Hear what some of our previous students have to say about their experience with all of us. Many of them have successfully pursued credit transfers or obtained independent accreditation, using the knowledge and skills they acquired under the guidance of members of our faculty.
Testimonials
William Krueger
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
The University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, School of Architecture and Urban Planning's Historic Preservation Institute (UWM-SARUP HPI) has the ongoing privilege of collaborating with internationally renowned restorer and conservator Nikolas Vakalis. As an esteemed Adjunct Professor, Nikolas brings his exceptional expertise, knowledge, and passion for conservation, restoration, and preservation to our students and faculty.
Nikolas's outstanding works in the field have made him an invaluable asset as an instructor and lecturer. Through his world-class experiences, he continuously provides our students and faculty with a deep understanding of the possibilities and rewards within this chosen discipline. We cannot express enough gratitude for the opportunity to learn from and work alongside Nikolas Vakalis—the best of the best.
From 1999 to 2008, Nikolas served as an Adjunct Professor at UWM-SARUP HPI, sharing his wisdom and guidance with our academic community. In April 2002, he conducted a highly successful workshop on the traditional technique of fresco painting (Roman, Byzantine, Renaissance) as part of the "Historic Preservation Architecture Week" held by UWM-SARUP HPI. Additionally, from October 2005 to February 2006, Nikolas played a pivotal role in coordinating the restoration project of Frank Lloyd Wright's American System Built Home (FLW-ASBH). This prestigious project was accomplished within a workshop involving students and faculty from UWM-SARUP HPI.
Even in recent years, Nikolas Vakalis continues to contribute significantly to our institution as a guest lecturer. In November 2015, he returned to share his expertise with our students, further enriching our academic programs. In April 2016, we had the privilege of hosting Nikolas for a presentation and recognition ceremony for his outstanding conservation and restoration work on the FLW-ASBH Model B1—a collaborative effort organized by UWM-SARUP HPI and the Frank Lloyd Wright-Wisconsin Association on the momentous occasion of the model's 100th anniversary.
We are extremely proud to have Nikolas Vakalis as an ongoing collaborator with the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. His dedication and accomplishments in the realm of conservation continue to inspire and elevate our institution. We look forward to a continued partnership, benefiting our students, faculty, and the field as a whole.
Alexandra Ayoob
West Virginia Univercity
I can’t recommend Nikos and Sotiris enough. Not only did Nikos use his immense experience to guide me in hands on conservation work, but he built an environment of warmth and support so that none of us would feel intimidated while working in such a culturally rich domain. I quickly felt at home thanks to his encouragement and Sotiris’ organizational expertise. If you are reading this, you probably have an inkling that the people in conservation are interesting. I am writing to say that your expectations will be exceeded when it comes to these guys. I cannot speak enough to just how enlightening being around these interdisciplinary experts was. They are geologists, chemists, historians, and artists all in one. Every encounter with the team is both familial and a learning experience. My heart is full as I think back to my time with Sotiris and Nikos. I myself hope to continue learning with them one day. Overall my time with them was unforgettable and I couldn’t recommend more.
Andie Fialkoff
Columbia University
In the summer of 2022, I had the pleasure of being one of many students while completing a restoration project in the historical archives in Umbria. Nikolas served as an educator and mentor for me and countless other students, expanding our knowledge base while Sotiris ensured our comfort and ease during our month-long stay in the Umbrian village. At the time of participation, I was a Master’s student completing a dual degree program between Columbia University and the Sorbonne, where I studied medieval Art History with a specialization in manuscript studies. I greatly deepened my knowledge of medieval books and manuscripts and gained hands-on access to objects that ultimately played a pivotal role in the formation of my thesis. The opportunity to learn about a certain material or historical handwriting in the classroom, and then venture next door to feel such materials and see the various historical handwriting, is one both special and rare. I am very grateful to have studied with them and am thankful for their continued support as I’ve transitioned into a career in the art market.
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Annabel Dobbyn
Oberlin College
My time learning from my experience with Sotiris and Nikos has been invaluable.
I went into the program with no knowledge of conservation or technical skills and left with the capability to receive a job offer in the field of conservation right after college.
Their dedication to not only their students education but their general well-being and happiness is truly admirable.
