Join food-stylist Nicole Dowds and florist Julia Kim for a relaxed and inspiring workshop in the heart of one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Using floral elements in arrangements with Italy's famous charcuterie and cheeses, participants will learn strategies through which they can to bring beauty to their homes and tables. Throughout the workshop, all will be inspired by the timeless charm of Monte Castello’s medieval streets, sun-drenched piazzas, and sweeping Umbrian landscapes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshoppackage is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO) aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual suppor

 

This 14‑day workshop led by Ivan Albreht invites you to a hands-on, sensuous exploration of clay and the overlooked objects of everyday life. We will take a hybrid approach that blends contemporary, industrially informed techniques within the quiet traditional setting, transforming plastic and glass bottles, cases, aluminum trays, cans and other consumer remnants into molds and new forms. The workshop is designed to be tactile and immersive, encouraging curiosity, risk taking and the pleasure of making.

You will learn practical mold making methods, from simple 1- and 2-part press molds to more complex 2-to-4-part molds for slip casting, then move into casting and assembly as soft and hard casts become modular elements for sculptural or vessel-based work. Each participant will make at least one mold and will be able to share and trade cast parts, so ideas circulate through the group. While the focus will be on the process with an open-ended outcome, several smaller scale pieces will be created by participants. Surface options include glazing or leaving pieces unglazed to emphasize form and texture.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

          

 

 

This workshop on sculpting the human figure in clay emphasizes an experimental, improvisational approach to discovering movement, gesture and vitality. Through live demonstrations, hands-on exercises and slide presentations, participants will learn to manipulate the clay figure and push past common stumbling blocks of proportion, movement and balance.

Students will build small-scale maquettes in anticipation of larger work, learn solid sculpting methods, and discover how to hollow and prepare pieces for firing. We'll break the figure down into basic components to explore their potential for various poses, with special sessions focusing on challenging areas such as heads and hands.

Surface techniques will be explored using texture, underglazes, stains, pencils and mark-making to strengthen the form and develop rich visual effects. Michelle will work individually with each participant on their artwork. All skill levels welcome!

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

 

 

ICARTS Italia is proud to announce our collaboration with the renowned, Court of Master Sommeliers of Europe who will offer their 3-day, Introductory Sommelier Course at our facilities in Monte Castello this October.  We are indeed honored to provide the opportunity for our program participants to  conducted by the worlds premier sommelier training and examining body!

The course fee for the Introductory Sommelier Course includes the course and instruction, wine and classes, as well as a light lunch on the course days.

For millennia, the peoples of the Italian peninsula have produced some of the most extraordinary wines in the world. Today Italy is the worlds largest wine-producer and also maintains the greatest diversity of autochthonous (indigenous) wines to be found anywhere!  In fact, here in Umbria, our village is surrounded by vineyards producing varietals that are found nowhere else - it is the perfect setting in which to begin your journey into becoming a sommelier!  Our objective in this workshop provide this geographic and cultural backdrop to the rigorous sommelier certification program (Level 1 and 2) offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers.  The class is intended for food and wine industry professionals seeking to develop their wine theory, tasting, and practical expertise.

 

 

It is important for participants to be aware that this rigorous program is demanding, requiring a 60% pass mark on both written and practical evaluations in addition to two-days of in-person coursework and lecture. The lectures are presented by Master Sommeliers using a power-point format interspersed with wine tastings, plus a practical service demonstration. The examination comprises a multiple-choice theoretical paper plus a short elementary practical service test.  The Introductory Sommelier  Certificate examination is held on the morning of the third day of the introductory program.  After examination results are tallied, those who are successful will be invited to participate in the Certified Sommelier examination, to be held later that day.

 

 

The 3-Day experience hosted by ICARTS in collaboration with the Court of Master Sommeliers class culminates with exams on Friday. For those traveling from abroad, we highly recommend enrolling in our concurrent, Week in the Green Heart of Italy program, which provides and ideal companion experience to the Sommelier Program. It presents an opportunity to stay at ICARTS facilities in Mionte Castello and to dine at the school on our breathtaking terrace over the Tiber Valley.

 

 

Optional addition: A Week in the Green Heart of Italy

(Please note that the Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program is NOT included in the price of  the 3-day Sommelier course. No meals or accommodation are included in the price of the sommelier course.)

For those traveling from abroad, the program offers an ideal opportunity to acclimate to the time change, relax and prepare for the Sommelier Course with MA. For those coming to ICARTS to participate in the Sommelier program, our Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program offers a very attractively priced all-inclusive package of meals and accommodation.

For those interested in traveling with a partner or spouse, the program provides ideal activities for a companion with a week of relaxation filled with immersive experiences that will soon become treasured memories. From pasta-making to truffle hunting to watching the traditional ceramic techniques of the nearby majolica capital, Deruta in action.  We will visit the incredible Marmore Falls - the highest in Europe. We will sample regional wines and typical products at nearby wineries, learn about the wonderful olive oils of Umbria, and celebrate the ancient culinary traditions of our fascinating Region. We share the same respect for the territory and the landscape which has been our and passion over the years.

The all inclusive experience provides accommodation in our beautifully preserved 14th c., medieval hill town in a former convent, called: "Asilo."  The simple rooms convey the experience of the nuns who lived here in quiet contemplation, while each has a window overlooking the stunning Tiber Valley. Double occupancy accommodation upgrades are available with private bath, AC, etc., are available on request. We provide Welcome and Departure services on selected days from the Rome/Fiumicino, Leonardo da Vinci International (FCO) airport as well as airport transfer by private bus.  Our private bus transports participants to off-campus excursions to vineyards, etc.  Using locally sourced and artisanal ingredients, three traditional meals are lovingly prepared by our kitchen staff Monday through Friday. Saturdays and Sundays, we provide an incredible brunch with fresh baked bread and pastries, a variety of eggs, cheeses, and cured meats, as well as fresh yogurt and fruit. Of course, all accompanied by chilled Prosecco! Saturday and Sunday dinner are also "grill-day’s" and we will enjoy savory grilled meats (including wild game), fresh vegetables, and more! All lunches and dinners are accompanied by local wine, wines from our extensive Wine List available for purchase.  Our bi-lingual staff is on hand 24/7 to fill your needs.

Please note that the Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program is NOT included in the price of  the 3-day Sommelier course. No meals or accommodation are included with the sommelier course. 

 

 

.       

 

Court of Master Sommeliers Program Objectives

The below is taken from the Court of Master Sommeliers website at: https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/qualifications/

Level 1: Introductory Sommelier Certificate

(https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/introductory-sommelier-certificate-3-days/)

A three-day, intensive program comprised of two days of coursework followed by one day of examinations. 

Prerequisite: Hospitality industry experience and a good basic theoretical knowledge of wines.

 

"The content of the course covers:

1. elementary practices in the vineyard and winemaking procedures.
2. the grape varieties, origins, specific winemaking procedures and classifications for all the major wines of the world.
3. the production, raw materials and flavours of Spirits and liqueurs.
4. technical skills of wine service.
5. importance of social skills.
6. fundamentals of matching wines with food.
7. an introduction to the skills of wine tasting."

"Candidates who satisfactorily gain this certificate will be able to:

1. explain the factors which contribute towards the quality of wines.
2. describe the characteristics of the wines from the main wine producing countries of the world.
3. demonstrate an understanding of the wine classification and control systems in current use.
4. interpret wine label terms.
5. state the basic ingredients and flavours of apéritifs, spirits and liqueurs.
6. demonstrate an awareness of beers, saké and other beverages.
7. demonstrate the correct service of wine and other beverages.
8. demonstrate a basic competence in selling and matching wines with foods.
9. identify the requirements of the Advanced Sommelier Certificate."

Level 2: Certified Sommelier

(https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/certified-sommelier-examination-1-day/)

"The Certified Sommelier qualification is the primary certification for wine and beverage professionals, comprised of one full day of examinations. There is no coursework for this level."

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Level 1 course.

"Objectives:

1. To create a minimum standard of service and knowledge for the Hospitality Industry.
2. To provide successful candidates with credentials to show employers their skills have been evaluated at a high level of proficiency by the leading authority on beverage service – the Internationally recognised Court of Master Sommeliers Worldwide.
3. To create a certification that provides all successful candidates with a sense of accomplishment while providing the most dedicated students an opportunity to further their education and skills at the Advanced and Masters levels."

"The Certified Sommelier Examination comprises three parts:

1. Short written theory paper of 40 multiple choice and short answer questions.
2. Tasting test consisting of two wines tasted blind, and answered on a Tasting Grid.
3. Practical service test."

ICARTS Italia is proud to announce our collaboration with the renowned, Court of Master Sommeliers of Europe who will offer their 3-day, Introductory Sommelier Course and Exam and their Certified Sommelier Examination at our facilities in Monte Castello this October.  We are indeed honored to host these classes which are to be conducted by the worlds premier sommelier training and examining body!  The Course fee includes the course and instruction, wine and classes, and testing for both Level 1 and 2 certification. (Please note, certification is not a guaranteed and is contingent on passing the appropriate exams.)

For millennia, the peoples of the Italian peninsula have produced some of the most extraordinary wines in the world. Today Italy is the worlds largest wine-producer and also maintains the greatest diversity of autochthonous (indigenous) wines to be found anywhere!  In fact, here in Umbria, our village is surrounded by vineyards producing varietals that are found nowhere else - it is the perfect setting in which to begin your journey into becoming a sommelier!  Our objective in this workshop provide this geographic and cultural backdrop to the rigorous sommelier certification program (Level 1 and 2) offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers.  The class is intended for food and wine industry professionals seeking to develop their wine theory, tasting, and practical expertise.

 

 

It is important for participants to be aware that this rigorous program is demanding, requiring a 60% pass mark on both written and practical evaluations in addition to two-days of in-person coursework and lecture. The lectures are presented by Master Sommeliers using a power-point format interspersed with wine tastings, plus a practical service demonstration. The examination comprises a multiple-choice theoretical paper plus a short elementary practical service test.  The Introductory Sommelier  Certificate examination is held on the morning of the third day of the introductory program.  After examination results are tallied, those who are successful will be invited to participate in the Certified Sommelier examination, to be held later that day.

 

 

The 3-Day experience hosted by ICARTS in collaboration with the Court of Master Sommeliers class culminates with exams on Friday. For those traveling from abroad, we highly recommend enrolling in our concurrent, Week in the Green Heart of Italy program, which provides and ideal companion experience to the Sommelier Program. It presents an opportunity to stay at ICARTS facilities in Mionte Castello and to dine at the school on our breathtaking terrace over the Tiber Valley.

 

 

Optional addition: A Week in the Green Heart of Italy

(Please note that the Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program is NOT included in the price of  the 3-day Sommelier course. No meals or accommodation are included in the price of the sommelier course.)

