Our story begins in Venice.
On a sweltering day in August many years ago, I arrived in the Venetian lagoon for a semester abroad that would change my life — and in a sense, I never left. Venice itself was my classroom, and exploration the method of inquiry and instruction. I grew to know the labyrinthine city known as la Serenissima — the Most Serene Republic — by heart, and formed a bond with the place that would endure well beyond that brief though transformative experience. After studying art history in the field, in churches, museums, and monuments, I knew that this was something that I wanted to continue to do for the rest of my life.
Thereafter I dedicated myself to deepening my knowledge of the art and culture of the Italian Renaissance through my graduate studies, culminating in a Ph.D. from Columbia University. I progressed from student to professor, and returned numerous times to the Serenissima to teach a new version of the very same course that had planted the seeds of my life-long passion for Renaissance art history all those years ago.
It is a dream come true to have come full circle, and to now be able to share my expertise and passion for the art and culture of Italy with others through my business, Mirabilia Art Adventures. To learn about our offerings, click the link below!
Education
My academic career has been informed and shaped by my extensive studies in the humanities and the arts, encompassing both intellectual and creative approaches.
Ph.D., Columbia University, Art History & Archaeology
M.Phil., Columbia University, Art History & Archaeology
M.A., University of Pennsylvania, Art History
M.A., Queens College, Music Performance
M.A., Middlebury College, Italian
B.A., Colgate University, Creative Writing
I am passionate about creating dynamic learning experiences that are based on direct engagement with places, spaces, and works of art and architecture.
From teaching formal university art history courses, to lecturing for educational programs and institutions, to designing and leading specialized tours for private individuals and families, I have extensive experience in on-site teaching in Italy and New York City.
Over the past several years, I have also expanded my virtual offerings and have collaborated with numerous organizations in offering online programming.