PATHWAYS TO PAINT

What I want to paint...Villa Melzi

More shots of the very lush villa. It doesn't stay this empty for long. It took us a few hours to very slowly stroll and photograph (everything) our way through. We each found a place to set up and sketch or paint...and find the ladies room!


Finding our artistic muse at Villa Melzi

Painting a Wonderland!

An artists dream landscape!

Our first big adventure was to go to Bellagio and explore the Villa Melzi. Off we go, after an abundant breakfast buffet. We caught the local bus and had an exciting, winding trip around the lake. Bellagio is definitely the jewel of the lake! Villa Melzi was a short 5 min walk down the road. We arrived even before the staff, so we had fun testing out our cameras!

Wow We were not disappointed! The grounds were manicured, mixing colors and textures, long walkways, staircases and exquisite buildings. What was even better is that there were no crowds! We had the run of the place and easily sketched where ever we could. Needless to say, our first go through was slow as we wore off the buttons on our cameras. The first time to Italy is like that....around every corner is a work of art ready for your brush! Quick take a pouicture so we can see what else there is.....

Sketching and watercolor lessons in Itlay

We had rain the next morning and decided to do a bit of watercolor in the restaurant.  We could have done with a hair dryer or two!!!

Margarita and Christina manned the front desk and very helpful with suggestions and bus schedules etc. There was no vacancy all week, even this early in the season. That says volumes about the wonderful family run albergo we stayed in! Don't forget-'Villa Aurora!

Things to paint in Italy

Lezzeno has a long and interesting past. We were fortunate to meet Gabriele ( a local) who gifted us with the ‘History of Lezzeno”. We need to translate it though!!

We saw ancient homes and alleyways and many shrines to the Madonna.

There were gardens everywhere! Another woman gave us cumquats right of her tree! Most people eat whatever they grow and the garden determines the menu.

By the way, we have already booked again for another Paint In italy trip, Lake como and maybe another place.if you are interestd in haveing a trip of a lifetime in May 2013, call me@ 780-419-2055!

Exploring Lezzeno looking for "paintables"

Paint in Italy- small town treasures

We stayed in  the wonderful family run Villa Aurora. Wonderful buffet breakfasts, incredible evening gourmet meals with wine and an unforgettable view across Lake Como of the Villa Babienello made famous in Star Wars.  The staff were extremely helpful with figuring out the local transportation and giving us hints and tips. The owners ran the restaurant, looked after the guests and we felt like part of the family when we left!!
I am happy to say that I am not the only one with a fascination for doors!