The SRISA staff is the essential backbone of the school, the heart of your new Italian family. Willing to help in any way, whether it be drawing you a map or pronounce a word for the 10th time, they are patient and always smiling. I thought it was time to highlight them and all the great things they do. How are they amazing, and how do they handle all these crazy students?! Keep checking back for more interviews with the SRISA staff.

Pietro Gagliano

Student perspective: “Pietro runs a very relaxed classroom. His informal way of teaching breeds deeper understandings of the topic and really helps one appreciate contemporary art. I hated it until Pietro was my teacher” – Brian D. Spring 2015

How long have you worked at SRISA?

One year as the professor of History of Contemporary Art. Three years as curator of exhibitions in the SRISA Gallery of Contemporary Art, along with special educational projects

What do you love about working at SRISA?

Everybody smiles! But you feel free to express your bad mood if you need. It’s just like a family (but that does not affect the professionalism of the staff and faculty.)

What makes SRISA different from other study abroad programs?

The real opportunity to share life experiences joined to a highly specialized program.

Whats something everyone should check out while in Florence?

To get in touch with the local art community.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Marrakech – all my life I’ve wanted to go there.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Vegan food.

What do you do in your free time? Do you have any hobbies?

My job is my favorite hobby. Art is my main interest.

What’s your favorite class to teach?

My favorite topic is Performance Art.

What class would you recommend to students?

Lorenzo’s class… and mine!

What is the importance of being aware of contemporary art for students?

Is the only way to be responsible citizens, to increase critical thinking, to not be automatic consumers.