Workshops Italia
2012 Painting Workshop in Tuscany  May 27 - June 6
 
With Nationally-Known Painter & Instructor Rodger Bechtold
 
Rodger works well with painters at all levels, helping each painter find their own voice:
"Art is simply a conversation between the painter and viewer."
See more about Rodger at rodgerbechtold.com.
Non artists are also welcome to join the group.
 
Register now - Deadline Extended to February 10th


About the Workshop


Artists of all levels will gain inspiration from the breathtaking views and extraordinary light quality. Plein air painting classes will be held in the morning.  Afternoons will be devoted to working independently. Individual and group critiques will be offered.

The painting workshop is going to be a journey in more ways than one. Wine makers struggle for years to make wine with the unique flavors of the region "terroir". With this in mind we are going to paint the Tuscan landscape in a way that expresses this quality, this sense of place. The intention is to produce work that resonates with the viewer in the way that music does, with straight forward  approaches and painting methods that can help you find your own painting voice and color language.


Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned painter we are all equals in the quest for paintings with something to say.A material list will be provided and questions are always welcome. We look forward to this opportunity to spend some very special days beneath the Tuscan sky. 


The Location

A medieval walled hill town, Barga is in the northwestern part of Tuscany, near Pisa, Florence and Lucca. Barga is surrounded by a wall with three arched entrances. It is situated in a valley between the Apuan Alps and the Appenine mountains and has many examples of medieval art and architecture including the 9th century duomo and several chapels. There is an active arts community.
 
Breathtaking vistas, architecture and gardens offer inspiration for painters and photographers. Just outside the walls of ancient Barga, there are 1910 era villas, hiking paths, a park, more restaurants and gelateria, shops and a movie theater. Those wishing to visit Florence or nearby Lucca can go by  train, bus or rental car. The coastal villages of Cinque Terre are about a 2 hour drive.
 
Accommodations

We will stay in an historic 18th century town house, within the walls of Barga Vecchia (ancient Barga). the house has been renovated as a comfortable pensione (B&B) with modern facilities and a sunny walled garden.
Accommodations are in shared rooms (though a few single rooms may
be available for an extra fee). A simple, nutritious Tuscan breakfast (daily) and complete dinners (seven nights) will be provided. There are trattoria and intimate ristorante to enjoy for dinners on your own (three nights) and daily for lunch on your own -- or enjoy lunch alfresco.
 
Workshops Italia 
 
Donna Magnani, director of Workshops Italia, is an artist and nonprofit management professional who has painted and traveled throughout Italy. Her love of Italy and familiarity with Tuscany and Umbria inspired the launch of Workshops Italia. She coordinates small group stays in quaint, off-the-beaten-path spots, with delicious local cuisine and the visual feast of the Italian countryside. Most trips include opportunities for study with noted artists, independent work, occasionally cooking classes, and always enjoyment of the village lifestyle and the beauty of Italy away from the crowds. Future workshops may include opportunities for photographers and retreats for nonprofit professionals. 

Comments from Workshops Italia Participants

“An ideal locale...stunning views!”

“Just a marvelous, dreamlike time. I can’t wait to return...”

 “I loved the group critique at the end of the week. We got into discussion of art and our individual approaches.”

 

“Enough off the beaten path, yet providing for all of our needs (including exercise walking the hilly streets). Barga was enchanting...infinite inspiration for creating art.”

“The simple, elegant way of life and friendliness of the locals made us feel at home from the start. Barga is a great location location and convenient for day trips to other great places.”

 

Cost and Payment Schedule

Workshop: $2885

Without class: $200 discount

Fees include: shared accommodations for ten nights; transportation by van to and from the Pisa airport; continental breakfast daily; dinner seven nights. Some private rooms may be available at extra cost. Flights to Pisa should be made well in advance so that you arrive by noon, and our van can pick up everyone in our group. For those who prefer to fly into Florence, you can reach Barga by train or bus.

SPACE IS LIMITED, and reservations are on a first-come basis. To guarantee a spot, a completed application form with a deposit of $950 per person must be received by extended deadline of February 10, 2012.  A second payment of $950 is due by February 15, 2012 and the balance is due by April 15, 2012. Payment should be made by check payable to Donna Magnani/dba Workshops Italia. (Workshop prices are based on exchange ratbruaes and are subject to modest change.) 
 

To request further information and an application form for the Workshop contact:

Donna Magnani
Workshops Italia

14028 W. South Street
Woodstock, IL 60098
(815) 337-0822
dmagnani@mc.net
workshopsitalia.com 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
Paintings by Rodger Bechtold
 
      Robin Egg Blue
  
  
  Julian's Jeep Field of Pink
 
 
   Red White & Blue