For those traveling from abroad, the program offers an ideal opportunity to acclimate to the time change, relax and prepare for the Sommelier Course with MA. For those coming to ICARTS to participate in the Sommelier program, our Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program offers a very attractively priced all-inclusive package of meals and accommodation.

For those interested in traveling with a partner or spouse, the program provides ideal activities for a companion with a week of relaxation filled with immersive experiences that will soon become treasured memories. From pasta-making to truffle hunting to watching the traditional ceramic techniques of the nearby majolica capital, Deruta in action.  We will visit the incredible Marmore Falls - the highest in Europe. We will sample regional wines and typical products at nearby wineries, learn about the wonderful olive oils of Umbria, and celebrate the ancient culinary traditions of our fascinating Region. We share the same respect for the territory and the landscape which has been our and passion over the years.

The all inclusive experience provides accommodation in our beautifully preserved 14th c., medieval hill town in a former convent, called: "Asilo."  The simple rooms convey the experience of the nuns who lived here in quiet contemplation, while each has a window overlooking the stunning Tiber Valley. Double occupancy accommodation upgrades are available with private bath, AC, etc., are available on request. We provide Welcome and Departure services on selected days from the Rome/Fiumicino, Leonardo da Vinci International (FCO) airport as well as airport transfer by private bus.  Our private bus transports participants to off-campus excursions to vineyards, etc.  Using locally sourced and artisanal ingredients, three traditional meals are lovingly prepared by our kitchen staff Monday through Friday. Saturdays and Sundays, we provide an incredible brunch with fresh baked bread and pastries, a variety of eggs, cheeses, and cured meats, as well as fresh yogurt and fruit. Of course, all accompanied by chilled Prosecco! Saturday and Sunday dinner are also "grill-day’s" and we will enjoy savory grilled meats (including wild game), fresh vegetables, and more! All lunches and dinners are accompanied by local wine, wines from our extensive Wine List available for purchase.  Our bi-lingual staff is on hand 24/7 to fill your needs.

Please note that the Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program is NOT included in the price of  the 3-day Sommelier course. No meals or accommodation are included with the sommelier course. 

 

 

.       

 

Court of Master Sommeliers Program Objectives

The below is taken from the Court of Master Sommeliers website at: https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/qualifications/

Level 1: Introductory Sommelier Certificate

(https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/introductory-sommelier-certificate-3-days/)

A three-day, intensive program comprised of two days of coursework followed by one day of examinations. 

Prerequisite: Hospitality industry experience and a good basic theoretical knowledge of wines.

 

"The content of the course covers:

1. elementary practices in the vineyard and winemaking procedures.
2. the grape varieties, origins, specific winemaking procedures and classifications for all the major wines of the world.
3. the production, raw materials and flavours of Spirits and liqueurs.
4. technical skills of wine service.
5. importance of social skills.
6. fundamentals of matching wines with food.
7. an introduction to the skills of wine tasting."

"Candidates who satisfactorily gain this certificate will be able to:

1. explain the factors which contribute towards the quality of wines.
2. describe the characteristics of the wines from the main wine producing countries of the world.
3. demonstrate an understanding of the wine classification and control systems in current use.
4. interpret wine label terms.
5. state the basic ingredients and flavours of apéritifs, spirits and liqueurs.
6. demonstrate an awareness of beers, saké and other beverages.
7. demonstrate the correct service of wine and other beverages.
8. demonstrate a basic competence in selling and matching wines with foods.
9. identify the requirements of the Advanced Sommelier Certificate."

Level 2: Certified Sommelier

(https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/certified-sommelier-examination-1-day/)

"The Certified Sommelier qualification is the primary certification for wine and beverage professionals, comprised of one full day of examinations. There is no coursework for this level."

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Level 1 course.

"Objectives:

1. To create a minimum standard of service and knowledge for the Hospitality Industry.
2. To provide successful candidates with credentials to show employers their skills have been evaluated at a high level of proficiency by the leading authority on beverage service – the Internationally recognised Court of Master Sommeliers Worldwide.
3. To create a certification that provides all successful candidates with a sense of accomplishment while providing the most dedicated students an opportunity to further their education and skills at the Advanced and Masters levels."

"The Certified Sommelier Examination comprises three parts:

1. Short written theory paper of 40 multiple choice and short answer questions.
2. Tasting test consisting of two wines tasted blind, and answered on a Tasting Grid.
3. Practical service test."

ICARTS Italia is proud to announce our collaboration with the renowned, Court of Master Sommeliers of Europe who will offer their 3-day, Introductory Sommelier Course and Exam and their Certified Sommelier Examination at our facilities in Monte Castello this October.  We are indeed honored to host these classes which are to be conducted by the worlds premier sommelier training and examining body!  The Course fee includes the course and instruction, wine and classes, and testing for both Level 1 and 2 certification. (Please note, certification is not a guaranteed and is contingent on passing the appropriate exams.)

For millennia, the peoples of the Italian peninsula have produced some of the most extraordinary wines in the world. Today Italy is the worlds largest wine-producer and also maintains the greatest diversity of autochthonous (indigenous) wines to be found anywhere!  In fact, here in Umbria, our village is surrounded by vineyards producing varietals that are found nowhere else - it is the perfect setting in which to begin your journey into becoming a sommelier!  Our objective in this workshop provide this geographic and cultural backdrop to the rigorous sommelier certification program (Level 1 and 2) offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers.  The class is intended for food and wine industry professionals seeking to develop their wine theory, tasting, and practical expertise.

 

 

It is important for participants to be aware that this rigorous program is demanding, requiring a 60% pass mark on both written and practical evaluations in addition to two-days of in-person coursework and lecture. The lectures are presented by Master Sommeliers using a power-point format interspersed with wine tastings, plus a practical service demonstration. The examination comprises a multiple-choice theoretical paper plus a short elementary practical service test.  The Introductory Sommelier  Certificate examination is held on the morning of the third day of the introductory program.  After examination results are tallied, those who are successful will be invited to participate in the Certified Sommelier examination, to be held later that day.

 

 

The 3-Day experience hosted by ICARTS in collaboration with the Court of Master Sommeliers class culminates with exams on Friday. For those traveling from abroad, we highly recommend enrolling in our concurrent, Week in the Green Heart of Italy program, which provides and ideal companion experience to the Sommelier Program. It presents an opportunity to stay at ICARTS facilities in Mionte Castello and to dine at the school on our breathtaking terrace over the Tiber Valley.

 

 

Optional addition: A Week in the Green Heart of Italy

(Please note that the Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program is NOT included in the price of  the 3-day Sommelier course. No meals or accommodation are included in the price of the sommelier course.)

For those traveling from abroad, the program offers an ideal opportunity to acclimate to the time change, relax and prepare for the Sommelier Course with MA. For those coming to ICARTS to participate in the Sommelier program, our Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program offers a very attractively priced all-inclusive package of meals and accommodation.

For those interested in traveling with a partner or spouse, the program provides ideal activities for a companion with a week of relaxation filled with immersive experiences that will soon become treasured memories. From pasta-making to truffle hunting to watching the traditional ceramic techniques of the nearby majolica capital, Deruta in action.  We will visit the incredible Marmore Falls - the highest in Europe. We will sample regional wines and typical products at nearby wineries, learn about the wonderful olive oils of Umbria, and celebrate the ancient culinary traditions of our fascinating Region. We share the same respect for the territory and the landscape which has been our and passion over the years.

The all inclusive experience provides accommodation in our beautifully preserved 14th c., medieval hill town in a former convent, called: "Asilo."  The simple rooms convey the experience of the nuns who lived here in quiet contemplation, while each has a window overlooking the stunning Tiber Valley. Double occupancy accommodation upgrades are available with private bath, AC, etc., are available on request. We provide Welcome and Departure services on selected days from the Rome/Fiumicino, Leonardo da Vinci International (FCO) airport as well as airport transfer by private bus.  Our private bus transports participants to off-campus excursions to vineyards, etc.  Using locally sourced and artisanal ingredients, three traditional meals are lovingly prepared by our kitchen staff Monday through Friday. Saturdays and Sundays, we provide an incredible brunch with fresh baked bread and pastries, a variety of eggs, cheeses, and cured meats, as well as fresh yogurt and fruit. Of course, all accompanied by chilled Prosecco! Saturday and Sunday dinner are also "grill-day’s" and we will enjoy savory grilled meats (including wild game), fresh vegetables, and more! All lunches and dinners are accompanied by local wine, wines from our extensive Wine List available for purchase.  Our bi-lingual staff is on hand 24/7 to fill your needs.

Please note that the Week in the Green Heart of Italy Program is NOT included in the price of  the 3-day Sommelier course. No meals or accommodation are included with the sommelier course. 

 

 

.       

 

Court of Master Sommeliers Program Objectives

The below is taken from the Court of Master Sommeliers website at: https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/qualifications/

Level 1: Introductory Sommelier Certificate

(https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/introductory-sommelier-certificate-3-days/)

A three-day, intensive program comprised of two days of coursework followed by one day of examinations. 

Prerequisite: Hospitality industry experience and a good basic theoretical knowledge of wines.

 

"The content of the course covers:

1. elementary practices in the vineyard and winemaking procedures.
2. the grape varieties, origins, specific winemaking procedures and classifications for all the major wines of the world.
3. the production, raw materials and flavours of Spirits and liqueurs.
4. technical skills of wine service.
5. importance of social skills.
6. fundamentals of matching wines with food.
7. an introduction to the skills of wine tasting."

"Candidates who satisfactorily gain this certificate will be able to:

1. explain the factors which contribute towards the quality of wines.
2. describe the characteristics of the wines from the main wine producing countries of the world.
3. demonstrate an understanding of the wine classification and control systems in current use.
4. interpret wine label terms.
5. state the basic ingredients and flavours of apéritifs, spirits and liqueurs.
6. demonstrate an awareness of beers, saké and other beverages.
7. demonstrate the correct service of wine and other beverages.
8. demonstrate a basic competence in selling and matching wines with foods.
9. identify the requirements of the Advanced Sommelier Certificate."

Level 2: Certified Sommelier

(https://www.courtofmastersommeliers.org/certified-sommelier-examination-1-day/)

"The Certified Sommelier qualification is the primary certification for wine and beverage professionals, comprised of one full day of examinations. There is no coursework for this level."

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Level 1 course.

"Objectives:

1. To create a minimum standard of service and knowledge for the Hospitality Industry.
2. To provide successful candidates with credentials to show employers their skills have been evaluated at a high level of proficiency by the leading authority on beverage service – the Internationally recognised Court of Master Sommeliers Worldwide.
3. To create a certification that provides all successful candidates with a sense of accomplishment while providing the most dedicated students an opportunity to further their education and skills at the Advanced and Masters levels."

