Here's what our students have to say about the Island Center Study Abroad Art Programs:

"Not only a rich painting experience with a wonderful teacher - but a great opportunity to meet the Greeks and learn about their culture. The program more than fulfilled my expectations, especially with lectures on Greek culture, meeting friends and being treated like your personal guests. The program was brilliant and you went out of your way to be helpful. I had a great instructor; very encouraging and open and I learned a lot. The painting sites were fabulous. I loved my room - lots of good painting sites even from my terrace - it was sheer heaven! Thank you for a wonderful experience!" Pam


"It was an outstanding trip and cultural experience; I knew it would be fun but I never imagined how rewarding this program would be! I was delighted with Greece; the beauty of the country and the hospitality of the Greeks. I loved the painting sessions in the morning and critiques in the evening. Plenty of helpful informative handouts and maps and an excellent balance between painting, cultural events and camaraderie.  My accommodations overlooking the sea were perfect - easy access to the village and class meetings. I would do this again in a heartbeat!" Tom M.


"The program was full of joy and humor with a great group of people - and inspirational for my art. The program structure was just right and our instructor, Elizabeth, was magnificent helping us get started . She lead us all the way and made us feel we had greatly moved forward. I loved the cultural workshops and Athens was great fun. I don't want to leave this paradise!" Barbara


"It was a challenging and magical experience that was rich and full of surprises! Our instructor, Tom Dempsey was accessible for all the input and aesthetic advice we needed and was always sure to point out the best aspects of our work. The cultural workshops were an added feature that helped to truly understand Greece. Travel arrangements and preparations were great. I could not have imagined a more beautiful site for the program! Tom and Isabel were wonderful hosts. Thank you for everything!" Emily

"This program allowed me to step outside the norm and make art from a new perspective. The instruction was wonderful with a lot of individual attention that really helped me focus and work in the direction I wanted. Everything was superb! Thank you!" Courtney

"The program definitely contributed to my development as an artist. Our instructor, Tom, was able to tune into the artistic needs of each of us and offer support, suggestion, prodding or understanding. The field trips were a fabulous part of the program, providing cultural understanding, a change of work pace and visual and aesthetic experiences. Cultural workshops were outstanding; Isabel is an enthralling story teller and wonderful teacher who imbued us with her passion. Tom and Isabel were wonderful - generous with their time and interest in every participant. The program was extremely well run and they made everyone feel secure and at home. It was all great fun and a tremendous artistic experience!" Sherry A.

 "It was a fabulous experience! It exceeded all my expectations. Our instructor was available and supportive whenever we needed him and his enthusiasm was a great motivator. The cultural workshops were  great. Lots of interesting info to frame the entire experience. Field trips were wonderful - Athens steeped in history, incredible sites and Skopelos -white, brilliant color, blues of the Aegean and exquisite village architecture. Our apartment was so comfortable and our Greek hostess went out of her way to make us feel at home and welcome - the exquisite views of the Aegean were a priceless perk!" Diana

"This has been a wonderful experience, full of new ideas, new techniques, all enhanced by the beautiful surroundings. The program surpassed my expectations, the instruction was good, the mix of people was good and the level of motivation was high. The cultural workshops were a great addition to the program and the field trips were a real high point for me. I'll never forget it!" Irene

"The entire trip was delightful. The program was well organized and each painter received excellent comments and instruction at each enchanting location. My room was perfect - I loved the balcony overlooking the pool. Isabel and Tom were so helpful, supportive available and always ready with a smile!"  Pat