JOHN WILLIAM BAILLY
email: baillyj@fiu.edu
instagram: johnwbailly
John Bailly is both a Destination and a Special Interest speaker. To book John please contact Blackburn International
Discover below the lectures John has to offer, from detailed destination talks to special interest topics about global art history. Highlights of his destination talks that cover culture, history, and street food are on Amsterdam, Barcelona, Florence, Lyon, Istanbul, Madrid, Miami, Paris, Rome, Sevilla, and Venice. Popular topics from his special interest talks are Japanese Printmaking, Islamic Art, Contemporary Art in Miami, and many more.
UPCOMING AND PAST CRUISES WITH JOHN – See the future cruises that John will speak on and review the past cruises that he presented on.
BAILLY LECTURE LIBRARY
ALL SHIPS LEAD TO ROME
Join Prof. John W. Bailly, MFA Yale, as he explores the rich culture and history of Rome. Walk in the footsteps of legendary figures like Julius Caesar and Saint Peter while discovering must-see landmarks and hidden gems—plus world-class street food. From awe-inspiring art to savory artichokes, experience why Rome truly is The Eternal City. Gladiator games, anyone?
AMSTERDAM IS THE SAFE PLACE
In today’s talk Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will recount Amsterdam’s role as a historical safe haven-Mokum Aleph. The Dutch capital’s openness resulted in cultural and financial freedom rarely seen in history, giving rise to modern capitalism. From the Jewish Quarter to the Van Gogh Museum discover this city unlike any other. Herring anyone?
ANDALUCÍA
In today’s talk Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will examine the unique history of the Spanish region of Andalucía. Beginning with the legacy of Ancient Rome, we’ll journey through the intricate tapestry of Andalucía’s past, delving into the profound influence of Medieval Islam on the region. Learn how the Catholic buildings of Cordoba, Granada, and Sevilla are a fusion of the cities’ Judaic and Islamic past. You’ll also learn of the unique culture and food of the region. Flamenco anyone?
ARE WE ROME?
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will explore enduring parallels between ancient Rome and the modern world. Through captivating stories and analysis, you will come to understand the profound impact of Rome on our lives today. Are you a Roman and don’t know it? Do all roads really lead to Rome? Carpe diem!
ART IS IMMORTAL
In today’s lecture, Professor John W. Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on a captivating journey through the timeless and transcendent essence of art. From prehistoric cave paintings to da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, and from Bernini’s Baroque masterpieces to Picasso’s Cubism, we will explore the enduring narratives that define human creativity. Immortality, anyone?
BARCELONA, CITY OF DRAGONS
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on a journey through the streets of Barcelona and share the city’s secrets, with cameos by dragons. From the Boqueria Market to the architectural marvel that is the Sagrada Familia, you’ll learn Barcelona’s history, get an overview of the main sites, and discover local gems. The talk will also introduce Montserrat and Sitges. Crema Catalana anyone?
BELOVED AND BLISSFUL PORTUGAL
In today’s talkProf John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on a journey through the streets and history and of Lisboa and Porto. Get lost in the mazes of Alfama and Baixa, only to find grilled sardines with green wine, followed by a cappuccino Bombom and a pastéis de nata. Fancy a Ginjinha?
BIRTH OF THE MODERN
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will examine the era of enlightenment and revolution. We will walk through the beautiful boldness, creativity, and innovation of Degas, van Gogh, Picasso, Kahlo and many more who dared to challenge traditional norms and conventions. Fancy being surrounded by the larger-than-life water lily paintings of Monet?
BORDEAUX AND BISCAY
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will lead us on an intriguing exploration into the rich tapestry of Bordeaux and the Bay of Biscay, delving into the culture and history of the region. Enjoy a Pintxos with a glass of Saint-Émilion while contemplating the contemporary art of Kusama and Serra in the Guggenheim Bilbao. Ready to enter the Infinity Room?
CONTEMPORARY ART IN MIAMI
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will explore the explosion of the art world in Miami over the last 35 years. Due to its location between North and South America, the American mainland and the Caribbean, and Europe and Latin America, Miami is uniquely positioned to capture the changing world we live in. Not only will this talk discuss artistic movements, but Prof Bailly will share which museums are a must to visit-and which restaurants next to them are also not to be missed.
ECHOES OF ANCIENT GREECE
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will lead us on an intriguing exploration into the rich tapestry of Ancient Greece, delving into its art, history, and mythology. From Plato’s cave to Apollo’s chariot of the sun by way of the life of Alexander the Great, Greece’s culture resonates through 2,500 years of Western civilization. The Acropolis of Athens, the stadium of Olympia, and much more are icons of human history yet resonate in our lives today. Fancy an Olympic footrace?
NORWAY: UP AND NOT CRYING
Join John Bailly, MFA, Yale, on a journey from Alesund to Stavanger through the culture and history of Norway. From the iconic tales of the Vikings to the Scream of Munch, we will unveil surprising insights and insider backstories about the lives of the people who shaped the region.
