Welcome to Accademia Riaci

The rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship and the flourishing arts in Tuscany, particularly in Florence, venerates the Renaissance era as the true gem of artistic brilliance. The city’s production activities thrived through the workshops and studios of skilled craftsmen, propelling Florence to its status as Italy’s artistic capital during that epoch. The synergy between craftsmen and merchants resulted in the city’s glory and immense fortune.

These craftsmen, often goldsmiths, produced magnificent artistic objects for baptisteries in their studios. Maestro Benvenuto Cellini, an exemplary figure, imparted his superior sculpting techniques for marble statues to his apprentices. The crafts commissioned by Maestro Cellini have endured for centuries as masterpieces of art, embodying the enduring legacy of Florence’s rich traditions in craftsmanship, including gold and jewelry production, sculpture, and painting.

In 1983, Maestro Raymond Riaci founded Accademia Riaci with a compelling vision. His goal was not only to teach artistic techniques but also to imbue young artists with the lively spirit and atmosphere of the Renaissance. Accademia Riaci became a treasure trove of traditional art and irreplaceable techniques. The academy’s teachings, enriched with techniques unique to its curriculum, aim to foster imagination and fantasy in each student.

What began as a modest art studio has evolved into a vibrant institution, with a passionate team of teachers, representing the best Italian artists in Florence. The academy remains committed to the founder and Honorary President’s vision of tradition and spirit. With a diverse student body from over 50 countries, Accademia Riaci inspires individuals in the fields of Design, Crafts, Fine Arts, Italian Language, and Italian Culinary Arts, carrying forth the legacy of artistic pursuit and global inspiration.

Mission – “Live the past, create the future”
The core objective of Accademia Riaci’s educational philosophy extends beyond merely imparting traditional techniques and styles. Our ultimate goal is to guide students in cultivating their artistic sensitivity, nurturing creativity, and unlocking their full potential.

Embracing a spectrum from traditional to ultra-modern techniques
At Accademia Riaci, students have the freedom to choose from a diverse array of traditional and contemporary arts disciplines. In contrast to prevailing trends in mass production, our philosophy prioritizes quality over quantity. This is reflected in our approach, where students delve into the intricacies of traditional and classical arts alongside the latest in design and techniques. Through extensive hands-on training in their chosen majors, students acquire a comprehensive skill set. Our emphasis extends beyond technical proficiency to the cultivation of imagination and fantasy – the most cherished elements of an artist’s repertoire. Professors not only impart knowledge but also play a crucial role in guiding students to rediscover the unique essence within each budding artist, nurturing their originality and inspiring their creative journey.

Small Class Sizes
Research consistently demonstrates that students in small groups tend to experience enhanced learning outcomes and express higher satisfaction with their classes. Lower class sizes have been correlated with positive educational advantages, including improved test scores, reduced dropout rates, and increased graduation rates. Recognizing the significance of these benefits, Accademia Riaci intentionally organizes classes into small groups, ensuring a more focused, interactive, and enriching educational environment for our students.

Tailored Instruction
Much like the pedagogical approach of Leonardo Da Vinci with his assistants, our lessons at Accademia Riaci are tailored to establish a close rapport with each student, aligning with their unique abilities and personalities. This personalized approach challenges both beginners and seasoned professionals, fostering an environment where each individual can thrive and expand their artistic horizons.