Altamura, Italy: Studies in Fresco Preservation

Summer 2008: May 23 - June 13 (tentative dates)

Academic Program

Puglia, in the south of Italy, is characterized by unusual ipogei (underground) settlements which have been inhabited for thousands of years.  Many of these settlements had churches decorated with religious frescoes and these, many damaged by time and vandals, are the focus of the preservation studies.  We will study the settlement history of the area, particularly between 1400 and 1700 A.D., the techniques used to create the frescoes (to include a practical exercise in making a fresco to help the students understand what exactly is involved in painting on wet plaster), and the techniques that may be utilized in the stabilization and conservation process.  We will visit a number of these churches and habitation sites throughout the Puglia and Basilicata regions, and there will be a chance to do some hands-on work in the cleaning and stabilization of these neglected expressions of religious art – either in a small chapel in Altamure or in a small underground church in the countryside.

Instructional methods include lectures, guided tours, tests/exams, hands-on preservation work and making of a fresco example (no talent needed) .

Tentative course offerings:
ARTH 320 or ANTH 494 Altamura, Italy, Studies in Fresco Preservation, 3 credits

Accommodations

Students will reside in De Bernardis, an agriturismo a bit out of Altamura in the countryside. Group meals will be provided.

Program Costs

For the current projected costs for this program, please click on the following link to the Fees for JMU Study Abroad Programs page.

Application

For more detailed instructions and to download the application, please click on the following link to the Applications and Forms section for JMU Short-Term Programs.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

For More Information

For additional information about the Altamura, Italy: Studies in Fresco Preservation program, please contact the program director:

Dr. Joan Walker
Assistant Adjunct Professor
Anthropology
E-mail: wmgjmw@ix.netcom.com