This course will give you the confidence and techniques required to create expressive paintings inspired by the natural beauty of the Italian landscape. Discover the joy of painting on location in this stunning rural area, responding to the colours of the landscape, exploring ideas, and developing your own unique style of painting. In the well-equipped studio, you will discover new methods of mark-making, layering, colour-mixing and composition to create harmony in your paintings. Alison will provide expert tuition with professional tips and techniques for using acrylics with mixed media. Whether you aim to capture a direct response to the landscape, loosen up your style or develop a more abstract impression, you will have the time and freedom to experiment, with expert guidance.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Alison Orchard
Cost: €2999
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

Immerse yourself in a weeklong journey of creativity, growth, and connection in beautiful Italy. Guided by Jenny Grant, you’ll explore her mixed media process with collage, acrylic painting, and expressive portraits, all while discovering the joy of letting go and embracing your unique creative voice. You’ll connect with a group of like-minded creatives, creating friendships as you learn, and explore Italy together. By the end of the week, you’ll leave with a new approach to your art, full of inspiration, and amazing memories. We will also create a simple art journal to document our creative journey, capturing meaningful moments and exploring the freedom of creating without attachment to perfection. This retreat is open to all levels.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Jenny Grant
Cost: €3499
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

With boundless skill, creativity and a plethora of ideas, Phyllis leads this all-inclusive collage workshop with enthusiasm to discover/create/enrich your artistic skills. Lecce's Lo Spazio d'Arte is a community art space in a naturally cool, 15th-century, converted bakery. Make collages with multiple layers and depths through using paintings, photos and objects from this beautiful, largely unexplored region. Create your marvelous memories of ancient Lecce with its above-ground and underground treasures. From pre-Roman through Renaissance to today, the arts remain alive everywhere. Villages with ancient frescoes and mosaics to modern ceramics, nearby coasts with giant caves, endless wildflowers, gnarled olive and almond orchards and vineyards. Enjoy region-specific pastas, wines and cheeses. This is deservedly named 'the Florence of the South'!
 
Location: Lecce, Puglia, Italy
Instructor: Phyllis Chekenian
Cost: 2750 euro
Sponsor: Lo Spazio d'Arte
email, (+1) 570 251 1766 or (+39) 347 906 4636

Join us for an unforgettable painting journey through the timeless landscapes of Tuscany, centered near the enchanting hilltop town of Cortona and the medieval gem of Lucca. Over ten inspiring days, we’ll explore Montepulciano, Assisi, and local wineries, spending seven nights near Cortona and three nights in Lucca. This immersive experience blends world-class art instruction, exquisite cuisine, unforgettable wines, and the breathtaking beauty of one of Italy’s most celebrated regions. Our workshop is designed for painters of all levels, from beginners to seasoned artists. Under Vlad’s expert guidance, you’ll capture the essence of Tuscany in watercolor—or the medium of your choice—while deepening your artistic vision in a warm and supportive atmosphere. Early-Bird Special $200 OFF until November 30.
 
Location: Cortona, Lucca, Italy
Instructor: Vladislav Yeliseyev
Cost: $5290
Sponsor: Renaissance School of Art
Website, email, 941-330-6865

Join renowned artist Samantha Williams-Chapelsky for a captivating textured semi-abstract plein air workshop in the breathtaking landscapes of Italy. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Italian countryside while learning innovative techniques to create vibrant, textured works of art. Perfect for artists of all levels, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore semi-abstract expression through Samantha’s expert guidance, all while drawing inspiration from Italy’s rich scenery and culture. Don’t miss this unforgettable artistic experience!
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Samantha Williams-Chapelsky
Cost: €3649
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

Writing can be both an inherited and an acquired skill, as is illustrating. With daily explorations through the heel of Italy, you will encounter antiquities, incredible nature, history and cultures from Greek to modern times. Lindsay, a fun-loving, well-published writer/illustrator and professor, will guide you. Enjoy cool mornings, exploring Lecce and nearby towns, the coast, vineyards and orchards. The warmer afternoons will take place in the naturally cool, cave-like 15th-century converted bakery, Lo Spazio d'Arte, your workspace. Everything is included: regional transportation, private accommodations in Centro Storico, full art materials packet, hand-bound journal, meals, wine and your weeklong pass for building entries at your leisure. This ‘Florence of the South’ is a treasure, and a place to create memories!
 
