Adulthood: Narrative and Cultural Thresholds (2014).

Birindelli adopts a multidisciplinary approach (Cultural Sociology, Cultural Anthropology, Social Psychology, Communication Studies, Biographical and Narrative approach) and his research interests focus on the following themes: Individual and Collective Identities; European Socio-Cultural Identity; Education in Comparative Perspective; Cultural Globalization and Cosmopolitanism; Human Development in a Comparative Perspective (American, Northern European and Mediterranean Cultural Heritage).

2016 Researcher (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellow), Department of Social Research, University of Helsinki.

Teaching Philosophy
My primary goal is to foster students’ critical thinking and imagination. I believe that the best way to obtain this objective lies in the capacity to construct a dialogic environment, where is crystal clear that learning together, the best we can, is our mission (nothing more, nothing less). Students shall never censor themselves, but always express their opinions upon any theme—and the discussion about sensitive themes shall never be avoided in a social science class—keeping in mind that reading, studying and being curious is the only way to construct thoughtful interpretations. Students should also try to take the challenge of exploring unknown cultural territory, not expecting to receive the “perfect map”— you go from A to B and then to C and so on —in advance.

Most Rewarding Moments
When students express their opinions and at the same time are willing to question them.

Favorite Quote
The primary task of a useful teacher is to teach his students to recognize “inconvenient” facts—I mean facts that are inconvenient for their party opinions. And for every party opinion there are facts that are extremely inconvenient, for my own opinion no less than for others (Max Weber)

Tiziano Lucchesi

Courses Taught at the Institute

The Art of Buon Fresco
Drawing: The Human Figure
Beginning/ Advanced Oil Painting

Credentials

1995-2000 Degree: Master’s Degree cum laude, Academy of Fine Arts, Florence, Italy
1998 Diploma in Stone Working, Arezzo
1990-1995 Art Institute of Florence (Istituto Statale d’Arte di Firenze)
1995: Diploma in Applied Arts
1993: Diploma in Fine Arts

ARTISTIC SKILLS AND COMPETENCES

In-depth knowledge of ancient wall painting techniques and organic supports, as described in the best-known art manuscripts. Teaching since 2003 at Florence-based institutions (see Work Experience section of CV)
• Wall paintings restorer since 2000 with participation in interventions of particular historic and artistic interest (again, see Work Experience). Since 1995 independent realization of more than 100 murals in fresco and dry, commissioned by both public and private clients, for a total extension of about 2000 square meters, including: the outdoor structure of a medieval monastery, a town hall, some facades in historic centres, and numerous interiors of villas, hotels, and cafes.
• My own painting also relies on the use of mineral materials suitable for fresco technique, adopting methods and recipes both ancient and contemporary. This allows me to promote a pictorial-figurative as well as technical-material kind of art that I have displayed in many exhibitions and public events. Personal exhibitions in 2005, 2006, 2007 (a catalog of my works came out in 2008).
• Among the painting techniques I use are fresco, fresh dry, paint whitewash, encaustic, graffiti on mortar (both ancient and modern), trompe l’oeil, grotesque, ambient decorations , false walking surfaces with mortar, egg, glue, wax, wax cold, wax – resins, “tempera grassa”, oil, oleo-resins, casein, mosaic, fake marble in plaster, fake marble in soap

LATEST RESTORATIONS

2016 Director of Restoration: Palazzo del Gianbologna – Florence – Restoration of a nineteenth-century painting, and XVI sec. (Borgo Pinti, Santa Croce Florence)
2015 Director of Restoration: Palazzo Guadagni – Florence – Restoration of a nineteenth-century painting at Biblioteca Thovar, the ground floor of Palazzo Guadagni. (Piazza Santo Spirito, Florence)(Soprintendenza per i beni culturali di Firenze)
2015 Instructor:Ex Scuderie- Istituto Statale d’Arte di Firenze – Florence – Restoration of an early eighteenth-century ceiling. (Soprintendenza per i beni culturali di Firenze)
2014 Director of Restoration:Palazzo Guadagni – Florence – Restoration of a nineteenth-century painting, two rooms on the first floor. (Piazza Santo Spirito, Florence)(Soprintendenza per i beni culturali di Firenze)
2013 Director of Restoration: Palazzo Giugni – Florence – Restoration of a mural dating from the first half of the sixteenth century on the second floor. (Soprintendenza per i beni culturali di Firenze)

