Monday 2-22-10

Today was another wonderful day in Rome. Although we had a bit of a rough start with some rain, it cleared up and overall it was warm and beautiful. At 10 this morning, we started out on our journey to Piazza Navona, which was a fantastic start to week 8. With Lauren as our guide, we pushed through the streets and explored the possibilities of the oval-shaped Piazza. The foundation of Lauren's presentation was based on the fact that in ancient times, this space was used for circuses, jousts, carnivals, and other theatrical displays.

Sadly, after this brief introduction, we wandered into the center of the square to see that the Bernini's Four River Fountain, which was the glue to Lauren's entire project, was completely barricaded and walled-off for "further renovations".



Although there were four tiny windows that allowed us to make the best of a bad situation, Lauren improvised and had a strike of creative genius. Instead of simply viewing the fountain, we became the fountain. Conner took on the position of the obelisk. Natalia portrayed the Nile River, Erika the Rio de la Plata, Giulia the Ganges, and Nick the Danube. Carisa and Stephanie joined in as some of the additional decorations of the fountain, and armadillo and a lion. This gave us a feeling of the movement that the real fountain would have given off, if it was in action and uncovered.



Lauren's presentation was a nice way to ease the class back into session to begin this week, although it's safe to say that the main anticipation for everyone in the program is geared towards our trip to Naples this Thursday. We look forward to filling you in on the rest of the week, we can't wait to talk to you again tomorrow!!!

Carisa & Mick