Arts and Culture Tour 

Elora Twyford, Year 12, Plenty Campus

Over the school holidays, I attended the Arts and Cultural tour visiting Rome, Florence, Venice, and Paris with 35 other students across Ridgeway and Plenty campuses. As an art student with interests in history, architecture, and European culture, I was incredibly excited to experience the inspiring galleries and monuments across the four cities. Rome was most memorable for its many historical sites scattered throughout the city which we explored over our four day visit, my favourite of which being the Trevi Fountain where we made wishes by tossing coins into the water. In Florence, our experienced focused mostly on enjoying the smaller attractions throughout the city such as a leather market and pasta making. 

We were also able to see some of the most famous artworks of the Renaissance such as Botticelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus’ and Michelangelo’s ‘David’, as well as the city’s centrepiece, the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore where we climbed over 400 steps to reach a breathtaking view of the city at the very top of the famous dome. 

Venice was truly like walking into a postcard, the city itself being a monument of art and culture. We enjoyed relaxing gondola rides, gelati sitting over the edge of canals, and took part in a mask making workshop in which we could express our creativity while learning about the city’s history. Finally, we visited Paris, the city of love and fashion. I was thoroughly inspired by the many galleries and museums we explored such as the Louvre and Musée D’Orsay, and was able to fulfill my dreams of visiting Monet’s garden and gazing upon the artist’s famous water lily paintings. Overall, the trip was an incredible look into art history and provided me with lifelong memories and friendships.  

Olivia Nostro,  Year 12, Ridgeway Campus 

Participating in the Art and Culture tour was truly one of the most amazing experiences. We set off on Good Friday to visit the spectacular Italy and beautiful France. Italy was truly the crown of architecture, history, art, food, and fashion. We immersed ourselves in the magic of Michael Angelo in Vatican City, the grandness of the Colosseum in Rome and the treasures of Pompeii. Followed by the beautiful Trevi Fountain, the architecturally impossible Venice and sculptures galore in Florence. All while culturally gorging out on delicious gelato, pasta, and pizza.  

With already an abundance of art and architecture inspiration up our sleeve, we flew to Paris for more!! Here we strolled through Monet’s colourful garden, said hi to the Mona Lisa, made it to the top of the Eiffel Tower, and strolled through the Palace of Versailles. 

By far the best experience was gaining independence, meeting new students, and connecting with the teachers who worked so hard to ensure we all had the best time while being inspired by the world’s greatest art and architecture. All of which will be reflected in our current and future Art/VCD projects. 

There were so many incredible places that made for an unforgettable experience. By far, the trip was one of my biggest highlights of high school and I will treasure these memories forever.