Location: Lecce, Puglia, Italy
Instructor: Lindsay Barrett George
Cost: 2750 Euro
Sponsor: Lo Spazio d'Arte
email, (+1) 570 251 1766 or (+39) 347 906 4636

Painting Tour in enchanting city of Venice, tailored for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Each day includes demonstrations and personalized one-on-one instruction led by the renowned artist Vladislav Yeliseyev, allowing you to enhance your skills while capturing the breathtaking scenes of this iconic city. Everyone will end up with beautiful, memorable paintings and an experience they will never forget.
 
Location: Venice, Italy
Instructor: Vladislav Yeliseyev
Sponsor: Renaissance School of Art
Website, email, 941-330-6865

A thought-provoking and inspirational art workshop open to artists of all levels and media (oils, acrylics, watercolors, etc.). Nine full days of plein air painting, art history/theory lectures, touring, and gastronomy in the most beautiful area of Tuscany. Our teaching approach and groups limited to eight participants allow us to offer personalized instruction and a stimulating environment that fosters creativity. Cost of CAD 4350 (around US$ 3170) includes instruction, 9-night single or double accommodation (limited single rooms available at no extra cost), all breakfasts, 7 lunches, 9 gourmet dinners including wine, transportation from and to the Arezzo train station, transportation to all painting sites (Montepulciano, Cortona, Pienza, etc.), train ticket to Florence, and a guided tour to the Uffizi Museum.
 
Location: Lucignano, Italy
Instructor: Prof. Yves M. Larocque
Cost: US$3170
Sponsor: Walk the Arts
Website, email, 800-611-4789

This 6-day workshop in Western Sicily builds strong painting and composition skills while encouraging artists to explore surrounding themes and develop visual narratives. Drawing inspiration from the landscape, atmosphere, and daily experiences of Western Sicily, participants will translate observations and moods onto the canvas through a thoughtful, selective use of mixed media. Artists will learn to balance intention with experimentation to create cohesive, expressive work that reflects their personal voice and artistic vision. Desired outcomes can range from representational to abstract, and materials may include one or more media. The workshop emphasizes a clear understanding of methods, materials, and tools, empowering participants to continue developing confident, independent work long after the workshop concludes.
 
Location: Marsala, Sicily, Italy
Instructor: Sandra Iafrate
Cost: $2998. Early booking fee
Sponsor: Sicily Artist Retreat
Website, email, 289-696-2789

Escape to a transformative 7-day all-inclusive En Plein Air art retreat in the breathtaking landscapes of Le Marche region in Italy, hosted at the luxurious Hotel Leone. Led by the talented and inspiring Oksana Zhelisko, this retreat is open to artists of all levels, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills in oil or acrylic painting. Oksana will break down the painting process into its essential elements, focusing on key aspects like composition, value, and colour mixing. Working En Plein Air captures the nuances of light, shadow, and colour live, helping you build a deeper understanding of the landscape around you. Oksana’s personalized approach will also empower you to express your vision confidently and creatively.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Oksana Zhelisko
Cost: €3549
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

8-day Sketching & Painting Retreat at Dievole Wine Resort, Tuscany. Surrounded by panoramic views and the charm of a 900-year-old winery, you’ll be immersed in the perfect setting to create art from the heart. Most meals, wine, lodging, tours and instruction included. Any medium, all levels welcome. Plus a sketchpad, sharpie, and small watercolor set is recommended, especially for beginners. Karen will demonstrate sketching with enhanced watercolor washes. Then she’ll guide you in developing those initial sketches into expressive small paintings on canvas boards. Through daily demos (in oil and sharpie) personalized instruction, explore how to build compelling compositions, simplify color theory, infuse your travel sketches & paintings with your own unique voice. Hosted by Il Chiostro Workshops.
 