"The Certified Sommelier Examination comprises three parts:

1. Short written theory paper of 40 multiple choice and short answer questions.
2. Tasting test consisting of two wines tasted blind, and answered on a Tasting Grid.
3. Practical service test."

This workshop addresses the question, “just how much can I communicate on the ceramic surface, and how deep is it really?” Over this two-week intensive, Eva offers step by step technical demonstrations, probing writing and imagery prompts, one on one mentoring, and open-forum discussion, as we create several series of investigative tiles and wall boxes. Our emphasis will be on creative experimentation and exploring strategic layering and combinations of techniques in order to develop tableaux of complexity and depth, be your aim dramatic and lively, or subtle and resonant. All techniques will be low-tech but high-impact, meaning they can be used in any studio setting, using any clays and any firing temperature, with no need for special materials or equipment. The magic is in how we apply them in service to our vision, and there will be as many approaches as there are makers. Employing Eva’s “freestyle” way of handbuilding, we compose personal narrative and meaning through the interplay of form, mark making, texture, and color. This is an opportunity to hone in completely on the painterly potential of ceramic materials and processes. An intensive session of discovery, reflection, and production will impact our existing studio practices greatly, broadening the spectrum of means for bringing creative vision to light: this exploration is applicable to pottery, sculpture, or even painting with non-ceramic media. This workshop is open to all levels of experience. Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.    

Related Events

• 

  Portrait Mastery in Umbria: A Two-Week Classical Realism Intensive with Constance Ramsey Bowden & Karen Warshal

  May 31 - June 14
• 

  Human Anatomy Intensive - ICA 2026 Renaissance Series

  June 14 - June 21
• 

  Oil Painting Techniques of the Northern Renaissance

  June 21 - June 28

This workshop on sculpting the human figure in clay emphasizes an experimental, improvisational approach to discovering movement, gesture and vitality. Through live demonstrations, hands-on exercises and slide presentations, participants will learn to manipulate the clay figure and push past common stumbling blocks of proportion, movement and balance.

Students will build small-scale maquettes in anticipation of larger work, learn solid sculpting methods, and discover how to hollow and prepare pieces for firing. We'll break the figure down into basic components to explore their potential for various poses, with special sessions focusing on challenging areas such as heads and hands.

Surface techniques will be explored using texture, underglazes, stains, pencils and mark-making to strengthen the form and develop rich visual effects. Michelle will work individually with each participant on their artwork. All skill levels welcome!

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

 

 

In this workshop we will explore new ways to construct functional pottery forms from slabs and paper templates, and transforming those flat shapes into functional pots. Focusing on the intimate objects that we use regularly; primarily cups, mugs, bowls, and vases, we will use these objects as canvases to explore surfaces and develop new ways to convey and layer our ideas. Working within our beautiful Italian surroundings, we will use our time equally between making and looking. We will step out of our comfort zones, finding beauty in the mundane, and finding surfaces that are captivating in both our environment as well as our pottery.  We will utilize various regional clays to make terra sigilatta, historically used in this region of Italy since the Etruscan times, that will become our canvas to build upon in our explorations.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

Staging the Narrative: 

Ceramic Hand building with Ceramic and Cold Finishes

Inspired by Monte Castello di Vibio's Teatro della Concordia (the smallest Italian style theater in the world) and grand theatrical vision of La Scarzuola, let's explore the drama of the human narrative!  During this retreat Kirsten will guide the class to build a 3/4 life size head that can hang on the wall or sit on a table.    Kirsten has a step-by-step approach to figurative ceramics that is easily accessible, even for the beginner.  Her class demonstrations and hand-outs are followed-up with individual tutorials, enabling her to help each student achieve their narrative vision.

After the build, Kirsten will explore the potential of adding layers of texture before firing.  Post-firing,  Kirsten will guide the class in using cold finishes to mimic, complement, or enhance ceramic finishes.  She will share her techniques as well as encourage experimentation and play with different mediums.  Participants will walk away with a stronger knowledge of human anatomy and the narrative value of expression, as well as an approach for finishing their works that is layered and complex. ​ Finished sculptures will be able to be packed in a carry-on suitcase for travel and transportation convenience.

In addition, participants will enjoy several excursions to nearby Umbrian towns such as Perugia, Spoleto or Todi to explore the history and art that shines in the green center of Italy.  Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio where you can wonder its quiet streets and enjoy the vistas of the valley and other hill towns.  Explore the history of this medieval village and experience the jewel-box of a theater that is one of the smallest theaters in the world.
Your weekend is free to catch up on studio work, relax, or take advantage of the other sites or activities in Umbria.  These additions can be arranged through ICArts for an additional fee. This class is for ALL LEVELS: whether you have never touched clay but yearn to stretch your creative potential, or if you are a seasoned ceramicists that want to add a few new techniques to your toolbox.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

 

 

In this course, we will sculpt a 24” tall portrait bust, with the upper torso, using contemporary hand building techniques informed by Renaissance and 19th century sculpting practices. We will sculpt from a live model, focusing on the large masses of the body, and how they move in concert together to form a clear gesture. Our approach is based around close observation, and an emphasis on anatomical structure and form relationships. Students will learn how to think three-dimensionally, judging likeness with volume and mass.

The class will cover basic anatomy, and how to use proportional cannons or measuring systems to sculpt a well-proportioned figure at any scale. We will cover basic “block-in” technique, learning how to accurately establish the large relationships of the figure, before moving on to modeling and finishing techniques for clay.

We will be slab building pieces that can be fired at the end of class, so students can go home with a finished sculptural vessel. The class will include sculpting demonstration, constructive critiques, and lecture. No experience is necessary, teaching will be tailored to individuals and students will return home with a finished sculptural vessel.

Included in the cost of the course are day trips to Deruta/Assisi and Orvieto.

On our Deruta/Assisi trip, we will start the day at the Santuario della Madonna dei Bagni, a sanctuary constructed around a tree where an apparition of the Virgin Mary appeared to a shepherd, distraught over his wife’s grave illness.  According to legend, he prayed to the Virgin and his wife was cured.  For centuries afterward, pilgrims have come to the church to pray for loved ones who were injured or ill. Later, in gratitude some donated a votive majolica plaque commemorating the accidents and illnesses from which victims were saved through the intercession of the Virgin.  What remains is an intimate and moving glimpse into the lives and struggles of individuals who sought spiritual intervention in times of need throughout centuries.

Moving on to Deruta, we will tour several local ceramics studios who work in the maiolica tradition, and visit the extraordinary, Museo Regionale Della Ceramica di Deruta. We will next travel to Assisi to visit Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, decoratedwith frescoes by Cimabue, Giotto, Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti, and possibly Pietro Cavallini. The range and quality of the works give the basilica a unique importance in demonstrating the outstanding development of Italian art of this period.

Finally, we will visit Spello, to see the astounding frescos by Pinturicchio in the Cappella Baglioni, as well as the mosaic work in Villa de Mosaici, a beautifully preserved Roman Villa with mosaic floors from the imperial era. Before returning to Monte Castello, we will have dinner that includes a wine tasting, and enjoy the region’s famous terroir.

Our second trip will be to Orvieto here we will see the cathedral, full of rich architectural ornament, mosaics, and the beautiful fresco Cycle in the San Brizio Chapel, begun by Fra Angelico, and finished by Luca Signorelli, Michelangelo’s forerunner in painting. We will also visit the The Pietà Ippolito Scalza, 1579 Duomo of Orvieto, Italy. For wine enthusiasts, there will be many available options for sampling some of the best wine in Italy. Afterward we will have dinner in Orvieto, which will feature a tasting of several of the Regions excellent wines.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO) aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.  Materials for the course will be available in the ICA Art Supply store in Monte Castello.

 

Fueled by a new interest in the individual, the birth of the Renaissance in Florence in the 15th century brought a rebirth of the long dormant art of Portraiture. What better place to study the art of Portraiture than in Monte Castello di Vibio, just a stone’s throw from that extraordinary city?

This comprehensive two-week workshop offers a unique opportunity to study classical realist Portraiture in both two and three dimensions under the expert guidance of renowned sculptor Constance Ramsey Bowden and acclaimed painter Karen Warshal.

Workshop Focus

Working from live models in an intimate studio setting, students will explore the fundamental principles of portrait creation across three classical mediums: drawing, painting, and sculpture. This intensive program emphasizes the essential building blocks of representational art, making it ideal for both beginners seeking solid foundations and more seasoned artists looking to refine their skills.  The small class size ensures ample individual instruction for each student.

Class Structure

Students will draw or paint the model in the morning.  After lunch, students will sculpt the same model in water based clay.  Models will maintain the same pose for the duration of the workshop. 

Curriculum Highlights

• Anatomical Foundation: Master the underlying structure of the head and facial features through detailed anatomical study.
• Sculptural Techniques: Learn to capture likeness and character in clay, from initial armature construction through finished portrait.
• Drawing Fundamentals: Learn to identify the shapes and planes specific to each individual model as you develop accuracy in line, proportion, form and value.
• Painting Principles: Understand color theory and color mixing, leading to more accurate skin tones.  Practice effective paint application, including brushwork, glazing and treatment of edges.

*         Design Elements:   Explore the principles of traditional design inherent in each portrait.

• Observational Skills: Strengthen your ability to see and translate three-dimensional form onto two-dimensional surfaces.

Cultural Immersion Beyond the Studio

Students will journey to the artistic heart of Renaissance Italy with guided excursions to Rome and Florence. These field trips will serve to deepen students’ understanding of the skills and concepts they’re learning in the studio.  In addition, they’ll come to appreciate the history of Portraiture itself and its place in the overall history of art.

Florence: visit to the world class Palazzo Pitti, including the Galleria Palatina and the Gallery of Modern Art. The Palatina features some of the greatest paintings of the Renaissance and Baroque periods, while the Moderna hosts masterpieces of traditional art from the 19th century.

Rome: visit to the Musei Capitolini complex, filled with many of the finest Roman copies of Greek sculptures in existence.

Weekends

Weekends are reserved for relaxing and recharging, with optional visits to nearby towns such as Deruta and Todi.  Open model time will also be available for those interested.

Join us for this unique experience in Monte Castello di Vibio, where life is always just a little bit magical!

 

Included in the price

Transfer to and from airport on designated pick-up and drop off dates*

Transportation for excursions to Florence and Rome

Entrance fees to Palazzo Pitti e Musei Capitolini

All class instruction

All meals except for lunch and dinner on the days of our field trips to Florence and Rome

Accommodations in single room with shared bath in the Asilo.  (One “matrimoniale” room is also available.)

