Newport Summer School

May 31 – June 9, 2024

Join renowned architectural historian Richard Guy Wilson to experience and study four centuries of architecture, art, culture, and landscape at the acclaimed Newport Summer School. This ten-day program is based in Newport, Rhode Island, the “Queen” of American resorts. You will enjoy lectures by Richard Guy Wilson and other leading scholars, tours of private homes, and opportunities to get behind the scenes at some of America’s grandest mansions.

Participants will examine Newport’s most iconic sites: Richard Morris Hunt’s Marble House, The Breakers, and Ochre Court; Richard Upjohn’s Kingscote, and H.H. Richardson’s Sherman House. Additional highlights include McKim, Mead & White’s Isaac Bell House and downtown casino, as well as historic gardens, churches, and opportunities to view Tiffany windows and paintings by leading American artists. Field trips include visits to Providence, RI and North Easton, MA. Participants are housed in Ochre Lodge at Salve Regina University, designed by local architect Dudley Newton in 1890.

Course Director: Richard Guy Wilson

Assistant Director: Edward R. Bosley

Past lecturers include Jennifer Carlquist, Pauline C. Metcalf, Paul Miller, Ron Onorato, Laurie Ossman, Pieter Roos, and John Tschirch

Tuition for the Newport Summer School is $3,500* and includes expert instruction, course materials, 9 nights’ shared dormitory-style accommodation, entrance fees, receptions, and some meals (kitchen facilities are on site; many dining options nearby). Full and partial scholarships are available. The VSA will continue to require relevant proof of COVID vaccinations and boosters for all participants. Please email Anne Mallek, Summer Schools Administrator, at Admin@VSASummerSchools.org, with any additional questions.

* Self-paying (non-scholarship) applicants not wishing to stay in the dormitory are welcome to arrange alternate accommodations at their own expense and will be refunded the cost of the dorm. This is with the understanding that they must show up at the appointed time and place each day.

 

“The experience of the VSA Newport Summer School was very beneficial to the understanding of late 19th century architecture, aesthetics, and culture. The knowledge and access gained during this course was especially useful, as I began research for my PhD dissertation” – Elizabeth A. Williams, David and Peggy Rockefeller Curator of Decortive Arts and Design, RISD (Newport 2009)

How to Apply

All applications require a $50 application fee. This non-refundable fee can be paid online or by mailing a check or money order to the address below. You will also need one letter of recommendation from an academic or professional contact. Letters should include your full name, qualifications, current work, and how you might benefit from the program. Letters should be e-mailed or mailed directly from the author on letterhead. Successful candidates, including scholarship recipients, must pay a tuition deposit of $400. Deposits are non-refundable and not covered by scholarships. 

Scholarship

Thanks to generous support from the Victorian Society Summer Schools Alumni Association, The Victorian Society Scholarship Fund, VSA chapters, and other organizations and individuals, a limited number of scholarships are available to qualified applicants. Awards are based on merit and financial need. A second recommendation letter describing your financial need is also required. This letter should be written by a different author from your general application letter and must describe your specific financial circumstances. Letters should be e-mailed or mailed directly from the author on letterhead. We also ask for a copy of your 2023 Federal Tax Return. Scholarships applications are now closed for 2024.

Apply Now!