As we continue settling into the spring semester, take a look back at student Jay Mascardo’s January study-away experience: Social Life of Art in Iceland and Norway! “My favorite experience abroad was seeing a wide range of art, from fine art to folk art, and seeing how the environment and scenery influenced it. It was interesting how important art has been even in times when survival was most important. While art was not necessarily seen as a necessity in a practical sense, it is and remains essential in everyday life. In Iceland and Norway, art is highly valued and appreciated. Many art projects, such as murals and art museums, are funded and supported by the city, thereby given the resources to be noticed and to flourish. As an artist, this experience was incredibly inspiring and has encouraged me to really hone my craft and push myself to be more experimental and open to new mediums and artistic choices.” -Jay Mascardo 27’