The nice thing about jet lag is that it guarantees an early start to the day- something I rarely am able to do in my usual timezone. The complimentary breakfast served at the hotel looks like it fell straight out of a Dutch still life. In a small room overlooking the courtyard below, a table had been set up with silver platters of breads, cheeses, assorted croissants, and a bowl of plums and apricots fresh from the farmer's market. Cappuccinos were made to order.
My mission today was to pick up the art supplies I was not able to bring with me (mineral spirits, lead paint etc.) at Zecchi's, a local art store. I finally found it only to discover that, in true Italian spirit, they closed on weekends (as well as three hours out of the afternoon). What. I guess supplies will have to wait until tomorrow.
Slightly disappointed, I wandered around Piazza del Duomo and watched the swallows that nest there make their morning rounds. Because it was still early, the Piazza was pretty much deserted. I still had eight hours to kill before I could enter my apartment, so I decided to get lost in the city.
My first stop was the Museum that houses original artwork from the Duomo. Among the collection are illuminated manuscripts, original sculptures, and ceremonial items. Michelangelo's unfinished "Pieta" is also among the collection. I found this piece particularly fascinating because of its in-progress state. I always get scolded at by security guards at museums because of my habit of getting up close and personal with paintings. I can't help it. I love getting close enough to see individual brushstrokes, to demystify it and assure myself that it was made by a person and not some masterpiece-making magic. This in-progress still life was a treasure trove of information and I must've spent at least an hour in front of it. The unfinished head of Nicodemus/Michelangelo was a good subject for a quick head study.
After the museum, I headed down the street where a little cafe offered pizza and wine for 8 euro. I still had a good four hours to go before I could check into my apartment, so I wandered around, baked in the sun, and paid 6 euro to get eaten by mosquitos at the Medici medicinal gardens. I couldn't be happier when 6pm rolled around.
My apartment on Via delle Casine is literally across the street from the Academy. It has high ceilings and tall windows to let in plenty of natural daylight. I share it with another summer study student, Kes. She shares my love for tea and has the most adorable British accent. I think we will get along just fine.
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