During the first week of study at Southridge, the creative expressionists were introduced to the concept of the course and given lessons in visual art and writing techniques that they would be using in their journals during their time in France and beyond. 

Creative expressionists explored ideas about writing, art, and travel.  They researched major art and writing movements and became familiar with The Louvre, The Orsay, and The Pompidou: museums they would be visiting in Paris.

Students were responsible for researching one major creative expressionist from history and one location or item of cultural significance that they would be visiting during their time in France.

Artistic materials were distributed and students began work on their creative journals.  The journals are a major component of the course and students are expected to have them completely filled with their creative images and words by the October showing.

Students read, discussed ideas, and worked on their journals indoors and "en pleine air."

With additional time spent learning basic skills for France, such as using the metro or ordering mussels at a restaurant, the students were ready for their grand adventure!