I'm often busy with the day-to-day work at Quattro Archi, so I really appreciate the need to make some creative ME time where I can think, feel inspired, relax, create and try something different. This is what this retreat is for and I love the opportunity to help artists do their own thing.....but not alone.
I also love the buzz and excitement which accompanies the end of course pop-up show in our adjacent gallery. Often this is the first time people have had the chance to show anything in a public place and they love it!
Art and making have always been a central part of my life. Drawing was a favourite activity as a child which evolved into a graphic design degree and career teaching art and design to all ages.
My own work starts with observations, photography and sketching inspired by architecture both in Italy and Scotland as well as a particular favorite woodland where I have been able to record the turmoil of our changing climate alongside the wonderful magic of our natural environment.
My work is loose, busy and full of pattern with an element of freedom and expression which I use to convey that moment in time, that sense of place, that atmosphere which makes an original painting, sketch or print more than a picture."
ARTIST'S RETREAT FOR LMP (Like Minded People)
If you fancy some space to be creative with the option to share your ideas and work with others and the option to tap into some advice and feedback, this retreat is for you. The beautiful Tuscan village environment will help you slow down, find the opportunity to learn new processes and give you time to observe your surroundings, the Barga heritage, architecture and colour.
​
We start the course searching for that 'sense of place' as we explore the cobbled streets and sunlit piazzas of our medieval town overlooking the spectacular Apuan mountain range between us and the azzure Mediterranean sea. We gather inspiration from the people, their centuries old buildings and traditions as we soak up the rhythms of Italian village life.
​
Jane will help you select interesting vistas, subjects, colours and themes for you to practice and develop your skills. Take our map of potential vantage points and explore at will or discuss what might be an interesting perspective for you. Re-group at will and get feedback, share your successes or move on to another technique or approach.
Jane will help you evaluate options to select an image or two to work with and ultimately produce your finished masterpiece if you wish, using the facilities of the studio.
​
At the end of the course we usually have an optionally pop-up exhibition of the work to which the public are invited. It has proved very popular with the local community who love to see what our artists have produced.
​
We have a good level of flexibility, so if you need to head off for some outdoor fun or retail therapy or just chill, we can work round that so you still get the most from the retreat.
What's Included
-
5 full studio days/printmaking classes
-
Welcome drinks
-
6 nights accommodation with a good breakfast
-
Materials and a variety of papers
-
Welcome dinner on the first night
-
Self catering kitchens if you wish to cook
-
Visit to a local gallery
-
Duomo tour
-
Wine and olive oil tasting
-
Comprehensive printed course notes for you to take away
-
Short walk to shops, restaurants and cafes
-
Tea, coffee, soft drinks, snacks in the studio
-
Transport from Pisa Airport to Quattro Archi
