Study in Venice
Posted On 02-09-2024
Mana is a Japanese student who is currently studying in the UK and this summer she decided to attend our Summer School to experience higher education in Venice and improve her knowledge about arts in such a unique city. This is what she told us about her two weeks in Italy.
Hi, can you please introduce yourself?
Hi, my name is Mana Takekawa and I’m from Japan. I am currently studying art history in England.
How did you first find out about the Arts in Venice Summer School The Shape of Water?
I was looking for a summer school and I looked on my university’s website, where they had another course by Ca’ Foscari University. I decided to look into it further and found this program which aligned with my interests.
Why did you decide to apply in the first place?
One of the main reasons that I decided to apply was the opportunity to study in Venice, which I think is quite unique. It was also appealing to me that the programme was multidisciplinary, and I wanted to expand my interests for the arts.
Are you happy with your overall experience?
Yes. I am so grateful to have participated in such academically and socially filled program.
Was this your first time in Venice?
This was actually my third time in Venice, I had been with my parents when I was younger and loved it. Although, studying in Venice was a much different experience than visiting as a tourist. I got to see so many different sides of the city that I wouldn’t have able to see if not for the program, which made it such a valuable experience for me. I have lived in a few different cities before, but Venice is such a unique city because histories and arts are everywhere, and I felt inspired the entire time I was there.
Can you please choose one lecture/activity that you especially enjoyed and tell us something about it?
I have a lot of favourite moments from the program, but I really enjoyed the workshops where we learnt about the organs. I am not a music student, but I grew up in a musical household and I feel like I was able to reconnect with my musical side. Visiting several churches in Venice, including the St Mark’s Basilica, to listen to the organs surrounded by beautiful artworks and learn all about the instrument was such a special and beautiful experience.
Did you find accommodation in Venice or on the mainland?
I was lucky to stay in a hotel in Venice during the program, and I enjoyed my stay. I do wish I stayed in a student accommodation as that would be nice to live close to your coursemates and meet different people who might not be in the program.
How was sharing this experience with other international participants?
It was such a mix of people, and I loved getting to know everyone. I found it really exciting and inspiring to be in such an international environment where everyone had different perspectives with diverse interests and passions, and I got to learn a lot from them. I enjoyed the lectures and workshops, but I think the people were what made this program so special.
What are your plans for the future?
I want to get a Master’s Degree and then I would love to stay in Europe if possible. I am interested in Museology so it would be a dream to work in an art gallery or a museum somewhere in Europe.