An Artist's View

Choosing what to paint requires a fresh eye!

One of the advantages of going to a completely unfamiliar place is that you see things in a different way. The buildings aren't old and run down- they have character and fantastic lighting and unbelievable texture. The ancient fishing village of Lezzeno was written about as early as the 9th century, has wonderful churches and hidden alleyways. Most of the families have been here for more than 10 generations. We were gifted with a book of the history of the town by Gabrielle on one of our walk through town. It may take awhile to translate though!

Painting the colors of Italy



More things to paint in Italy!!

The first thing we all noticed was that color was everywhere! Rose, Yellow, Burnt Sienna, vibrant greens, soft oranges. Every doorway was different, every home or building was a personal statement. Vines and flower pots popped up everywhere! Honestly, I think we had enough reference to paint a full year in only the first day. The hard part will be choosing the scene that inspired us the most. It was no mistake that famous artists visited this lake for inspiration- Michaelangelo and DaVinci non the less!!

Can we paint this too??

Artistic reference in Italy

Early the next morning we explored the biggest town on the Lake. We took the Funicular up to the top of the mountains and visited the small town of Brunate.

We all went exploring and admired the view. Jeannette made us a friend  at the cafe on the top and we enjoyed a wee bit of Limoncello, wine and snacks. Betty had brought Flat Stanley, Pearl had run into her Italian Nona and we had gorgeous reference material for painting.

Paint in Italy-Our First Look

We wandered the street of Como finding an 8^th century alley, 12^th century houses and a charming square with a massive church and wonderful statues. The cameras were kept busy, yes, we were ‘snap happy’! We were almost too excited to sleep!

In fact, some of us had a hard time adjusting to the time change and there were a few  mornings that felt like afternoon. Breakfast  buffet at the hotel was excellent. We had no problems being only English speaking and we were treated very well.

There were 100's of views waiting for an artists brush!

Coming and Going-Arrival in Milan

The coffee table book has been ordered, the photos have been sorted, edited and selected, the photo albums are all filled and the stories are ready…..

I am still pinching myself and hoping to wake up in Italy and have a fresh marmalade croissant and espresso with extra hot water for breakfast.

 We took the milk route- Edmonton-Calgary-Frankfurt-Milan by air and then Milan-Saronno-Como by train. The eight of us, Marla, Pearl, Jeannette, Lynda , Rhonda, Betty, Ed and I checked into our hotel in Como just in time for a late supper at the outdoor café down the street on the lakefront. Irene and Patti had checked in already after having a full week exploring Cinque Terre and other hot spots in Italy.

We had a get together at Ed and Laura's home so everyone could meet and get all trip information at the same time. We had Italian appetizers, drinks and treats just to tease us a little!

Ready to paint in Como, Italy

A trip of a lifetime! Ten of us visited the Lake Como area of northern Italy to sketch and paint where Leonardo Da Vinci, Roman philosophers and even George Cluny have enjoyed this picturesque alpine lake.
In all of Italy, why the Lake Como Area?
Spectacular villas: A short ferry ride around the lake can take you to manicured gardens or ancient wild and natural beauty, or world renowned collections of art and flowering plants. So much in so small an area.
Moderate weather: Not to hot not to cold! We had a few days of rain, but it never stopped us.Warn enough for gelato, but no heat stroke!
Incredible food: We stayed at the lovely Villa Aurora and had 4 star authenic Italian meals every night!
The colors of Italy: Every town or village was clothed in colors for some of the most exciting photography ever! Around every corner awaited a view to be painted!
Initmate Italian experience: We traveled, shopped and ate with the friendly locals.
Incredible painting and sketching locations: Villa Melzi, Villa Carlotta, Varenna, Belagio, Mennagio
Additional Cultural high lights: Italian cooking lesson, visiting hill top castles, exploring ancient fishing villages and modern towns, Roman ruins, medieval churches,