Andy Volpe: Art & History – Andy is a Living Historian and Fine Artist in the Central Massachusetts area. Best known for his Roman Legionary presentation, which he designed and developed in 2001 at the former Higgins Armory Museum (now part of Worcester Art Museum, where he still presents); and has been bringing to area schools, colleges, libraries and museums since 2004. The Roman program incorporates STEAM/STEM, Archaeology/Experimental Archaeology, Epigraphy, Historical research and reconstruction aspects, with replicas of archaeological artifacts (and even some actual artifacts) that students have a chance to handle/try-on. The program gives a brief synopsis of the Roman soldier in the 1st Century AD/CE, arms & armor, combat and daily life; parallels (Massachusetts) Curriculum topics.

He also offers programs on the “Old Master” Artists of Europe and early Colonial America and their techniques with a powerpoint presentation and/or a live demonstration, which can be made into a hands-on workshop. Techniques offered are Metalpoint, pen/quill, and chalk drawing (1200s-1600s), and Intaglio Printmaking [engraving, etching, drypoint, 1450s - 1800). There is an option for Andy to bring a portable printing press and print “live” with student participation. Advanced notice and planning is needed. Artists discussed include Cennini, Vasari, Durer, Da Vinci, Goltzius, Rembrandt, Piranesi, Revere, to name a few. In development is a Colonial/Revolutionary War period view of the works of Revere and others and how it impacted Massachusetts and the British Colonies. Curriculum topics incorporate Art/Fine Arts, Art History, Art Appreciation, History, Archaeology, Historical Research. Not only does Andy research the techniques of the Old Masters, utilizing surviving instructional treatises, he also uses the very same techniques in his own artwork.

Andy is also available for general Artist workshops in drawing, fine arts/studio arts, and in art history/art appreciation.

Geographical areas covered are Southern New England, but can travel up to apx 130 miles from Worcester area, Massachusetts, but he is certainly open to discussion on further distances, etc.