FROM THE AMERICAS TO ASIA
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on an exploration of the impact of the Americas on the culture, food, and nature of Asia. You’ll learn how the Americas transformed Asia in both small and seismic ways. From Mexican deserts to Peruvian staples, the impact of the Americas is both profound and surprising.
FROM THE AMERICAS TO EUROPE
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will reveal the surprising transformation of Europe by the depth of American influence. From dance to culinary traditions, Europe was radically changed by the biology and culture of the Americas. Pizza anyone?
FROM ASIA TO THE WORLD
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on an exploration of the profound impact of Asia on the world. You’ll learn how Asia transformed our lives, including how we eat! From culture to demographics by way of culinary traditions, no part of the world has not felt the effects of Asian traditions. As Bruce Lee said, “Be water my friend.”
FROM EUROPE TO THE AMERICAS
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on an exploration of the impact of the Transatlantic Exchange on food, nature, and culture. 1492 marked a pivotal moment in history, as it transformed the Americas, including how we eat! The Spanish did not discover a new world, but they certainly created one. Barbecue anyone?
FROM IBERIA TO THE WORLD
Today’s lecture by Prof. John W. Bailly, MFA, Yale, will examine the pivotal role of Portugal and Spain in shaping the global culture we experience today. Iberia served as a gateway for transformative demographic shifts and the fusion of culinary traditions through the introduction of new animals and plants. The discussion will highlight key locations in Lisbon and Sevilla.
HISTORY OF MIAMI
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will recount the story of Miami as a compelling case study of the Grand Exchange. From art to wildlife wars between pythons and alligators, Miami serves as a vivid microcosm of the interplay between cultures and ecosystems. Cafecito anyone?
MONUMENTS AND STREET FOOD
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will share his favorite museums, monuments, and street food in Europe, offering invaluable tips on how to make the most of your cultural adventures while abroad. Enter the Louvre through the back door and eat a falafel in a small park in Paris’ Jewish Quarter all in one morning. Skip the line, anyone?
MOUNTAINS AND WATER
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will lead us on an exploration into the rich tapestry of East Asian culture, delving into its art, history, and philosophy. From ancient sculpture through printmaking, the art of East Asia transformed global culture in subjects and techniques. Travel into the artistic versions of our cruise destinations.
NORTHERN EUROPEAN ART
In today’s talk Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on a journey from Bruges to Amsterdam through the art and architecture of Northern Europe. From the iconic works of Rembrandt and van Gogh to the lesser-known masterpieces of artists like van Eyck and van der Weyden, we will unveil surprising insights and insider backstories about the lives of the artists who shaped this golden age of creativity.
ONLY AMSTERDAM IS AMSTERDAM
Amsterdam is a city comparable only to itself: canals, world-class museums, and amazing street food. Join John Bailly, MFA, Yale, to discover how Dutch identity led to a cultural and financial freedom rarely seen in history.
PLUS ULTRA: THE ART OF ESPAÑA
In today’s talk Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will share how Spanish artists embody the national motto of Plus Ultra (Further Beyond). From Ancient Romans to Medieval Muslims, from Velázquez to Picasso, the art of Spain has been at the vanguard of cultural innovations. We will unveil surprising insights and insider backstories about the lives of the artists who shaped this golden age of creativity.
REBIRTH OF THE ANCIENT
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on a journey from Florence to Bruges through the art and architecture of the Renaissance in Europe. From the iconic works of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo to the lesser-known masterpieces of artists like van Eyck and van der Weyden, we will unveil surprising insights and insider backstories about the lives of the artists who shaped this golden age of creativity. You’ll even learn where to find the best sandwich in Europe!
THE CREATION OF A NEW WORLD
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take us on an exploration of the impact of the Transatlantic Exchange of 1492 on food, nature, and culture. From meats to sweets by way of language and culture, you’ll learn how East and West merged into a new world. Pasta anyone?
THE CRUISE LIFE
Join Prof. John W. Bailly, MFA, Yale, as he shares expert tips on his favorite cruises and port destinations. After 15 years as the Faculty Director of Study Abroad at FIU Honors, John has embraced a life at sea between semesters. From world-class museums to breathtaking nature trails and irresistible street food, discover how to make the most of your port days. All aboard!
THE GREAT WAVE
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will reveal the profound influence of East Asian art on the French Impressionists. Chinese painting and Japanese printmaking revolutionized the way 19th Parisian artists practiced their trade. Did you know Van Gogh had a “Japanese eye”?
VENICE, A CITY UPON THE WATER
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will take you on a journey through the canals of Venice and share the city’s secrets. From the unique symbolism of Basilica San Marco to the forest under the city known as the Serenissima, you’ll learn Venice’s history, get an overview of the main sites, and discover local gems. Did you know Venice is married to the sea? Aperol Spritz anyone?
WHERE IBERIA MEETS THE SEA
In today’s lecture Prof John W Bailly, MFA, Yale, will explore the culture and history of the western coasts of Europe. From Lisbon to Sevilla, the meeting place of the Atlantic and Mediterranean has produced unique cultural identities and traditions. Learn how to maximize your experience. Pastéis de Nata anyone?
LAST UPDATE
02 September 2025
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