<p>Hey, I just wanted to add MICA Tuscany to the list. I went there last year, and it was an AMAZING experience. If you just want to work on developing your portfolio and gaining technical skill, then it’s probably not the place to go. If you want a more artistic experience, a really fun time, and incomparable subject matter, then you really may want to consider it. I can honestly say that the people I met there are the best friends I’ve ever had, I started a facebook (which I had been intent on avoiding) just to keep in touch with them, and frequently reminisce about moments from the trip.</p>
<p>Tuscany is absolutely beautiful, I don’t think you could possibly find with more artistic appeal (except maybe the Amalfi coast, but it’s just a different beauty). Hiking up the small villages and communicating with locals is incredible, and really gives you a feel of the countryside. Also, the local teenagers are hilarious, after you get over some of them stalking you around the town square and singing your name, lol. You get incredible exposure, including trips to Siena and Florence, and also to various sculpture gardens and the coast.</p>
<p>Technical instruction, however, is virtually nonexistent. Having gone on the trip hoping to learn how to use acrylics (I’m mostly into photography and drawing), I found myself set loose in Tuscany with my supplies, completely overwhelmed. By the time I asked for instruction, the course was halfway over, and only towards the end did I finally start to get a good grasp of acrylics and watercolors. If you don’t know how to paint before you go, I would suggest learning to avoid the situation I was in. However, I improved drastically, which is probably the best I could have hoped for in less than 3 weeks.</p>
<p>If you have any questions about MICA Tuscany, I would be happy to answer them!</p>