As part of the AP French Language and Culture curriculum, students researched and presented information on French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painters. Fortunately for Germantown Academy, one of the premier art collections in the world, The Barnes Foundation, is practically in our on backyard, on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. Seeing paintings by Matisse, Van Gogh, Picasso, Monet, Renoir, Seurat, Gauguin, and Manet allowed students to actually see the brush strokes, color, and techniques that painters used to create their masterpieces. What makes the Barnes experience so unique is the relationship between the paintings and the everyday objects that surround them and trying to determine why Dr. Barnes chose to display them together.

"I loved going to the Barnes. I think that learning about art and culture is only half of an educational experience. The other half (and, I would argue, the equally important half) is actually immersing ourselves in the art and culture that we learn about. You can hear about the life of Renoir, and see his original paintings. Seeing Renoir's paintings in person and seeing the details of his brushstrokes is an invaluable part of education." Sophie

"The Barnes Foundation is one of a kind and shows visitors a different side of art. The visit was also a great bonding experience for our class that has been taking French together since 6^th grade." Madison

"I loved our visit to the Barnes because I think it's so important to learn about French history and culture. There is a deep connection between the art in the Barnes and late 19^th century/early 20^th century French history. I love seeing the paintings we've studied in class come to life in person, and the arrangement of the paintings was something I found fascinating. I would definitely love to go back to the Barnes in the future." Caroline

"My favorite part about our trip to the Barnes was seeing the paintings up close that we had studied in class. It was also nice to enjoy ourselves at a French restaurant after reveling in beautiful French art." Sarah

"I really enjoyed our visit to the Barnes. I learned a lot about different styles of art like Impressionism and Cubism. It was great seeing the art, which was dynamic, beautiful and enthralling." Shreya