Private tour of the Teatro della Concordia

Clay and armatures for sculpture

 

Not included in price

Optional excursions on weekends

Housing upgrades to private room with bath or entire apartment (see options below)

*Pick-up  and drop-off at Fiumicino airport on days other than those designated.  For those arriving at a different time, an additional charge will be added.

 

About the food

Delicious meals are lovingly prepared by our expert chefs, Cristiano and Loris. Featuring traditional Umbrian cuisine and always using the freshest ingredients purchased daily, Cristiano and Loris work hard to please everyone, honoring dietary restrictions and food preferences. Breakfast (buffet) and lunch are served indoors, while dinner is held on the scenic rooftop terrace overlooking the valley surrounding Monte Castello di Vibio.  To say that this is a breathtaking venue and an extraordinary experience would be an understatement.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Class Schedule

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday (of both weeks):

9:30-1:00 class (drawing/painting)

1:00-2:00 lunch

2:00-2:30 rest

2:30-6:00 class (sculpture)

Wednesdays: field trip Saturdays, Sundays: optional field trips, optional model time, free time

 

A PERSONAL NOTE FROM CONSTANCE AND KAREN TO YOU, OUR POTENTIAL STUDENTS:

We’ve designed this program with the goal of maximum learning because, as teachers, that’s our responsibility and it’s also who we are.  But remember that this is YOUR special experience and it needs to meet your needs.  This is an intensive program, so if you’re tired, take a rest.  If you miss an hour or even a session, the world won’t come to an end.

 

 

Join me for a relaxed and inspiring travel sketching workshop in the heart of one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Using ink and watercolour, we’ll capture the timeless charm of Monte Castello’s medieval streets, sun-drenched piazzas, and sweeping Umbrian landscapes. My workshops focus on simplifying complex scenes, finding your personal sketching voice, and embracing the imperfections of on-location sketching.

Participants will work with portable materials — pens, travel watercolour sets, and sketchbooks — ideal for capturing moments on the move. Monte Castello’s unique, car-free setting means we can sketch in peace, surrounded by ancient stone buildings, flower-draped balconies, and panoramic views without the interruption of traffic. It’s a dream location for artists and travellers alike, offering endless inspiration at every turn. Whether you're new to sketching or an experienced artist, this is your chance to slow down, observe deeply, and sketch your adventures.

Materials for the course will be available in the ICA Art Supply store in Monte Castello, but if you prefer to bring them from home, you will need: pencil (B or 2B), eraser, pen with waterproof ink (fineliners are a good option: 0.3, 0.5, 0.8 by brands such as UniPin, Micron, Copic, etc), watercolour brushes: one large (#10 round) and one small (#4 round or 1/4inch dagger), watercolour sketchbook (at least 200gsm, 300gsm preferred), watercolour set (12 colours is fine, artist grade preferred – St Petersburg White Nights, Rosa Gallery, Roman Szmal, Royal Talens Van Gogh (higher end student grade), Daniel Smith, Winsor Newton are all good brands and variety of price points), pot for water, cloth to wipe brush.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshoppackage is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO) aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support.

 

 

Our in-depth animal sculpture workshop will allow you to immerse yourself in your art. Nick will demonstrate the importance of observation, show you how to make an emotional connection with your subject and realize your own creative vision. Our extended workshop format allows plenty of time for instruction and practical work.

Under Nick’s expert guidance, you will make your own animal sculpture. Combining a mix of one-to-one and group demonstration and tuition, Nick will teach you building techniques and help you hone your modeling skills. No prior experience is needed and all the tools and materials you’ll need are provided.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

 

A Note to Participants:

When packing:

• Please bring no solvents or flammable or perishable materials. 

Materials to bring from home:

• Packing Materials including: 3 x newspapers for sculpture and packing material such as bubble wrap
• Sturdy shopping bag to take sculpture in carry-on luggage on flight home. Sculpture weight 2-5kgs
• Animal Subject References: You should decide in advance what animal you would like to model and research photos showing different views of your subject in the desired pose. Remember that sculpture is three dimensional, so you will need good information about your animal from all directions. If you’re a beginner, we recommend you choose an animal you know well and a non-standing pose. Bringing the info on an Ipad is preferable
• When returning: Please bear in mind that you will be returning with your sculpture as Carry-on luggage. Participants should be warned that shipping anything to or from Monte Castello can be extremely problematic due to complications with Italian Customs. Please DO NOT plan on shipping your sculpture. 

Join us in the heart Italy - in our mountaintop "castle town" of Monte Castello di Vibio for an intensive week of wood kiln construction with renowned potter and master kiln-builder, Rudie Delanghe!

Here, deep among the mountains and ancient forests, Roman and Etruscan kilns still dot the clay-rich landscape of the Tiber Valley.  Our participants live and work in an ancient mountain village made of stones, which is unchanged since the middle ages.  We are surrounded by vineyards and olive groves -and steeped in traditions. This is truly a side of Italy that most travelers never experience!

In this landscape where past meets present, we will follow in the path of the ancestral crafts of the region as we construct a kiln that Rudie has designed and has himself built many times. The 1.5 meter wood fired trolley kiln we build together will constructed with over 2,000 refractory insulation bricks and provide a useable space 100 cm wide, 120 cm long, 130 cm high. This remarkably efficient kiln design is very economical in its use of wood and easy to fire by one person.

Building a wood-fired kiln is a complex process that requires both extensive knowledge and experience as well as careful planning.  Rudie will select materials, weld our metal frames and trolley, and lend his direction and masonry expertise to the group as we build the kiln itself.  Participants will learn principles that underlie the successful design of a wood kiln and the complex process behind its construction from a master European kiln-builder!  This workshop is open to all levels of experience.  Those interested in firing their work and experiencing the kiln in action, should consider our subsequent Workshop: Earth, Hands, and Fire: Building Epic Vessels for the Wood Kiln with Eva Champagne  October 5- 19, 2025.(Be sure to inquire about reduced pricing for both workshops.)

During the Workshop, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO) aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

Charcuterie-styling workshop with Nicole Dowds

Want to impress your family and friends for with your unique charcuterie board? Are you interested in adding classic Italian salumi and cheeses to your repertoire of flavors? 

Then join us for this exclusive event and learn how to create an elegant charcuterie board with unforgettable traditional ingredients and flavor combinations that will blow your guests away! In this workshop, we put the tools right in your hands! 

The Course is led by Nicole Dowds of the celebrated, Charcuterina. In addition to Charcuterina, Nicole is also a food stylist, classic piano player, and world traveler. While living in in Rome, Nicole experienced and was enchanted by authentic Italian cuisine.  She is the ideal guide to your adventure in the world of Italian Charcuterie.

The workshop includes the Full kit (instruction + supplies + premium ingredients), a beautiful  olive wood board to bring with you after the workshop with Italian Local Wine Pairing.

Mastering Wine-tasting with Sommelier, Rowena Dumlao

Considering wine paring, Italy is the worlds largest wine producer and it is appropriate that afternoons will be devoted to understanding paring Italian charcuterie and cheeses with wines of the country. With this in mind you'll learn about the native grapes and their fascinating histories, and, when possible, meet the passionate producers who are reviving them. We’ll provide printouts to enhance your learning experience to supplement tastings and offer visits to Umbrian wineries.  You'll delve into the winemaking process, explore different types of terroir and their effects on wine, and learn how to properly assess wine using visual, olfactory, and gustatory senses, all under the guidance of a professional sommelier.  Our guide to wine will be renowned food and wine critic and sommelier, Rowena Dumlao. With her guidance, you'll explore wines from each of Italy's 20 regions. Rowena has meticulously selected 2 wines from each region, highlighting the country’s remarkable vinicultural diversity. Each day includes an informative presentation followed by a tasting session featuring 8 distinctive wines, allowing participants to sample over 50 different wines throughout the workshop.

Throughout the workshop, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Join us for a week of immersion in local tradition among the green hills of Umbria, in the heart of Italy.  Here, in the ancient medieval village of Monte Castello di Vibio, time stands still.  One of the  most finely restored of Italian Hill Towns, Monte Castello has been recently been added to the list of "Most Beautiful Villages of Italy." Its stands among the hills of the Tiber valley, looking over  the entire valley.  From our vantage point, it is possible to admire the nearby historical cities of Todi, Perugia and even Montefalco on clear spring days.

Please note: This experience is held concurrently with our Sommelier Certification Course and particularly for those traveling from abroad, the Week in the Green Heart of Italy workshop presents the ideal meal and accommodation package to accompany that course - provided at very competitive rates.  For those traveling with a partner or spouse, family member or friend, the workshop makes it possible to enjoy the intimacy of our spectacularly beautiful village and for the companion not participating in the Sommelier course, provides interesting activities and the possibility of dining together. However, the Sommelier Course is NOT INCLUDED IN THIS PROGRAM.

The International Center of the Arts will make you feel at home during your stay, pampering you with our local cuisine created by our chefs Cristiano and Loris whose kitchen utilizes locally-sourced, seasonal products and traditional recipes of Umbria.  Truffles, local mushrooms, wild boar and many other regional ingredients accompany great local wine ad olive oil, freshly-baked bread!  During your stay, a cooking course will allow you to learn  the secrets of the art of hand-made pasta according to the family recipe of Cristiano and his grandmother Anna: fun with your hands in the pasta is guaranteed as is the flavor!

The program offers a week of relaxation filled with immersive experiences that will soon become treasured memories. From pasta-making to truffle hunting to watching the traditional ceramic techniques of the nearby majolica capital, Deruta in action.  We will visit the incredible Marmore Falls - the highest in Europe. We will sample regional wines and typical products at nearby wineries, learn about the wonderful olive oils of Umbria, and celebrate the ancient culinary traditions of our fascinating Region. We share the same respect for the territory and the landscape which has been our and passion over the years.

 

 

Your all inclusive experience provides accommodation in our beautifully preserved 14th c., medieval hill town in a former convent, called: "Asilo."  The simple rooms convey the experience of the nuns who lived here in quiet contemplation, while each has a window overlooking the stunning Tiber Valley. Each room contains a sink and vanity, but the bathrooms are shared 2-3 rooms to a bath. Accommodation upgrades are available with private bath, AC, etc., are available on request. We provide Welcome and Departure services on selected days from the Rome/Fiumicino, Leonardo da Vinci International (FCO) airport as well as airport transfer by private bus.  Our private bus transports participants to off-campus excursions to vineyards, etc.  Using locally sourced and artisanal ingredients, three traditional meals are lovingly prepared by our kitchen staff Monday through Friday. Saturdays and Sundays, we provide an incredible brunch with fresh baked bread and pastries, a variety of eggs, cheeses, and cured meats, as well as fresh yogurt and fruit. Of course, all accompanied by chilled Prosecco! Saturday and Sunday dinner are also "grill-day’s" and we will enjoy savory grilled meats (including wild game), fresh vegetables, and more! All lunches and dinners are accompanied by local wine, wines from our extensive Wine List available for purchase.  Our bi-lingual staff is on hand 24/7 to fill your needs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Linocut and Book Illustration with Daria Most

Would you like to master one of the most intriguing graphic techniques?
Join "Linocut and Book Illustration" course, which will open up a world of creative expression through linocut and the art of illustration!

