Golf and art? Besides recognizing the “art” of developing a good swing in the sport itself, most Academy students have not thought of golf as a topic for the fine arts.

Thanks to a field trip to the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in St. Petersburg on January 7, students in French classes and in the French Honor Society had the opportunity to view the “Art of Golf” which will run through February 17.  This special exhibit provides a visual history of golf from its origins and features 90 works by Rembrandt van Rijn, Hendrick Avercamp, Sir Henry Raeburn, Childe Hassam, George Bellows, Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, and the celebrated photographer Harold Edgerton.

Interesting, and sometimes amusing, aspects of the game provided interesting history trivia such as the only sport allowed on Sunday was archery. One artist made light of this rule when he painted two men playing golf during a sermon with the priest overlooking them.

Senior Felicia Nelson was a big fan of the exhibit. “I had no idea there were so many works of art dedicated to golf!”

This yearly French Club field trip was a first for some students. They were enamored with the variety of art on display from Asian Art sculptures, porcelain, and ceramics to Impressionists artists such as Monet.

Junior Kristina Kennedy found that besides the art, the lunch at Cassis American Brasserie  – complete with a three-course meal of soup, sandwich, and crème brulee – was a delightful part of the day.  “Eating authentic French food is not a common experience for me.  I am thankful to have had this experience, especially with my Academy sisters.”

After strolling by the shops along the street near the museum, the French girls gathered by a large tree by the museum for the traditional group picture, creating a tree full of Academy sisters who share a love of French language and culture and enjoyed a wonderful field.

Chaperones for the trip included French teacher Mrs. Clara Sager,  Guidance Counselors Ms. Kerry Keegan and Mrs. Darcy Dwyer, and Principal Mrs. Camille Jowanna.