Kyla Anderson
Arizona State University
Enrolling in the ARCIFS summer program was a dream come true for me. As an art student, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn about restoration in the heart of Italy. From the moment I received the email from my college's art department, I knew this was an experience I couldn't miss.
The program exceeded my expectations in every way. The classes were engaging, and the professors and visiting artists were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their work. The hands-on approach to learning, combined with the field trips to museums, allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the restoration process and the materials used.
One of the most memorable aspects of the program was the interaction with the professors and visiting artists. Their enthusiasm for their craft was contagious, and their guidance and support throughout the projects were invaluable. As a teacher myself, I appreciated their ability to keep us engaged and motivated.
The ARCIFS summer program has reaffirmed my desire to pursue a degree in Restoration and continue my education in Art History. The experience has given me a sense of excitement and confidence about my future career path.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone interested in restoration or looking to immerse themselves in the local culture while gaining hands-on experience. It has been an amazing journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it. I hope to have the chance to participate in this program again in the future.
Claire Moeller
University of Arizona
The ARCIFS summer program is an experience I will never forget. I feel so lucky to have been able to meet people from all over the world. I was impressed with the program directors Nikos and Sotiris and all of the opportunities they gave us. They are very well connected experts in the field of restoration. I cannot say enough good things about this program. One memory I especially cherish was being able to see some of the restoration labs at the Vatican Museum. ARCIFS allowed me to get out of my comfort zone. Not only did I learn about restoration but I also learned a lot about myself while being immersed in a culture I was unfamiliar with. I felt welcomed by all in the program and found this trip very valuable to my education in architecture. Overall, I had a great experience and I am forever grateful for my time with ARCIFS.
Jennifer Dantchev
Long Island University
I had the privilege to participate in the “Preserving our Past: Paper Conservation for Art and Archives” of ARCIFS in the summer of 2024. It was a wonderful experience that I will always cherish. The instructors and staff were so helpful and knowledgeable, the content was informative and valuable, and the community in Amelia was so welcoming. The skills I gained from the program will be invaluable to my career path in library science and archives. But you do not have to be involved in a field related to conservation to participate – the student body represented a diverse range of people from around the world, both in interest and identity. It was fun to meet people and share our stories while learning and participating in a great variety of lectures and activities related to paper conservation. My only disappointment is the fact I cannot attend again next year!
Taryn McMillen
California State University
Over the summer of 2024, I had the absolute pleasure of participating in AICS under the painting course. Nikos was an excellent instructor and mentor who gave meaningful lectures and effective instruction for the hands-on portion of the class. I also appreciated the in-depth lectures given by Alberto on the history and current procedures of conservation, they were very beneficial for someone interested in going into the conservation field. In addition, we got to meet and hear valuable lectures from visiting conservators. As for the program as a whole, I cannot recommend AICS enough. Sotirios was so focused on us students’ comfort and happiness, and I felt so reassured throughout the duration of the program, even though I was in a city where I wasn’t confident in the language. Some of the highlights of the program were the excursions to other Italian cities, and also being with other students with similar interests and goals, I made some great lifelong friends through AICS! I completely recommend this program for anyone looking to learn and grow their skills in conservation, especially in the wonderful town of Amelia!
Emanuela Grifoni
Professor, University of Milan
Prof. Vakalis's courses played an essential role in shaping my professional trajectory: through
his teachings, I acquired a robust understanding of materials, artistic techniques, and restoration, proving instrumental in my current role in Research and Heritage Science. Initially as student, then as his assistant for over six years, our connection evolved into a fruitful collaboration and genuine friendship.
Sotiris' remarkable efficiency not only contributed to the organization and direction of the School, but also fostered the formation of a network of specialists whom I had the pleasure of meeting again in Academia.
Yasmine El Majzoub
American University of Beirut
It is one of the experiences I look back at with so much fondness and gratitude. Not only was an enriching learning experience, but it was also a profound cultural, social, and human one.
Nikos's passion, enthusiasm, dedication and immense knowledge have been truly inspirational and have had a great impact on my career. It was after this experience, that I decided to pursue a career in architectural restoration.
Apart from the technical knowledge, Nikos and Sotiris were so welcoming and loving. They constantly made sure that all the students' needs were being met and that everyone was happy and comfortable. The most beautiful thing I took out of this experience is a wonderful friendship with Nikos and Sotiris that I hope lasts a lifetime.