You will learn about the history of linocut — from its origins to modern trends.

Understand how different types of strokes, lines, and dots affect the final image.

Gain practical knowledge of compositional rules and learn to convey space, light, and shadows through line work.

Immersion in the creative process:

The course is divided into three practical themes:

1. "The Lines of Monte Castello di Vibio"
   You will explore the ancient architecture of the Monte Castello di Vibio, studying its proportions and perspective. Working with architectural elements, you will stylize the forms you discover and use them to create and cut on linoleum your own graphic compositions.
2. "Free Line"
   In this phase, you will carve your own personal symbol that reflects your individuality, using the free line technique in linocut. This allows you to experiment with your own style and visual ideas.
3. Illustrations for the Poetry of Alda Merini
   The final part of the course will be dedicated to creating a series of illustrations inspired by the poetry of renowned Italian poet Alda Merini. Known for her powerful and emotional writing, Merini's work explores themes of love, pain, madness, and spirituality. These deep, often complex themes offer a rich foundation for visual interpretation, allowing participants to express emotions and moods through the art of linocut.

You’ll learn how to turn the abstract ideas of poetry into concrete graphic elements, balancing both the text and imagery in a harmonious composition. This will be a opportunity to combine literature and graphic art, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of both mediums while creating a series of meaningful, artistic works.

Course Outcomes:

• You will create unique graphic works that can be used for book design or as standalone artistic objects.
• Master the full linocut process, from initial sketches to the final printed piece.
• After completing the course, you will be able to work independently with linocut, experiment with different styles, and explore various formats.

Final Exhibition: At the end of the course, you will present your own series of works at a group exhibition

During the course, you will visit the Museo della Stampa in Foligno, where you will see exhibits that tell the history of printing and graphics, including traditional techniques, as well as the Museo della Carta e della Filigrana in Fabriano, where you can see how linocuts are combined with other graphic techniques and learn about their significance in the history of art.

 

Join us for an immersive two weeks of creating meaningful ceramic vessels and firing them in ICA Italy’s new wood kiln. Be in the first group to fire this custom-built kiln!

Throughout history ceramic vessels have told stories far more profound than the mere fact of storage or service. During this workshop, we plumb the depths of our own motivations to create vessels which carry our contemporary, personal narratives.

Taking inspiration from the landscape and historical-cultural milieu of Umbria, as well as the unique ideas and influences we each contain within us, we create a series of works that embody a specific moment, investigation, and touch. This workshop explores the vivid possibilities for expression when one adopts a “freestyle” approach to making. We create personal narrative and content through the interplay between form, surface embellishment, and wood firing atmosphere on a series of works inspired by vessels of antiquity.

Eva’s intuitive hand building method creates 3 dimensional “canvases” upon which to explore multiple techniques for mark making, printing, adding depth and texture— in effect, telling a visual story across the surface of each vessel, and then offering these highly expressive works to the new wood kiln, allowing it to have the final word in design.

During our first week together, Eva offers step by step technical guidance, demonstrations, one on one mentoring, and open-forum discussion, as we create our series of vessels at varying scales. We quickly hone our hand building skills, develop tactile acuity, and push our ability to make clay do what we want and convey the thoughts and concerns we wish it to. We investigate numerous ways that the form and surface can be handled for expressive results, be your aim dramatic, vivid, or subtle.

At the end of the first week, we dig up some local clay to work with, allowing us to compare the material qualities and firing results between clay bodies. During week two, we turn our attention to finishing touches to our series, drying them, and preparing for the wood firing. We discuss all aspects of this process, and everyone is hands-on during the inaugural firing itself, which takes about one day. We experience the exhilarating freedom of giving our works over to the wood kiln, since results cannot be entirely predicted. Our process can be described as a collaboration between the maker’s planning and execution, and the kiln’s sweeping endowments and editing: a meeting of intention and fortune.

This intensive period of creative reflection and production undertaken in such a breathtaking setting as Monte Castello Di Vibio will impact your studio practice for a long time to come. This workshop is open to all levels of experience.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

Ancient cultures resonate in Umbria and in particular was the cradle of Etruscan Civilization. In respect for these traditions, ICA is proud to offer an intensive -hands-on- studio pottery program on the techniques of  Ancient Ceramics, focusing on Greek and Etruscan Pottery. Experts in these techniques will lead participants into one the most appreciated ancient forms in the history of ceramics: Greek and Etruscan Vases. Participants are accommodated in Monte Castello, and the workshop is to be held at our Deruta laboratory, in the Umbrian town renowned for its majolica traditions.

The intensive workshop provides four days of  "in-class" work studying decorative techniques of the famous black-figure and red-figure vessels focussing on analysis of specific examples such as the Krater of Euphronius, which describes the history of the Trojan War.  The workshop includes lectures focusing on history of the medium with special attention to technical aspects and practical dimensions as well as aesthetic considerations -manifest in their classic shapes and colors.

Participants will work with shapes and decoration characteristic of the Greek Classical Period.  The workshop will also focus on sources of the pigments which were harvested from the earth and decanted from clays. The colors we use will be derived from clays, just as in ancient times - participants will even paint their pots with brushes specially made with hare whiskers. Traditional techniques to be covered include: painting, scgraffito, sanding and firing - there will also be a traditional "egg" decoration test, in which color changes with heat, providing insight into a simple but historic decorative technique.

Throughout the workshop, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio. Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

               

Closely linked to Zen culture, in which the beauty and harmony of simple things is exalted, the Raku technique was born in the 16th century as an art for the creation of bowls used during the traditional tea ceremony. It is characterized by a rapid production process and a particular process from which ceramics are obtained which differ in their characteristic cracking and coloring, giving life to unique pieces.

In the 16th century, a type of rapid clay firing, called Raku, was discovered in Japan. This Japanese term has the meaning of "relaxed, pleasant, joy of living" and is traced back to the suburb of Kyoto where clay was extracted at the time. The birth of the Raku technique for creating ceramic objects seems to be attributed to a Korean craftsman, Chojiro. This ceramist, who mainly made tiles, began to use the particular clay, rich in silica sand, to speed up the production process of bowls for the tea ceremony.

The origin of Raku ceramics, with an improvised appearance, full of defects, almost unfinished, is closely connected to Zen thought which is inspired by simplicity, poverty in forms. All those that may seem like "imperfections" in Raku objects are instead exalted and considered "beautiful" in Zen culture. This aspect is also evident in the Kintsugi technique, which involves the repair of a vase or other object through the use of a precious metal: this Japanese art valorises "flaws" and becomes a metaphor of resilience.

The four-day course will cover: modelling, creation of sheet shapes, brush and airbrush glazing techniques, firing with crackle and metal effects.  The course also includes 2 or 3 firings which are one of the most fascinating things about the technique.

Throughout the workshop, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio. Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

 

 

Kurinuki (the term is Japanese) is a Japanese ceramic technique that embraces the natural surface of the clay and the individual imperfections that form in the intuitive process of making. Each vase is hand built and hand carved inside and out.

The kurinuki process is a "sculptural" technique of volume formation: instead of adding material, as happens in the dovetail or slab construction, we start from the block of clay and gradually remove it, digging internally and modeling the external wall with the help of tools, until the desired shape is obtained. It is therefore a question, as in sculpture, of freeing a form enclosed in the formless.The idea of ​​the artistic object may not be clear at the beginning: it is precisely the lack of clarity (not seeing clearly) that guides the path, that digs a path. What he obtains in the end is a symbol, something that continues to be linked to his origins, but like a child his destiny is autonomous.

The program will also be a way to travel internally, allowing yourself to abandon yourself to this ancient art, creating unique objects linked to Zen culture with different stoneware clays.  At the end, a tasting of Japanese tea will be offered on cups made of kurinuki.

To complement the program, a visit to the famous Deruta, its museum dedicated to majolica and a Deruta artisan workshop.

Throughout the workshop, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio. Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

 

                

Join us for a week art-making, cooking, and immersion in local tradition among the green hills of Umbria, in the heart of Italy.  Here, in the ancient medieval village of Monte Castello di Vibio, time stands still.  One of the  most finely restored of Italian Hill Towns, Monte Castello has been recently been added to the list of "Most Beautiful Villages of Italy." Its stands among the hills of the Tiber valley, looking over  the entire valley.  From our vantage point, it is possible to admire the nearby historical cities of Todi, Perugia and even Montefalco on clear spring days.

The International Center of the Arts will make you feel at home during your stay, pampering you with our local cuisine created by our chefs Cristiano and Loris whose kitchen utilizes locally-sourced, seasonal products and traditional recipes of Umbria.  Truffles, local mushrooms, wild boar and many other regional ingredients accompany great local wine ad olive oil, freshly-baked bread!  During your stay, a cooking course will allow you to learn  the secrets of the art of hand-made pasta according to the family recipe of Cristiano and his grandmother Anna: fun with your hands in the pasta is guaranteed as is the flavor!

The program offers a week of relaxation filled with creative activities.  From the traditional ceramic techniques of the nearby majolica capital, Deruta to Raku firing with our partners at Mondoceramica , participants will and model and decorate clay objects made with their own hands. We will visit the remarkable, nearby city of Orvieto and the incredible Marmore Falls - the highest in Europe. We will regional wines and typical products at the excellent Paolucci Winery, our partner in the celebration of the ancient culinary and wine traditions our fascinating Region. We share the same respect for the territory and the landscape which has been our and passion over the years.

 

 

Participants will be housed in the relaxed environment of  Monte Castello di Vibio, free from tourists, souvenir stands and the stress of commercial travel.  From the time we pick you up at the Rome/Fiumicino Airport (FCO) until we return you with our fond farewells, all your needs will be met.  Our workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

Take a look at the itinerary and contact us for more information on possible accommodation upgrades available within the village to further customize your stay!

 

Italy is synonymous in many minds with olive oil and it has traditionally produced some of the finest in the world! Here, in Umbria - the region called the Green Heart of Italy -  a land of olive trees, grape vines, wheat fields, and rich in ancient traditions - we are very fortunate to produce some of the finest oils in Italy. Our little village is surrounded by olive orchards in every direction and their yield has claimed numerous regional and national awards. This Green-Gold as it is sometimes called, is the pride of our region and our locality.  Those who have never experienced the flavor of freshly-pressed Umbrian pure virgin olive oil will be amazed by the complex flavor: smelling of the green of freshly cut grass, then rich and buttery, and finally - a spicy finish - it is among the most complex oils in the world!

