EMILY PRUSAKOWSKI
INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE | BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

During my time studying abroad, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in Italy’s rich architectural history through a sketching course that took me across several iconic cities. Our journey began in Rome, where we spent weeks wandering through ancient ruins, sketching the grandeur of the Colosseum, the intricate details of the Pantheon, and the layered history of the Roman Forum. With every sketch, I gained a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and engineering that shaped these historic structures. Studying the way Rome’s architecture evolved, from the classical Roman era to the Renaissance, helped me understand how history and culture influence design over time.

Beyond Rome, we traveled to Venice, a city defined by its canals, Gothic facades, and unique urban fabric.
Our exploration continued in a number of other Italian cities such as Sorrento and Pompeii, where we delved into Italy’s coastal and ancient histories. Pompeii offered a glimpse into the past like no other, walking through its well-preserved ruins and sketching the remnants of daily life from nearly two thousand years ago was both surreal and inspiring. Learning about the city's tragic yet fascinating history deepened my understanding of how architecture can serve as a time capsule, preserving the essence of an era long gone.

This study abroad experience not only refined my sketching skills but also enriched my perspective on architectural storytelling. Each city had its own distinct character, shaped by time, culture, and geography. By observing, studying, and drawing these spaces firsthand, I gained a newfound appreciation for how architecture serves as a bridge between the past and the present which is why I have chosen to include a selection of my sketches from my time abroad.