"Art & Experience in Medici Florence" came to an official close this morning, though I imagine it will have an ongoing and powerful impact on all of us - students, professor, staff and, perhaps most of all, Simcha, the proprietor of Ruth's Kosher Restaurant, who looked positively heartbroken to see the students leave after dinner last night. This past week's presentations and visits to the former convent of San Apollonia, the monastery of San Marco, the Accademia and the Medici Chapel were especial highlights. I cannot recall more sensitive and vibrant discussions in front of art, with intelligent, passionate and wide-ranging exchanges. Students reacted eloquently not only to the paintings, sculpture and architecture they saw but were able to contextualize the work within the framework of the Renaissance and its themes. Not easy going and very uncommon. Their insight into the "unfinished" character of much of Michelangelo's later work was sharp, sensitive and riveting to behold. Meanwhile, as they head back toward Israel, New York and, in a few cases, other spots in Italy, our first group reunion is already in the planning stages. Arrivederci!