From our mountain castle village, we are fortunate to be within a mornings walk of Passo del Palomba, a farm estate owned by Alessandro Gilotti and his wife, Claudia.  Sandro is an internationally renowned expert on olive oil, and owner of one of the most highly-regarded producers in the region. The couples passion for this land as well as for the oil and wine they produce, is infectious and participants will soon be won over by their enthusiasm for the health benefits of his oil and his vast knowledge of cultivation and production.

The course is designed for all levels of interest, those with a general interest in simply learning more about quality olive oil in  spectacularly beautiful setting will be equally enriched by the workshop as those with careers in the culinary arts, seeking to enhance their expertise and credentials. The week-long workshop, will consist of four, three-hour classes, held on the farm of the Passo del Palomba estate from Monday to Thursday.  Day-five will be held at our Asilo facility, where we will do a tasting paired with dinner, accompanied by local wines of note. Afternoons will be spent in Monte Castello with excursions to local wineries, food and wine tastings, and a truffle hunt.

Topics to be addressed in our time at Passo della Palomba:

• The history of olives and oil starting from the ancient Phoenicians, Romans, up to the present day.
• The production of olive oil in the world and the notion to understand the cultivated varieties (Cultivars)
• Classification of olive oils according to international rules
• How to read the labels trying to avoid misleading advertising until understanding how to select the best quality.
• How to use EVOO in the kitchen and eliminate the potential associated risks (Smoke Point)
• Specific tasting session of EVOO from various parts of Italy during which the participants are introduced to the tasting techniques aimed at appreciating the qualities of a good Extra Virgin Olive Oil and how to combine it with dishes whether they are gourmet or of all days
• Visit to one of our neighboring olive groves with explanations of the various Cultivars and cultivation techniques
• Visit to our modern two-phase company oil mill to understand the various processing steps to produce a high quality EVOO by comparing them with old and now obsolete extraction techniques.

 

During your stay, you will be housed at a beautiful and grand, 17th c. villa, located on a forested mountain overlooking Tiber valley.

Surrounded on all-sides by olive groves, carefully kept lawns and grand cypress trees, hedges of lavender and rosemary grace the landscape, with a vegetable garden for guest use - the setting is idyllic.  The stately villa itself is completely gated and fenced and features unique architectural elements, such as beautifully painted beamed and brick domed ceilings, terracotta tiled floors, stone walls, unique fireplaces, arched doorways and wooden-shuttered windows, all complemented by the stylish furnishing and decor throughout.  The designer kitchen features the most elegant contemporary appliances and features.The main house sleeps ten (four bedrooms, all en-suite). In addition, a stone cottage and sleeps 4 in 2 bedrooms, with a separate bathrooms, and provides several sitting and relaxation areas in addition to a very comfortable main lounge. A large upper terrace includes a shaded area, perfect for dining and appreciating spectacular sunsets and mountain views.  The lower patio surrounds a magnificent infinity pool.  The villa is a stunning property that will provide unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

 

  Join us in Italy for an inspiring workshop focused on building large-scale clay sculptures. This unique experience encourages experimentation in a safe, inclusive studio environment, allowing participants to push their technical boundaries without the pressure of keeping their work. We’ll troubleshoot technical issues together, fostering a spirit of collaboration and growth. In addition to hands-on building, you’ll spend a day in Florence, surrounded by iconic sculptures that showcase technical excellence. This immersive experience will not only expand your skills but also deepen your appreciation for large-scale art. We’ll also hold glaze and finishing demos featuring Trey’s under-glazing techniques as well as other surfaces for finishing sculpture. Participants are encouraged to bring small bisque ware pieces to glaze and finish. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your craft while exploring the beauty of Italy! Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided. Early Bird Workshop Special: Register and pay in full before December 22, 2025 and save 10%!  Just use Discount code: zejzwzeg when registering.

Related Events

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  Portrait Mastery in Umbria: A Two-Week Classical Realism Intensive with Constance Ramsey Bowden & Karen Warshal

  May 31 - June 14
• 

  Human Anatomy Intensive - ICA 2026 Renaissance Series

  June 14 - June 21
• 

  Oil Painting Techniques of the Northern Renaissance

  June 21 - June 28

Mastering Still Life in Oil Painting: The Play of Light and Shadow with Daria Most

We invite you to discover the enchanting world of still life through the technique of oil painting! This course will help you not only master practical skills but also unlock your creative potential by working with everyday objects and conveying their essence through the interplay of light and shadow. The course is suitable for both beginners and intermediate artists. 

What You Will Learn:

• Master the Basics of Composition: You will learn how to construct a harmonious still life composition, select objects, arrange them, and use lighting to enhance the visual effect.
• Work with Light and Shadow: You will understand tonal gradations and work with different types of lighting to accurately convey volume, structure, and atmosphere.
• Oil Painting Techniques: You will master the basics of working with oil paints and learn to harmoniously combine color contrasts and subtle nuances.
• Unique Approaches to Creating Still Lifes: You will experiment with painting still lifes in chiaroscuro and using mirrors to create optical illusions.

Course Program:

• Module 1: Introduction to the Art of Still Life
  Explore the history and significance of still life in art, studying various styles and approaches to painting.
• Module 2: Composition
  Understand the role of composition in still life, select and arrange objects, and learn lighting methods to enhance the visual effect.
• Module 3: The Play of Light and Shadow
  Study the "stain method" in graphic tonal explorations.
• Module 4: Basics of Oil Painting
  Explore contrast and nuance in color, the relationship between color contrast and nuance in still life, and work within a restrained palette with subtle color variations.
• Module 5: Still Life in Chiaroscuro
  Investigate the specifics of painting still life in chiaroscuro conditions.
• Module 6: Still Life and Mirrors
  Learn to use mirrors as reflective surfaces in still life compositions, creating illusions and optical effects.
• Course Finale: Exhibition of Completed Works
  Present your works, discuss achievements, and explore further opportunities in the world of still life painting.

 

 

 

The study of human anatomy in Italy is a long and distinguished tradition. The extraordinary anatomical theatres in medical schools at the University of Padua and the University of Bologna bear witness to this history and were among the first of their kind in existence. Even today, we marvel at the accuracy and lifelike intensity of the 17 th c. wax anatomical models in the Specola Museum in Florence, which were made to allow medical students to observe venous, muscular, and skeletal systems without a cadaver. In this regard, the study of anatomy in Italy has profoundly impacted not only our understanding of the human body, but also the study of medicine in the western world.

Surprisingly, this history also reveals much about the significance of the role of visual art in furthering science and medicine. In his brilliant series of lectures at the Art Students League in New York, artist, anatomist, and scholar, Robert Beverly Hale once said: “science had actually sprung from art, that it had developed in those great periods when artists had looked at nature very closely and carefully, and had tried to record exactly what they saw. That, what we explained, was what scientists have been doing ever since.”

To support Hale’s observation one need look no further than Leonardo’s anatomical studies. These drawings are incredible not only for their accuracy and beauty as works of art, but also as a highly accurate analysis of function, of what anatomist George Bridgeman referred to as “the human machine.” Leonardo is perhaps unequalled in his analysis of the form of the human body as a manifestation of the interrelationship of functioning systems. It is known, for example that Leonardo once injected the heart of an ox with hot wax, then made a glass model of the casting. He then pumped the model with water to analyze the circulation of fluids in the human heart. Incredibly, Leonardo’s conclusions were not fully corroborated by cardiologists until the 1980’s.

The objective of our Human Anatomy intensive is to follow in this tradition. Thus, we will not only identify anatomical structures of the human body, but we will also analyze the function of those structures and their effect on its outward form. Throughout the workshop, we will reference functional systems in understanding their manifestation in surface anatomy of the figure.

Our focus will be on the skeletal and muscular systems, with some analysis of the major arteries of the venous system. We will work from a variety of sources, including real human skeletons as well as drawing from our collection of anatomical models and plaster casts. Our medium in the course will be various drawing media in large-format sketchbooks as a means of note taking for the course.

Our approach will be in the form of lectures and hands on drawing focusing first on the skeletal system. We will draw from real human skeletons as well as anatomical models. We will explore one area of the body at a time, first in analyzing the skeletal structure of the torso. Afterward, we will move on to the head, arms, and legs, as well as hands, and feet. Participants will produce life-sized drawings with charcoal on heavy paper as well as drawings in sketchbooks of details such as joint articulations.

Afterward, the course will focus on the muscular system first through lecture and note-taking then by drawing from anatomical models, plaster casts, and the live model, in the same order. However, we will in exploring the muscular system we will utilize tracing paper and colored pencil, in order to add layers of muscles over our previous skeletal drawings.

In addition to the intensive schedule of daily drawing and lecture, we will make an excursion to the famed Specola Museum in Florence where we will draw from their collection of 16 th to 18th c. wax anatomical sculptures. The incredibly lifelike flayed figures are shockingly lifelike - at once factual and at the same time, powerfully expressive. Here, the wax models will provide an overview of the skeletal and muscular systems as well as an introduction to the venous system.

 

Throughout the workshop, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio. Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

Of Sibyls and Source: Performance in the Landscape is a two-week exploration of live art in geo-mythic sites in the Central Italian regions of Umbria and Marche.

This dynamic residency is guided by research, inquiry, and connection through myth-making and embodied presence in/with/of the land. We will spend three days exploring the Parco Nacional di Sibilline, part of the Apennines named for the Sibyl, or prophetess of antiquity, who is believed to have lived in a cave at the top of Monte Sibilla. This includes a day-long hike to the top of Monte Sibila and an excursion into the Gola dell' Infernaccio, a protected landscape of ancient beech trees and gorges crossed by an ancient pilgrimage trail. We will experience sites of ritual and esoteric rites related to the myth of the Sibyl mentioned in literary sources as well as  living local folk traditions dating back thousands of years.

Our time together will also include day trips to the Nera River with Roman ruins whose source is the Monti Sibillini and entrance into the remarkable Frassasi Caves. Performances may take place at any or all of these locations including the impeccably maintained medieval town of Monte Castello di Vibio, our home base. At the conclusion of the residency we will hold a screening and live performance event in Monte Castello di Vibio.  Our group includes a collaborative documentarian, misael soto, to help participants realize our work through video documentation as well as other methods in addition to providing critical feedback.  (see below).