SELECTED WORKS OF ART

• Marzo 2013 Decorations of the rooms on the first floor of the Renaissance Palazzo Giugni. Firenze
• November 2012 Decorations of the rooms on the third floor of the Renaissance Palazzo Giugni. Firenze
• April 2009 Decoration of the ceiling on the third floor of the Renaissance Palazzo Giugni. Firenze
• December 2008 Decoration of the Hall ceiling in a Grand Hotel Miravalle- San Miniato Pisa
• July 2007 creation of large fresco in a village on Lake Como, Italy • July 2007: creation of two works with the “Buon fresco” technique in Taceno, near Lake Como, Italy
• February 2007: creation of a fresco in the Florence Art Academy with my students
• February 2006, Cow Parade, Italy. Decoration of one 51 Italian cows displayed in the piazzas of Italy. Sold at auction to benefit the Meyer Hospital in Florence

LATEST EXHIBITIONS

• 2006 Exhibition of three works Galleria d’Arte, “Atelier d’Arte” di Franceschi Eliana, Lucca
• 2007 Personal Exhibition – Portraits, San Miniato (Pisa) • 2007 Personal Exhibition – Portraits, Villa Zappala, Turin “ Introduction of Vittorio Sgarbi
• 2008 Personal Exhibition “Speziali” Castello di Lari PISA (Author Catalogue)

LATEST AWARDS AND HONORS

• Luglio 2009 Selection and Prize-giving by “Muri d’Autore” and Comune di Valloria – Imperia for a painting door in the city
• October 2008 Recognition from the committee created by Vittorio Sgarbi. Prize-giving by “Muri d’Autore” and Comune di Gavazzana – Alessandria Mantova, for a mural painting in the city
• September 2008 Prize-giving of the contest “GUIDIZZOLO IN ARTE” organized by the Associazione Franco Bombana for a mural painting.

Teaching Philosophy

I strongly believe in the importance of passing on artistic traditions. The artists of the past also studied for twenty years in the master’s workshop, before becoming masters themselves. Having been a student, I understand the importance of engaging my students in exciting ways. What I like to do in my classes is explain theory and allow the students absorb these lessons when performed in practice. How was a Roman painting made compared to a Greek or Oriental one? How did they paint on walls in the Middle Ages or the Renaissance or the Baroque period? How is a famous painting like the Venere by Botticelli or the Monnalisa by Leonardo made? All this information has been handed down to us thanks to the meticulous work of historians and artist-writers, and now, thanks to the technology of restoration, we are able to evaluate the results and appreciate them even more. The art world is beautiful and fascinating, and, like everything else, in order to achieve significant results, it requires commitment and dedication. I wish to teach my students this lesson.

Alessandro Masetti

Courses taught at the Institute

Social Media from an Italian Perspective
Professional Fashion Writing- Teaching Assistant

Credentials

2015- Architecture Licensure, Florence
2014- Master’s Degree in Architecture, University of Florence

Latest Projects / Publications

– Curator of the exhibition “Giovanni Michelucci. La costruzione della città” for Pistoia Italian capital of culture 2017
Sale affrescate Palazzo Comunale, Pistoia (March 24 – May 21, 2017)
– Curator of the display “Michelucci e le arti del XX secolo”
Fondazione Giovanni Michelucci, Fiesole (October, 2016)
– Curator of the display “Le parole di Michelucci”
Fondazione Giovanni Michelucci, Fiesole (April, 2016)
– Curator of the exhibition “Trompe l’Oeil. Schiudi l’arte e mettila da parte”
Semiottagono, Ex carcere delle Murate, Firenze (Italy) – March 2016

Teaching Philosophy

I invite students to develop a personal vision that goes far beyond the average thinking, especially considering blogging and social media as contemporary “tools” to do so. Nowadays, when posting pictures or writing on the net you are literally building your own professional reputation. I want to make sure my students learn how to use these tools in the best way for their future.

Most Rewarding Moments

When I read students’ assignments and there’s no correction needed because they expressed emotions and feelings as professional writers. Writing for the web is hard. Not only you need to catch the attention of your readers, but also their respect. And you can’t do it without your heart.

Favorite Quote

“Less is more”, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Rita Comanducci

Courses taught at the Institute

Architecture: Roman to Early Christian
The Art of Florence: Exploring Visual Culture

Credentials

Ph.D. in Economic History (The Art Market in Renaissance Florence) – University of Verona
Specialization Course (Master) in Historical Studies – Istituto Italiano di Studi Storici, Naples
Laurea cum Laude in Renaissance History (Bernardo di Giovanni Rucellai) – University of Florence
Currently student of Renaissance Lute at the Scuola di Musica di Fiesole

Latest Projects / Publications

Currently member of the editorial board of Il Liuto, Rivista della Società del Liuto
2000-2002 Post-doctoral Research Fellowship in Economic History, University of Siena
1999 CNR-NATO Research Fellowship, Research Department, Victoria and Albert Museum, London

– “Bernardo Rucellai”, in Dizionario Biografico degli Italiani, Roma, Istituto della Enciclopedia Italiana, (forthcoming)
– “Il fascino della ‘risonanza’. Viaggio di un’idea tra scienza, platonismo e quabbalah”, in Umanesimo e cultura ebraica nel rinascimento italiano, Proceedings of the International Congress ISI Florence, Palazzo Rucellai, Firenze, 10 March 2016, ed. S. U. Baldassarri – F. Lelli, Firenze, Angelo Pontecorboli, 2016
– “Il liuto di Re Salomone”, in «Il Liuto. Rivista della Società del Liuto», XIII, November 2016
– “Il liuto dalla corda spezzata: pensiero, arte e politica alle origini di un simbolo”, in «Il Liuto. Rivista della Società del Liuto», 10, May 2015
– “Lo studio di Rubens di Cornelis de Baeilleur”, in «Il Liuto. Rivista della Società del Liuto», 8, May 2014
– “Orti Oricellari”, in Enciclopedia Machiavelli, Roma, Istituto della Enciclopedia Italiana, 2014

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that love and enthusiasm are the two most important ingredients for any class you teach: seeing students responding with joy, parteciaption and interest tells me that what we have learned together will remain for long in our memory and in our spirit.

Most Rewarding Moments

Seeing students leaving the class with a smile in their eyes, and reading the joyful emails they send me once the semester is over and they are back home.

Peter Fischer

Courses taught at the Institute

History and Politics of Modern Italy
The History & Culture of Food: A Comparative Analysis
The History of Agriculture, Food and Sustainability in Italy

Credentials

M.A., Rheinisch-Westfaelische Technische Hochschule (RWTH), Aachen
Ph.D., European University Institute, Florence (Italy)

Teaching Philosophy

Learning is a life-long endeavor. My goal is to prepare students for this by providing them with a base of knowledge and sophistication upon which they can build, and to encourage in them attitudes and techniques for continued learning. As A. Toffler put it so well, “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.”

Most Rewarding Moments

I enjoy teaching ISI students that bring a spirit of curiosity, motivation, and enthusiasm.

Favorite Quote

“Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.”
– Albert Einstein

Catia Santi

Courses Taught at the Institute

The Florence Experience I: Beginning Italian I
The Florence Experience II: Beginning Italian II
The Florence Experience III: Intermediate Italian I
The Florence Experience IV: Intermediate Italian II
The Florence Experience V: Advanced Italian

Credentials

July 2015 – Candidate for Certification Ditals II – advanced level – Università per Stranieri di Siena.
March – June 2006 – Course Advanced “ALIAS” teaching italian – Univertà Ca’ Foscari di Venezia
March – May 2001 – Master in Comunication – Private Institute METAUNIVERSITY – Roma.
January – June 1998 – POST-GRADUATE course in “Language & Comunication” – University of Firenze – Linguistic Department.
July 1996 – Degree in Foreign Languages and Literatures, University of Firenze. Specialization in “European Linguistic”. Grade: 110/110 and laudem.
From March to April 1993 – Training course on “Teaching Italian as a second language” at Koinè School – Firenze.

Relevant Publications

Currently one of several authors writing an Italian language book for beginners and implementing the latest research for higher education specifically for American students. To be published by University Florentine Press in December 2014.
December 2013: Penza State University – International Conference on Language Teaching: Language in Higher Education – Abstract: “The main difficulties in teaching Italian language in a monolingual and monocultural group.”
June 2005: “IdeaDue” – textbook of Italian language for foreign students: Communication & Grammar – Intermediate and Advanced – Progetto Lingua – Firenze
July 2004: “IdeaUno” – textbook of Italian language for foreign students: Communication & Grammar- Elementary – Progetto Lingua – Firenze
May 2000 and June 2001: Article – “History of Linguistic” – FOCUS Magazine

Teaching Philosophy

I believe in teaching my language and my culture with enthusiasm. In the majority of evaluations that I have read, many students wrote that I am patient and positive with them. This sentiment is, for me, a big success because I have communicated myself, my culture, my country effectively. Thanks to this, students can bring at home a piece of Italy. My philosophy of education has the following goals: to give all students the instruments for good and efficient communication in Italian and to allow for the possibility of better understanding Italy and Italians. I believe that language is the secret code for the culture.

Most Rewarding Moments

When students come to me and ask me something in Italian that is not in relation with the class but is a piece of information that they want to know, I see in their eyes the surprised pleasure at being able to communicate in Italian. This is very rewarding for me.

Favorite Quote

 ”Il buon insegnamento è per un quarto preparazione e tre quarti teatro” (Galileo Galilei).

Emanuela Agostini

Courses Taught at the Institute

ITAL 340: Readings in Italian Literature.  A Journey into Italian Theater (in Italian). Innamorate e Servette. Ruoli femminili nel teatro italiano.
Italian Language: The Florence Experience.

Credentials

2009 – Ph.D., History of the Performing Arts, University of Florence.
2005 – Laurea in Lettere, University of Florence.

Relevant Projects

2006-Present
Writer and editor (until 2009) for the online magazine Drammaturgia.it (www.drammaturgia.fupress.net).
2016
Collaborated in preparing an Italian language book for beginners: D. Marini-S. Baldini, Vorrei. Corso di lingua italiana di livello elementare 1. Libro di testo e libro degli esercizi, Firenze, Firenze University Press, 2016.
2013-2014
Research Fellowship, University of Florence, Dipartimento di Storia, Archeologia, Geografia, Arte, Spettacolo (SAGAS).  Project: “Attività di ricerca e stesura di biografie di attori e cantanti italiani per l’Archivio Multimediale degli Attori Italiani” directed by Siro Ferrone.

Latest Publications

-Vita e opere di un Comico dell’Arte: Francesco Gabrielli detto Scapino, in «Il Liuto. Rivista della Società del Liuto», n. 12, maggio 2016, pp. 1-13.
-Antonietta Robotti (Como, novembre 1817-Bologna, 29 agosto 1864), in «Drammaturgia», a. XII, n.s. 2-2015, pp. 241-262.
-Memorie d’attore. Vittorio Gassman – Carmelo Bene, in Renaissance then and now: danza, musica e teatro per un nuovo Rinascimento. Atti del convegno internazionale di studi (ISI Florence, Palazzo Rucellai, 7-9 maggio 2013), a cura di Stefano Baldassarri, Pisa, ETS, 2014, pp. 17-32.
-Il Bergamasco in commedia. La tradizione dello Zanni nel teatro d’antico regime, Bergamo, Lubrina, 2012, pp. 1-287.
-Actors’ biographical profiles in Archivio Multimediale degli Attori Italiani, directed by Siro Ferrone, Firenze, Firenze University Press, 2012.

Teaching Philosophy

Learning is starting a journey in an unknown land. My attempt is to make my students’ journey a stimulating one. My first goal is guiding them to taste the pleasure of discovery. I share with them my enthusiasm and passion for the subject I teach, and I encourage them to become the “main actors” of the learning process. In the texts we read, in the shows we attend, even in grammar rules… lies a mysterious “treasure” that we can bring to light together, collecting evidence and consulting witnesses…

Most Rewarding Moments

When students tell me about the “discoveries” they have autonomously done thanks to input received in class.

Favorite Quotes

“For on that is the mind fed wherein it is gladdened”  St. Augustine.
“Instruction does much, but encouragement everything”  Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Carlo Lorini

Course taught at the Institute
The Florence Experience I: Beginning Italian I

Credentials

University of Birmingham, Shakespeare Institute, M.A.

University of Florence, Laurea

Certificate for teaching Italian as a Foreign Language – DITALS, Università per Stranieri di Siena

Relevant Projects / Publications

June 2016, Speaker at the British Graduate Shakespeare Conference at the Shakespeare Institute in Stratford-upon-Avon (U.K.)

June 2016, Speaker at the International conference at the University of Padua (Italy), “ ‘Fair Padua, nursery of arts’ : Shakespeare and Padova 2016.’

April 2016, Speaker at the International conference at the University of Portsmouth (U.K.), ‘Shakespearian Communities.’

Summer 2011, Speaker at the World Conference on Shakespeare in Prague (the International Shakespeare Association)

Summer 2010, Speaker at the International conference at the University of Hobart (Tasmania) Shakespeare’s spaces

Summer 2008, Speaker at the International conference at the University of Reading (U.K.) Land and landscaping

Summer 2016, Shakespeare in Oxford Guest lecturer

Teaching Philosophy

Teaching students means setting an example. I like to see myself as a facilitator, a tool they can use in order to discover the language and the culture behind it. I also believe that learning a language means to explore its world, in any possible way, both in the classroom and outside it.

Most Rewarding Moment
When students experience the language outside of the classroom and suddenly discover that they can establish some sort of communication with native speakers.

Favorite Quote
“Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more” (William Shakespeare)

Michael Kwakkelstein

Courses Taught at the Institute

Art History Special Topics: Leonardo da Vinci
Art History Special Topics: Michelangelo
Symbolism and Meaning in Renaissance Art (1300-1600)
History of Italian Art, II: Michelangelo to Bernini
Ancient Art: Image and Text (honors)
The Art of Florence in Context: Masters and Monuments

Credentials

Leiden University, The Netherlands, Ph.D.
(Leonardo da Vinci as a Physiognomist, Theory and Drawing Practice) 1st Ed. Leiden 1994; 2nd Revised Edition Leiden 2014.
Professor of Art History, Utrecht University, The Netherlands (Since 2011)
Director of the Dutch University Institute for Art History in Florence (Since 2008)

Relevant Projects

Guest Curator Teyelers Museum (Haarlem, The Netherlands) of the exhibition Leonardo da Vinci as a Physiognomist. Exhibition of drawings, engravings and paintings (October 2018-January 2019).
Chief Curator Teylers Museum (Haarlem, 2005): Michelangelo drawings exhibition (in collaboration with the British Museum, London and the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford).
Rotterdam, The Kunsthal (1996): adviser exhibition Leonardo da Vinci: artist, scientist, inventor.
Professor of Art History, University of Amsterdam (2000-2002).
Haarlem, The Teylers Museum (2005): Curator of comprehensive Michelangelo Drawings Exhibition (in collaboration with the British Museum, London, and the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford).
Currently director of the Dutch University Institute for Art History in Florence and professor of Art History at Utrecht University, the Netherlands

Teaching Philosophy

I seek to ‘open’ the students’ eyes to the fascinating world of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, to inspire enthusiasm for the multifarious aspects of Renaissance art and to further the development of critical thinking and judgment. The most memorable moments are realized when in class students get into lively debates and raise fresh, new questions concerning the matters under discussion.

Advice for Students

Overall, students should bring a desire to learn about Italy and Italian culture. They should appreciate that studying in Florence provides them with a unique opportunity to learn in and out of the classroom and satisfy that desire while traveling and meeting like-minded fellow students.