Their future students who will enroll in the new conservation school will be very lucky to have such mentors.
No matter what I say, I cannot express how grateful and joyous I am to have had the chance to meet these two wonderful souls. They have been a true inspiration and are the embodiment of such a big warm and loving heart.
Ara Hernandez
University of California Irvine
Studying conservation in Umbria alongside Sotirios and Nikos during the summer of 2022, was a pivotal experience for me. It marked my initial solo travel, and their support and effort to ensure my comfort greatly enhanced my experience. Their expertise and enthusiasm were truly inspiring. I feel immensely thankful for the opportunity to participate in a conservation program under their guidance, making my learning journey more fulfilling. This enriching experience has solidified my decision to further pursue art conservation. Their guidance and mentorship were not only instrumental in deepening my understanding of conservation but also in fostering my passion for the field. I would wholeheartedly recommend collaborating with them to anyone aspiring art conservation.
Begoña Pérez-Salvatierra Saavedra
Universidad de La Laguna
I had the pleasure of enrolling in the Paper Conservation and Restoration program at the Amelia International Conservation Studies last summer, and I must say it was a month filled with happy endings every day. As a restorer, I was already familiar with some of the concepts, but even so, there wasn't a single day that I went to sleep without having learned something new. The instructors are real professionals and you can see it in the way they teach and work. They were always available to help and give you extra information or advice. After completing the course, I can confidently say that I have made new friends from all over the world, connections that will last a lifetime. I wholeheartedly recommend these courses at Amelia International Conservation Studies, where you can immerse yourself in Italian culture, acquire professional skills, and share both professional and personal experiences in a unique and enriching way.
Margaret McCormack
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
My experience with the Art Restoration and Conservation International Field School was wonderful. Sotirios and Nikolas always worked hard to make everyone feel comfortable and to have the best experience they could. The city of Amelia was a hidden gem in the countryside, with amazing views, food and people. The classes were informative and interesting, with professors that had years of experience in their fields. It was apparent that passing down this knowledge was important to them, they genuinely wanted you to learn and internalize the information. The immersion into Italian culture was a once in a lifetime experience. The opportunities to get to know the country on your own or with others from the program was amazing. Sotirios was always willing to help facilitate extracurricular excursions to nearby cities or towns, and encouraged us to get to know Italy better. Overall, I would highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to learn about the important field of conservation with the added bonus of a great summer in Italy.
Attending the "Experiencing Traditional Painting Methods and Restoration Issues - in the Workshop of a Maestro" at Amelia International Conservation Studies was an unforgettable experience. The hands-on approach allowed me to immerse into traditional techniques like gilding, frescoes, and the nuances of tempera and oil painting. The instructors were knowledgeable and approachable, making every lesson engaging. Amelia, Italy, with its awe-inspiring historical landmarks, felt like stepping back in time—an atmosphere that enriched the entire experience.The course not only covered the technical aspects of restoration but also emphasized the ethics of conservation and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The guest lectures were a fantastic addition, offering a diverse range of perspectives that deepened my understanding of the field. A highlight for me was the behind-the-scenes tours of renowned institutions such as the Vatican Conservation Lab and Palazzo Massimo. These trips brought theory to life and gave me a deeper appreciation for the work behind preserving priceless art. I highly recommend this program to anyone passionate about art, history, and conservation.
Adam McGowan
Pratt Institute
Avery Soupios
Rutgers University
I studied in Umbria with Sotiris and Nikos in the summer of 2022, and loved every bit of my experience. Sotiris ensured I and other students were comfortable and felt welcome throughout my program. Both his and Nikos’ knowledge of heritage created an extraordinary experience where I was able to gain skills in restoration while learning the extensive history of Italian pottery production. I cannot recommend this program enough to students interested in developing a career in heritage protection and conservation.