Please note this Residency includes physical complexities: moderate hiking up to an altitude of 7654 ft (2333 m), cold-water wild swimming and a cave visit. Applicants are responsible for their own physical wellbeing. With these logistical and locational considerations in mind, a brief Project Proposal (of approximately 300 words) is required for this workshop. Additionally, please specifically identify project proposals related to Parco Nacional di Sibilline, Nera River and Frassasi Cave for consideration. Please submit the proposal with a current CV and images of recent work (or link to a website) via email to: icarts.info@gmail.com  Responses will be issued within 48 hours.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your Residency package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO), aboard our comfortable private bus; single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available); 3 meals* per day, when on campus, Monday-Thursday; Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (when on campus) No meals are served on Friday - our excursion day - unless previously arranged. Your workshop includes the excursions below, however,  many additional options are available for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bilingual support is provided. *Meal service is provided while in Monte Castello only, unless otherwise noted. Meals on excursions and admissions are not included in the cost, unless specifically noted in the itinerary.

Our Documentarian

Born in Puerto Rico (1986) and based in Miami, misael soto’s practice interrogates and subverts contextually associated everyday objects and systemic roles, disrupting and manipulating space, systems, and frameworks. The publicly accessible, time-based, and ephemeral work involves interventions made upon existing objects, performative activations, institutional mediations, and is often a combination of these elements. misael received their MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (2018) and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor's Degree in Art History from Florida Atlantic University (2008). misael was the first ever Art in Public Life Resident with the City of Miami Beach's Department of Environment and Sustainability and Oolite Arts, where they founded the Department of Reflection. Beyond their public artworks which they have shown extensively for many years, misael has exhibited at MCA Chicago, Open Engagement 2015, the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami, Material Art Fair in Mexico City, David Castillo Gallery in Miami, and Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale, amongst others.

 

 

Stories in Clay with Gerit Grimm

 

This workshop delves into the precise methods and sophisticated tools essential for crafting a bust directly from a live model. Participants will explore in-depth the intricate anatomy, structural nuances, proportional considerations, cranial aspects, and facial features, while meticulously observing a diverse range of expressions and potential interpretations. Moreover, attendees will gain insight into the time-honored techniques employed by Italian and European old Masters. The program features a blend of interactive group discussions and personalized demonstrations tailored to participants' needs. Open to individuals of all skill levels, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to engage with the art of portraiture.

During the workshop, we will also take a day trip to Perugia in order to visit the National Gallery of Umbria and view their remarkable collection. Afterwards, we will stop in Assisi in order to visit the Church of San Francesco, one of the great monuments of Italy, that features works by Giotto and Cimabue as well as an "all-star cast" of early Renaissance artists!  As a special treat, we will make a brief afternoon visit to see the incredible marble sculpture inside and outside of the Duomo of Orvieto, one of which the most remarkable examples of Italian Gothic architecture with some of the most renowned late medieval marble sculptures.  The opportunity to observe and discuss these great works of Italian art will enhance your understanding of workshop topics, while also enriching your knowledge of the history of art.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO) aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.  Materials for the course will be available in the ICA Art Supply store in Monte Castello.

Tools List BUST IN CLAY

 

 

 

Situated in one of the most beautiful regions of Italy, the idyllic medieval hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio, provides both amazingly picturesque vistas as well as unique challenges for the painter. Majestic mountains stairstep their way into the distance, as their deep green forested hillsides fade to blue gray. The famed, Tiber River, winds like a giant serpent through the valley on its path to Rome, and farm fields and meadows become ribbons on hillsides.

In describing this environment, one cannot help but wax poetic about the opportunities that it provides for the landscape painter. Itis a place both steeped in history, yet constantly changing. Gates open to panoramas that locals refer to as Porta Montanna (“Door to the Mountains”) and the south-facing, Porta Maggio (“Door of May”). To the southwest, where mountain ridges collide above the village of Doglio, the Bocca della Stregna (the Witches Mouth) sometimes reveals the source of its name as the moaning wind circles through its crevices. Castles in the distance appear and disappear in the morning fog as swallows dart in and out of a vista called simply, il Mare (the sea). Far off in the distance to the east lie the mysterious Sibillini Mountains, home of the famed Sybill and the mountain towns of Norcia and the breathtaking valley of Castelluccio, where wildflowers carpet the ground and wolves still howl at night. It is a timeless landscape where past and present meet in the eyes of those lucky enough to experience it. This workshop and your immersion in the surroundings will provide unforgettable experiences. This non-touristed location will allow you to enjoy this small town and its authentic ambiance.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio. Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

The immersive workshop may be taken for one or for two weeks in duration.  In either case, participants will cover the essential aspects of outdoor landscape painting: choosing a motif, working quickly and directly, controlling value and color to create compelling harmonies, and thinking intentionally about form.

We will meet together four days a week, with weekends allowing time for independent painting time and Friday’s reserved for excursions. The first week will include ample instruction and support from the instructor. The second week students will be guided as they approach the landscape with more confidence and clarity. Painting sessions will be scheduled generally: 9am-1pm and 4pm-7pm Monday-Thursday.

Included in the workshop are two excursions: to Florence in Week 1 and to Assisi to see the unforgettable Giotto frescos in the Church of San francesco, in Week 2.

This workshop is directed towards artists, educators, and students interested in exploring the dynamics of classical Italian art and it’s relationship to Contemporary painting.  Our broad objective is to share experiences first hand of great works of Italian Art, and consider these experiences in relation to our own studio practice.

Using the remarkable landscape, art and architecture of Umbria and Tuscany as inspiration, this workshop investigates the ways in which perceptual study and abstraction can combine to form contemporary painting language.  In the beautiful setting of Monte Castello di Vibio, we begin with drawing and painting in the village and surrounding landscape.  Daily work sessions in private studios are augmented with excursions, slide talks, and group critiques. We will travel the “Piero Trail” to see the major frescos of Piero Della Francesca in Arezzo, Sansepolcro and Monterchi.  We will also visit Assisi, Perugia and spend two days in Florence to study works by Giotto, Perugino, Fra Angelico and many more great works of Renaissance art.

 

Midway through our journey, we will further these objectives through viewing paintings by Piero della Francesca in Monterchi, Sansepolcro, and Arezzo, before moving on to Florence.  We arrive in Florence, to see the city in the golden light and enjoy a fantastic dinner! The next morning, we will visit the Monastery of San Marco, after which, participants will have the remainder of the day to explore according to their objectives. The following day, proceeding by train to Assisi, we will see the great S.Francis cycle of Giotto in the Basilica of Saint Francis, before we re-join our bus on our return to Monte Castello!  The following week, participants will focus on their objectives in our serene village.

Our workshop is centered  in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.Here, your stay is all-inclusive, from the time our welcome service greets you at the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO) - aboard our comfortable private bus - until our bur returns you to FCO and our staff bids you a farewell at the airport, our staff facilitates comprehensive services. In Monte Castello, we allow complete focus by providing: single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday. (Additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee.) Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided. All these factors, allow for an environment of focus and clarity, in which participants are free to integrate all of the experiences of this wonderful country and its extraordinary artistic traditions.

 

 

 

 

 

Italy is synonymous with stunning landscapes, rich cultures, - and great food and wine! Central to this matrix is its rich and healthful olive oils. From olive groves that grace hillsides to the magnificent ancient specimens that pre-date the Roman Empire, these trees form a part of the fabric that unites landscape and culture.

In our  Flavors of Italy workshop, we will serve a "tasting menu" of the landscapes of our remarkable region. Immersed in its stunning scenery, our focus in this "a la carte" overview, will be to feast on central Italy's cultures, food and wine, - and of course its extraordinary olive oil!

As soon as we pick you up at the Rome/Fiumicino Airport, we will begin our with "sampler" by going all the way back to the volcanic origins of Italy with a visit to beautiful crater-lake - Bolsena where we will spend the night on its tranquil shores in the classic, Hotel Columbus. Afterward, we will travel to Tombolo, a 5-star seaside luxury resort, (https://www.chgroup.eu/tombolo/) where we will spend two lovely evenings while enjoying the sea, the spa, and the wonderful facilities. On Day 4, we will view the splendid cathedral of Siena - the Duomo- with a guided tour followed by a sampling of the famed traditional pastry's of the city.  From here, we will travel on to our Umbrian village of Monte Castello di Vibio. In this beautiful and tranquil medieval hill town the vistas seem endless, the nights are cool, and air if filled with culture and history.

Umbria is the region called the Green Heart of Italy.  It is a land of olive trees, grape vines, wheat fields, and rich in ancient traditions.  In the farms surrounding our village,  we are very fortunate to produce some of the finest oils in Italy.  Those who have never experienced it, will be amazed by the complex flavor: smelling of the green of freshly cut grass, then rich and buttery, and finally - a spicy finish!  Our "Green -Gold" as it is sometimes called, is among the most complex oils in the world!  We are fortunate to be, just uphill from Passo del Palomba, a farm estate owned by Alessandro Gilotti and his wife, Claudia.  Sandro is an internationally renowned expert on olive oil, and owner of one of the most highly-regarded producers in the region. The couples passion for this land as well as for the oil and wine they produce, is infectious and participants will soon be won over by their enthusiasm for the health benefits of his oil and his vast knowledge of cultivation and production. We will spend three mornings with Sandro and Claudia sampling oils and wines they produce, while learning about the history and the health benefits of this incredible food!

We will spend 4-nights in Monte Castello before moving on to Castello del Postignano. The castle spilling down the mountainside looking out over the mysterious Sibillini Mountains was restored by American architect, Norman Carver and is now a unique luxury resort and will be a fascinating place to spend an evening enjoying great food and wine. On day 9, we will depart Postignano for the Adriatic Coast of Italy where we will visit the extraordinary Conero Rivera.  Turquoise water, and huge white cliffs make this an area of stunning beauty and a destination for seafood lovers. After visiting a local, mountain winery, we will stay the fascinating,  Fortino Napolianico, in Portonova.  This former fort of the Napoleonic age, has been converted into a stunning hotel.  Sitting directly on the sea, the location provides exceptional beach access, pool with grassy yard, and gourmet seafood meals. On Day 11, we will head back for a final night in Monte Castello stopping en route at Assisi for a brief tour of the church of San Francesco, one of the most important churches in Italy. The following day, we will head to Fiumicino for an overnight at the beautiful Isola Sacra Hotel.  The next morning, participants will be transported to the FCO airport for their morning flights.

 

 

The most basic and important skill that an artist must acquire is the ability to draw. Drawing from plaster casts of Ancient and Renaissance sculptures is one of the most traditional and effective ways for an artist to enhance their drawing skills.

Here in Monte Castello di Vibio, students will work from plaster casts in our collection. Striving towards accuracy at all times, students will render a drawing of a cast of their choice. The process is intensive and time-consuming, but those willing to put in the hard work will be rewarded with heightened skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives as artists.

As part of the course, participants will make an excursion to view original drawings in the Gabinetto dei Disegni at the Galleria degli Uffizi in Florence.  Seeing a drawing touched and executed by the hands of masters such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raffaello is an experience one never forgets.