Location: Vagliagli, Tuscany, Italy
Instructor: Karen Hewitt Hagan
Cost: $4475
Website, email, 843-754-0494

Discover the enchanting landscapes and architecture of Italy during this special painting retreat. Under the expert guidance of artist Christopher Cole, you’ll immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of medieval villages, rolling vineyards, and sun-drenched hillsides while refining your artistic skills and developing your unique creative voice. Christopher’s course will focus on sketching and painting from direct observation. Using pencil, pen, watercolours and/or acrylics you will be guided to achieve authentic interpretations of local views, buildings and people on location. By demonstrating how to select your subject, then how to compose and colour your painting, Christopher will inspire confidence using both traditional and contemporary techniques.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Christopher Cole
Cost: starts at €2999
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

A thought-provoking and inspirational art workshop open to artists of all levels and media (oils, acrylics, watercolors). Nine full days of plein air painting, art history/theory lectures, touring, and gastronomy in the most beautiful area of Tuscany. Our teaching approach and groups of up to eight participants allow us to offer personalized instruction and a stimulating environment that encourages creativity. Cost of CAD 4485 (around US$ 3290) includes instruction, 9-night single or double accommodation (limited single rooms available at no extra cost), all breakfasts, 7 lunches, 9 gourmet dinners, transportation from and to the Arezzo train station, transportation to all painting sites (Montepulciano, Cortona, Pienza, etc.), train ticket to Florence, and a guided tour to the Uffizi museum.
 
Location: Lucignano, Italy
Instructor: Prof. Yves M. Larocque
Cost: US$ 3290
Sponsor: Walk the Arts
Website, email, 800-611-4789

Your 7-night art adventure awaits! If you’re seeking an authentic Italian escape, Le Marche is the answer. This enchanting area is nestled between the dramatic Sibillini mountains and the Adriatic Sea and is charactised by endless coastline, rolling hills dotted with vineyards, olive trees, historic villages and breathtaking mountain ranges. Our time together will be a nurturing blend of being out in our environment, sketching/taking photos and gathering inspiration, and devoted studio time and one-on-one instruction to allow you to grow your skills, explore new techniques, and relish in your creativity. Professional plein air artist Beth Bathe will be demoing/instructing using water mixable oil paint, perfect for plein air. Students may use the medium of their choice.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Beth Bathe
Cost: starts at €3699
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

Join Betty in Italy! If you’re longing for a creative experience that blends art, connection, and the quiet beauty of Central Italy, there is no better place to be. Each day we’ll gather to paint in a way that is expressive, intuitive, and spacious. Betty will gently guide you through color, layering, mark-making, movement, and loosening your grip on “getting it right.” There will be demonstrations, exercises, and plenty of time to paint — time to follow your curiosity and let the work unfold naturally. The beauty, quiet pace, and landscape of Le Marche will become part of the conversation between you and your art. This retreat is open to all levels. You do not need to be “good at art”.
 
Location: Montelparo, Italy
Instructor: Betty Franks
Cost: starts at €3749
Sponsor: Hotel Leone
Website, email, +39 340 4166054

A thought-provoking and inspirational art workshop open to artists of all levels and media (oils, acrylics, watercolors). Nine full days of plein air painting, art history/theory lectures, touring, and gastronomy in the most beautiful area of Tuscany. Our teaching approach and groups of up to eight participants allow us to offer personalized instruction and a stimulating environment that encourages creativity. Cost of CAD 4485 (around US$ 3290) includes instruction, 9-night single or double accommodation (limited single rooms available at no extra cost), all breakfasts, 7 lunches, 9 gourmet dinners, transportation from and to the Arezzo train station, transportation to all painting sites (Montepulciano, Cortona, Pienza, etc.), train ticket to Florence, and a guided tour to the Uffizi museum.
 
Location: Lucignano, Italy
Instructor: Prof. Yves M. Larocque
Cost: US$ 3290
Sponsor: Walk the Arts
Website, email, 800-611-4789