The Academy is the only public school based program in the entire nation that offers a "classically trained" form of education through expansive coursework on figure painting and classical drawing. It is led by David Chang, the founder and lecturer of the program. Many of his courses focus on the application of classical drawing and painting techniques from Italy and France. It offers one-on-one courses lead by David Chang himself , eliminating the barrier of a "large classroom" feel, where the professor is not as readily acceptable as those teaching one-on-one classes. The Academy strives to give students the necessary tools to be a classically trained artist, potentially heightening students careers in the long term.
Visiting France or Italy felt like a faraway dream, but I have immersed myself in their rich history and culture. These experiences are now a key part of my identity as an artist and a person.
These trips have greatly helped my artistic growth and sparked my interest in new materials and techniques. My trip to France is the highlight of the 2023-2024 academic year. The people I met and my experiences were essential to my artistic development. A professor guided us from the city to the countryside, revealing the country’s beauty.
This trip inspired me and fueled my passion for creativity. I had the chance to express my ideas with peers who share my artistic vision. Meeting local artists and experiencing different art scenes helped me understand various cultural viewpoints. These interactions broadened my view of art as a universal language that connects people from different backgrounds.
Learning about the history and culture behind the artworks deepened my appreciation for how they reflect society. It made me realize how social and political factors influence art. I am now responsible for incorporating these insights into my work, creating pieces that connect to broader themes.
The lessons and experiences from this journey are invaluable. I am grateful to Professor Chang for providing this opportunity, which has changed my life. This trip has enriched my artistic practice and improved my understanding of the world.