Simeone Colucci
Academy of Fine Arts in Naples
A few years ago I had the pleasure to attend a conservation summer school, led by the professor and restorer Nikolas Vakalis. As a student in his course, I found the experience to be excellent. His clear explanations and precise theoretical sessions were satisfying, while the practical aspect was particularly captivating as we worked on a significant historic building in Umbria. Under Nikolas Vakalis' guidance, we engaged in a variety of operations crucial for the successful restoration intervention. Sotiris Kourtesis efficiently managed the administrative side of the courses, always attentive to students' requests. The summer school marked a significant step in my professional and personal development. I highly recommend this experience to all students studying monument conservation. Nikolas Vakalis and Sotiris Kourtesis are not only highly competent professionals but also incredibly approachable and friendly individuals. Spending time with them was not only educational but also genuinely enjoyable. Their warmth and availability make the learning experience all the more pleasant.
Elizabeth Currier
Ripon College
I met Sotiris and Nikos through studying at a previous summer preservation studies course. Their comprehensive knowledge of and passion for the field was a source of great inspiration and admiration for me. Overall, I came away from the program with an overwhelmingly positive experience and an abundance of fond memories. I believe they are excellent teachers and role models and it was an absolute pleasure to work with them and study under them.
I cannot recommend their skills enough as professionals in the conservation and restoration field!
Ben Knox
University College, London
Sotiris and Nikos are excellent teachers and create a wonderful learning environment.
I thoroughly enjoyed studying with them in the past and hope to work with them in the future.
Pamela Kanekoa
University of Hawaii
Enrolling in the ARCIFS summer program was an easy decision for me. Having been familiar with Professor Vakalis' work and reputation, and having met Mr. Sotiris Kourtesis 10 years ago through a friend who attended one of their previous programs, I knew the experience would be valuable and worthwhile.
As a special education teacher, I took the Paper Program this summer, and it has been incredibly beneficial. Despite not being a student of conservation and restoration, the content, practical hands-on activities, and the opportunity to apply the theory we learned in the first half of the day to real documents and artifacts have been immensely rewarding. This satisfying and beneficial learning experience has even inspired me to consider exploring this field further.
One of the most memorable highlights of my time at ARCIFS was the hands-on work we did in class. Using our own tool kits and working on actual artifacts from our host town of Amelia was a truly unique and enjoyable experience. The field trips were also a great addition to the program.
As an established teacher with a Master's degree in special education, my next step would be to return and take another course next summer for my own enjoyment. The program has reignited my passion for learning and exploring new fields.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone considering a career in conservation and restoration, currently pursuing coursework as a conservator or archivist, or simply looking for an experiential learning experience in Europe. In fact, I have already started thinking about returning next summer to take the stone course with my niece, who is an accountant. The ARCIFS summer program is truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity.
Keyang Xie
Sarah Lawrence College
All my time spent with ARCIFS-AICS has been truly unforgettable. Not only it did provide me with a fantastic hands-on opportunity in artifact restoration, but it also left me with cherished memories of a beautiful Italian summer.
I would especially like to thank Sotirios for his constant care and support throughout the program. His dedication and willingness to help us at every turn made the experience all the more special.
Kayla Gertner
University of Texas at Austin
I feel so grateful to have participated in ARCIFS the summer of 2024, it was a great opportunity for my professional development in the field of art conservation as well as my own personal growth that comes with immersion in a new environment and culture. I was part of the paper conservation program where I learned practical conservation skills under the instruction of amazing professionals in the field. Because of the generosity of the Amelia archives we were able to interact with actual historic documents and it was a pleasure to give back to the community by caring for the collection. The community we created of students and professors was equally memorable and integral to the program. I believe anyone interested in learning about art would gain from this experience!
Sydney Kysar
University of California, Los Angeles
Over the month that I attended ARCIFS, I painted frescoes, created oil and tempera paints from scratch, learned how to guild, and along the way learned the ethics and chemistry of painting conservation. The class shaped how I approach my final year of grad school and made me less afraid of chemistry. The teachers and guest lectures were incredible, and the fact I got to take these classes in the beautiful city of Amelia made it the best summer ever. Thank you!!
Elio Moussa
American University of Beirut
Great overall experience. The program was very well structured, perfectly balanced between theory and practice (to the point where you can't get enough of any of both aspects). The long years of experience and expertise of Professor Nikolas Vakalis really shine through the interactive lectures and the minute walk through of the preservation process.
Sotiris Kourtesis as a program manager, ensured the smooth functioning of the program and provided valuable support throughout.
