Plein Air Artists Workshop
Plein Air Artists Workshop
May 10-19, 2026
Special Guest Artist /Instructor Donna Jill Witty
Special Guest Artist /Instructor Donna Jill Witty
Embedded Files
Guest Artist/Instructor Donna Jill Witty, is an accomplished, award winning watercolorist and teacher, She will help you fine tune your art form, whether through sketching or painting, or to explore new directions. Donna Jill is skilled in teaching small groups whether focusing on composition, light sources, color, or other aspects of drawing and painting. Her vast background will permit her to adapt this workshop to participants' level as you absorb and respond to the magic of the lifestyle in the Italian countryside.
Her classes will help artists at all levels find inspiration in this ancient hilltop town, with its unique light quality, colors, stunning views, landscapes, and architecture. She may offer some demonstrations as well as times for us to share our work and discuss it with each other. We will include times to work in a private walled garden at the top of the town with a stunning overlook view plus and other special sites in Barga. There will also be two day trips to nearby villages.
In addition to morning classes, there will be plenty of free afternoon time to work independently, whether on your own or along with Jill or others from the group. (Or of course, to just explore town and relax.)
Special Message from the Director of Workshops Italia
Over the years I have enjoyed retuning to Barga and bringing different talented guest artists/instructors, each with their own focus and style. And watching participants open up and respond to the wonder of the location. This wonderful opportunity to have Donna Jilly Witty , who has taught classes and given demonstrations all over - and lives part time in Italy - is truly special. I look forward to your joining us! Please contact me with your questions. donnamagnani@gmail.com.
Donna
Watch for more information about Donna Jill Witty on this site soon.
For now, you may visit her website, donnajillwitty.com, for more information about her. (Note her website is presently undergoing updates of images of her work.)
The Location
We return to the medieval, walled hilltown of Barga in northwest Tuscany, which offers breathtaking overlooks, small winding streets to explore, wonderful historic architecture and quiet gardens. Barga has an active arts community, an art museum, galleries, a historic Duomo and smaller churches. Many charming local bar-cafes welcome you for a coffee, pastry, gelato or panini. Several trattoria and ristorante feature wonderful local cuisine. Frequently there is music on some of the squares. Those wishing to visit Lucca or other smaller nearby villages on their own, can travel by bus or taxi.
Note: Barga has some steep ancient streets and many stairs to climb, so be prepared to walk to and carry your art supplies to various en plein air locations.
Accommodations
We stay in an historic villa, beautifully restored into a charming and comfortable family-run hotel with lovely outdoor areas and terraces. Our host is gracious and helpful. Accommodations are in shared rooms, with a few private rooms available. Sumptuous Tuscan breakfasts served daily in the spacious dining room. Four group dinners at local ristorante are provided. Other nights you can enjoy dinner on your own at your choice of the town's trattoria or ristorante. Lunch on your own daily.
Fee & Payments
Fee of $2995 includes: Shared accommodations for nine nights (some private rooms available for an extra fee). Daily classes, plus group discussions and sharing your work. Ground transportation to and from the Pisa airport. Delicious full Tuscan breakfast daily. Group dinners four nights. Two day trips to nearby towns.
The maximum number of participants is 10 and registration is on a first-come basis. To secure your spot, application and deposit of $1000 due no later than October 20, 2025. Full balance due no later than February 20, 2026.
Making Your Own Air Travel Arrangements
Flights to Pisa (not included in the workshop fee) should be made in advance so that you arrive by noon on the day the workshop begins when our van will pick everyone up from the Pisa airport around noon. The morning after the workshop sessions end, a van will take us to the Pisa airport.
Workshops Italia was founded in 2002 by Donna Magnani, an artist and former nonprofit administrator, who has painted and traveled throughout Italy since 1984. Her love of Italy and familiarity with Tuscany and Umbria inspired the launch of Workshops Italia to offer small group stays in quaint, off-the-beaten-path spots, with delicious local cuisine and the inspiration of the Italian countryside. Past trips have included study with noted artists, independent work, a writing workshop, and sometimes an exhibit of work in progress. Occasionally a cooking class has been available. And always the enjoyment of the lifestyle and beauty of Italy away from the crowds.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse