Two Unforgettable Weeks at the University of Vienna Winter School
By Ravit Hai
Ravit Hai studies Art History and European Studies at Ben Gurion University of the Negev. In February 2024, she attended the univie: winter school for Cultural Historical Studies in Vienna. She is interested in researching Austrian female artists in the 20th century and works at the research center for Austrian-German Studies.
Visit in the " Felice Rix-Ueno" exhibition, MAK Museum, Vienna 2024
Visit to the Leopold Museum, Landscapes, Various artists, Vienna 2024.
Rose Krenn, Cigar Cabinet, Vienna 1912, MAK Museum, Vienna 2024
I had the wonderful opportunity to join the Winter School Program at the University of Vienna. It turned out to be an incredible mix of learning and cultural exploration. The courses offered were engaging, led by lecturers who were truly passionate about their subjects and always ready to help.
Exploring Vienna's Rich Culture
One of the best parts of the program was visiting some of Vienna's most famous cultural sites, like the stunning Schönbrunn Palace. These visits gave us a deeper understanding of Vienna's historical and cultural significance.
The program's focus was on Vienna's fin de siècle period, highlighting the city's vibrant art scene and its lasting impact. The blend of classroom learning and exploring Vienna firsthand made the experience truly special.
Learning from Experts
My first course, led by Dr. Elana Shapira, explored design, performance, and media in modern Vienna. We even visited the MAK museum, where we saw historical pieces that brought our lessons to life.
In the second course, taught by Prof. Monika Schwärzler-Brodesser, we delved into the works of artists like Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. A trip to the Leopold Museum allowed us to see the art we'd discussed in class, making everything feel more real. During our visit to the Leopold Museum, we got to see the artworks we had discussed in class up close. This made the art truly come to life and provided a unique, hands-on experience. Analyzing the art pieces together and choosing our personal favorites from the room was not only enjoyable but also sparked interesting conversations and insights among us.ראש הטופס
We also had free time to explore Vienna on our own, visiting places like the famous Prater Park and even taking a quick trip to Slovakia, all thanks to great tips from our lecturers.
A Rewarding Experience
The Winter School Program was not just about academics; it was a chance to make new friends, learn in a unique setting, and create memories I'll always cherish. I'm so grateful for this experience and hopeful that I'll return to Vienna in the future.
Ravit Hai, Israel, 2024