I personally felt great joy in taking part of this course, it has widened my understanding on the various topics of preservation, as well as it has given me a new outlook on my professional development and how it might turn out later on.
This program does not simply stop at the academic level but also develops deeper into meaningful interpersonal relationships between students, professors such as Professor Nikolas Vakalis, and among peers. I highly recommend this program for its enlightening insight and high quality in delivering information as well as passion.
Lucy Farren
University College, London
Studying under Nikos and Sotiris was an absolute pleasure and I would highly recommend their courses to anyone looking to study conservation. It was clear that both the quality of the courses and student life were of equal importance to them and the running of the school which was what made attending so enjoyable. I would go back if I could!
Bronson Williams-Shaw
Arizona State University
My time with the ARCIFS in Amelia Italy however brief, was an incredible experience that has only heightened my appreciation for art History and Conservation. Professor Vakalis and Mr. Kourtesis were a wealth of knowledge, cultural insight, and just plain good people. Being able to work hands on with traditional materials gave me great pride as an artist and I will remember that experience for the rest of my life.
Emilia Luders
Oxford Brookes University
The month I spent in the charming city of Amelia was an invaluable experience. Mornings were spent being taught by guest lecturers from the world of conservation and the afternoons are spent learning the techniques of the Renaissance Masters, from fresco to sgraffito. Nikolas is an incredible teacher, whilst his team are beyond helpful with the practical’s, being extremely patient with those of us who have little to no art experience! The whole of the AICS team is incredibly welcoming and from the moment you arrive in Amelia you immediately feel at home with Sotirios and Nikolas enthusiastically welcoming you with open arms. The residents of Amelia are extremely accommodating to the students, and it is easy to settle into the Italian way of life. I have learnt so much from the AICS team and will take my new skills and knowledge forward into my further studies and have left with lifelong connections and a newfound enthusiasm for conservation.
Becca Napollitano
Professor, Penn State University
I had the privilege of taking a summer course with Nikos during my time as a Ph.D. student in Civil Engineering at Princeton, and I can confidently say that it was a transformative experience that has had a lasting impact on my academic and professional journey in historic structures research. One of the standout qualities of Nikos as an instructor was his exceptional patience and dedication to ensuring that every student grasped the intricacies of the subject matter. He recognized that the topic we were delving into was not just theoretical but had profound practical implications, and he made it his mission to make sure we not only understood the concepts but could also apply them effectively. Additionally, instead of merely lecturing us, he encouraged active participation and guided us through practical exercises that allowed us to witness the principles of materials conservation in action. This experiential learning approach made a world of difference in our comprehension of the subject matter, and I still find myself benefiting from those hands-on lessons in my current role as a professor.
Keira Cormack
Robert Gordan University
I decided to enroll in the Amelia International Conservation School to expand my skill set in an area of my artistic practice that primarily focuses on paper. As a contemporary artist, I never had the opportunity to learn about the longevity of my work. The knowledge of material choice provides instrumental context to artwork and to an artist, whether they choose to use materials that will last a long or short time. Additionally, I have always been inspired by science in my own artwork, and I feel this path could lead to bringing my two passions together: art and science.
The most useful knowledge I gained from the program is how to store artwork and books to preserve information and how to safely display work in galleries and museums. This skill is invaluable and transferable to many roles in the creative sector I want to work in. The program provides a great introduction to conservation, inspiring further educational journeys in this field.
The highlight of my trip was being trusted to work on Amelia's history. All the documents we were given from the archive of Amelia to put our knowledge into practice are so rich in history, and this honor is something I will never forget.
This program has helped me realize conservation as a potential career path and will provide a wonderful experience to write about in my applications to postgraduate programs for museum studies, blending my two strong passions for art and science.
I would absolutely recommend this program! The Amelia International Conservation Studies Program not only gave me a taste of conservation but also an experience of a lifetime, learning from experts in the field and enjoying the rich culture of Amelia. The people of Amelia are so welcoming and kind; you can't help but fall in love with this small city. This program caters to all skill levels in conservation and does an excellent job of keeping learning interesting, fun, and hands-on. I would recommend this not only to people who are interested in conservation but also to artists who want to gain a different perspective on art, especially after it leaves their studios, to foster new inspiration.