The Symposium: a journey through art and culture in modernity.
In ancient Greece and Rome, the “symposium” represented more than a simple banquet: it was a moment of intellectual sharing and conviviality. Guests, led by the symposiarch, would devote themselves to drinking, singing poems, reciting poetry, and engaging in conversations that ranged across a wide range of topics. These gatherings were a true celebration of culture, an opportunity to exchange ideas and opinions in a festive and stimulating setting.
Today, we want to revive this tradition through a modern symposium dedicated to our Holden Middle School students, transforming art into a central topic of discussion. This meeting aims to delve deeper into the topic of art history, inviting students to express their opinions, share ideas, and develop critical thinking. It is not just a learning opportunity, but an enriching experience that combines culture and pleasure.
The second symposium will be held on Tuesday, May 6, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m., at the Amae Lounge Bar, located on Via Palazzo di Città, corner of Piazza Cavour.
This time, the theme will focus on works of art from the Early Renaissance to the High Renaissance, analyzing the distinctive features and recognizability of different artistic styles. We are thrilled to have art teacher Valentina Modesto, an architect, and art expert Monica Ferri as moderators, who will lead the seventh-grade students in an in-depth and engaging exploration of the topic.
In this context, we chose to hold the symposium outside of the classroom, in a downtown pastry shop. This choice is no coincidence: in addition to nourishing the mind, we also want to delight the palate of participants with a brioche and cappuccino, making the experience even more enjoyable and welcoming.
As part of the Shared School, a project the Pascal Institute has enthusiastically embraced for years, we would like to extend the invitation to the citizens of Chieri.
It is essential to involve the community in this process of cultural growth, making the symposium an open and accessible event, fostering dialogue and sharing.
We fondly remember the first symposium, held in April with the sixth-grade class, during which we discussed Greek and Roman temples, exploring architectural and cultural differences. The students also had the opportunity to build a 3D model of the Parthenon in Athens, an activity that stimulated their creativity and curiosity.
We invite our parents to participate in this second symposium, to share a moment of discussion and learning with their children and with us. Culture thrives on dialogue and exchange, and the symposium represents a precious opportunity to grow together, exploring the wonderful world of art.
We look forward to seeing you at Bar Lounge Amae, ready for an interesting morning of discussion, art, and good company!