A VERY SHORT HISTORY OF CAST DRAWING

From ancient times until the nineteenth century, the ability to realistically depict the visual world was mandatory for any working artist. An essential part of an artist’s training was drawing from plaster casts of Ancient and Renaissance sculpture. This practice dates back to the late Renaissance, although perhaps the most famous cast drawing program is the one executed in the French academies of the 19th century. Only upon completion of an intensive period of cast drawing were students permitted to work from the live model. The rigor of cast drawing produced countless artists with highly refined skills, many of whom created masterpieces that fill our museums to this day.

Today we have a less structured system but the training to become a highly skilled artist is no less rigorous. Classical programs always involve a heavy emphasis on cast drawing, allowing students to practice proportion, understand shading, and gain an appreciation of the aesthetics of the classical world.

Materials for the course will be available in the ICA Art Supply store in Monte Castello.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO) aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

A knowledge of surface anatomy and its underlying structure has been a central tenet of figurative art throughout history.  This is nowhere more evident than in the art of the Italian Renaissance, when man himself became an appropriate subject matter for works of art.

Artists such as Leonardo drew from dissections to better understand the underlying structure of the body and the mechanics of the human figure.  Since this time, drawing from the nude has been the bedrock of an artist’s training, and the study of human anatomy continues to be an essential part of that process.

In this two-week workshop, you will draw daily from the live model, improving your ability to see line, proportion and form. You will also study human anatomy in depth, utilizing the rich collection of resources available at the ICA.  Your growing understanding of anatomy will enable you to draw contours and render values with a greater degree of accuracy.  In short, you will learn to draw better figures.

Six centuries ago, in the Renaissance city of Florence, Michelangelo and Leonardo began the first in depth studies of anatomy since the ancient Greeks.  The drawings they created remain among the most beautiful in Western art. You will have the unique opportunity to view original drawings by these masters and others up close during our visit to the Gabinetto dei Disegni at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.

We will also take a day trip to Rome to visit the Capitoline Museum and the Palazzo Massimo, both of which house Greek sculptures considered the most magnificent ever created.  The opportunity to observe and discuss these sculptures will enhance your understanding of anatomy and form, while also enriching your knowledge of the history of the figure in art.

Materials for the course will be available in the ICA Art Supply store in Monte Castello.

 

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO) aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

Dive into the captivating world of Italian wines with our immersive workshop on Italy's indigenous grape varieties! These autochthonous grapes are uniquely adapted to the specific soil, climate, and traditions of their region, resulting in wines that are truly distinctive. Italy is home to an impressive diversity of these grapes, with 545 officially registered varieties. Each one has its own unique flavor profile and a rich history that reflects Italy's deep-rooted winemaking heritage.

In recent years, Italian winemakers have been bringing back these nearly extinct grape varieties, creating wines that celebrate the authentic flavors of Italy's varied terroirs. In this workshop, you'll learn about these rare grapes and their fascinating histories, and, when possible, meet the passionate producers who are reviving them. We’ll provide printouts to enhance your learning experience, conduct tastings of these unique wines, and offer visits to Umbrian and Tuscan wineries

On the first day, you'll delve into the winemaking process, explore different types of terroir and their effects on wine, and learn how to properly assess wine using visual, olfactory, and gustatory senses, all under the guidance of a professional sommelier, whose knowledge of  rare and ancient grapes is truly impressive.  Even those familiar with the wines of Italy will discover a whole new dimension to Italian wine.

The workshop is led by renowned food and wine critic and sommelier, Rowena Dumlao. With her guidance, you'll explore wines from each of Italy's 20 regions. Rowena has meticulously selected 2 wines from each region, highlighting the country’s remarkable vinicultural diversity. Each day includes an informative presentation followed by a tasting session featuring 8 distinctive wines, allowing participants to sample over 50 different wines throughout the workshop.

A day-rate price of  € 280 per day or € 950 for the week without meals or accommodation is available for local residents.

For guests staying with us as well as for day-visitors, the itinerary is as follows:

Monday, September 15, Wines of: Umbria, Abruzzo, Marche, Tuscany

Umbria  

• Palazzone: Palazzone 2019
• ColleCiocco, Tempestivo 2020 (Spoleto Trebbiano Spoletino DOC)
• Scacciadiavoli: Montefalco 2010 Sagrantino (Sagrantino DOCG)

Abruzzo

• Bossanova: Trebbiano d’Abruzzo 2022 (Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, DOC)
• Umani Ronchi: Vellodoro 2022 (Pecorino, IGT)
• Piandimare: Monolith 2017 (Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, DOC Riserva)

Le Marche

• Montecappone: Federico II 2022 (Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore)
• Montecappone: Violante 2022 (Marche IGT Rosso)

Tuscany

• Arrighi: Valerius 2020 (Toscana IGP)
• Marchesi Antinori: Pian delle Vigne 2015 (Brunello di Montalcino)
• Castelvecchi: Lodolaio 2015 (Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva)
• Fattoria di Calappiano: Collegonzi 2020 (Toscana IGT)

Tuesday, September 16, Wines of: Trentino-Alto Adige, Valle d’Aosta, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Veneto

Trentino-Alto Adige

• Foundazione Edmund Mach 2022: Trentino Kerner (Trentino DOC)
• Cantina Tramin: Hexenbichler 2022 (Sudtriol – Alto Adige DOC)
• Hofstatter: Lagrein 2021(Sudtirol – Alto Adige DOC)

Valle d’Aosta

• Cave Mont Blanc: Rayon 2020 (Valle d’Aosta DOC)
• Les Cretes: Torrette 2023 (Valle D’Aosta DOP Torrette)
• La Crotta di Vegneron: Espirit Follet 2020(Valle d’Aosta DOC)

Friuli -Venezia Giulia

• Attems: Ribolla Gialla 2022 (Venezia Giulia IGT)
• Tenuta Mccan: Friulano 2022 (Friulano DOC)
• Colli di Poianis: Schioppettino di Prepotto Gli Stormi 2019 (Friuli Colli Orientali DOC)
• Marco Scolaris: Autoctono 2021 (Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso)

Veneto     

• Bortolomiol: Grand Cuvée del Fondatore Motus Vitae 2020 (Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG)
• Az. Agricola Monte Zovo: Valpolicella Ripasso 2020 (Valipolicella DOC Superiore)
• Santi: Santico 2018 (Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG)

Wednesday, September 17, Wines of: Piemonte, Liguria, Emilia Romagna, Lombardia

Piedmonte

• Az. Agricola Stra: Stra Nas-cetta 2020 (Langhe DOC Nas-cetta del Comune di Novello)
• Poderi Gallino: Roero Arneis 2021 (Roero Arneis DOCG)
• Guido Porro: V. Lazzairasco 2019 (Barolo DOCG)
• Tenuta Montemagno: Nobilis 2018 (Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG)

Liguria

• Az. Agricola Laura Aschero: Pigato 2023 (Riveria Ligure di Ponente)
• Az. Agricola Laura Aschero: Rossese 2021 (Riveria Ligure di Ponente)
• Lunae: Albarola 2022 (Colli di Luni DOC Albarola)

Emilio Romagna

• Fattoria Paradiso: Pagadebit 2022 Vigna Rotonda 2022 (Romagna DOC)
• Fattoria Paradiso: Lo Spungone 2022 (Forli IGT)
• Cantina Ceci: Otello Ceci Nero di Lambrusco (Emelia IGT)

Lombardia

• Perla del Garda: Perla 2020 (Lugano DOP)
• Giorgi: Bonarda dellÒltrepo Pavese 2022 (Bonarda dellÒltrepo Pavese DOC)

Thursday, September 18, Wines of : Campania, Lazio, Basilicata, Molise

Campania

• Cantina di Marzo: Greco di Tufo 2016 (Greco di Tufo DOCG)
• Fratelli Addimanda: Acinell’ 2018 (Campania Bianco IGP)
• Tenuta Cavalliere Pepe: Bianco della Bellona 2022 (Irpinia Coda di Volpe DOC)

Lazio

• I Ciacca: Nostalgia 2019 (Maturano IGT Lazio)
• Casa Divina Provvidenza: Neroniano 2017 (Nettuno DOP)
• Principe Pallavicini: Poggio Verde 2021 (Frascati Superiore)
• Raimondo: Nemora 2015 (Cesanese di Affile DOC)

Basilicata

• Cantina Il Passo: Alberi in Piano 2017 (Aglianico Vulture DOC)

Molise

• Di Majo Norante: Rami 2021 (Falanghia del Molise )
• Di Majo Norante: Greco2022 (Molise Greco DOP)
• Di Majo Norante: Tintillia 2018 (Tintillia Dell Molise DOP)

Friday, September 19,Wines of: Sicily, Sardegna, Puglia 

Sicily

• Duca di Salaparuta: Calanica 2023 (Siclia DOC Grillio)
• Principi di Butera: Carizza 2022 (Siclia DOC Insolia)
• Planeta: Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2021 (Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG)

Sardegna

• Sella & Mossa: Alghero Torbato Spumante (Alghero DOC)
• Animas: Animas 2021 (Vermantino di Gallura DOCG Superiore)
• Argiolas: Iselis 2022 (Nasco di Cagliari)
• Cantina Mossa: Marmus 2021 (Cannonau in Sardegna DOC)

Puglia

• Az. Agricola Anna: Vega 2016 (Primitivo IGT)
• Az. Agricola Anna: Filo 2019 (Negroamaro IGT Salento)
• Susumaniello: Cabitza (Puglia IGP)

Calabria

• Benvenuto: Benvenuto Zibibbo 2022 (Calabria Bianco IGP)
• Marcisa: Natus 2019 (Calabria Rosso IGP)
• Senatore:  Arcano Riserva 2018 (Ciro Rosso Classico Superiore Riserva DOP)
• Santa Venere: Speziale 2022 (Calabria IGP)

 

Saturday: September 20, Umbrian Vineyard visits

Throughout the week-long experience, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio. The workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo daVinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with spectacular views, 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday.

Of course, throughout your stay, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

 

 

Experience some of the great mosaics treasures of the world and create your own mosaics!

Rick Shelley's comprehensive, two-week mosaic workshop welcomes both beginning and advanced mosaic enthusiasts.  Each week offers excursions to many magnificent treasures throughout Italy that will lead participants to a deeper understanding of mosaic arts.

Rick will teach you how to create mosaics.  At our studios in Monte Castello, learn to shape stone, glass and ceramic into tesserae. Experiment with glues and cements to adhere tesserae onto wooden panels. Work with the beautiful and traditional practice of gold-leafing glass.  Design and execute small mosaics using outlines, shadows and highlights - simple images, letters, or symbols are ideal subjects. You will learn first-hand, why mosaic is the most enduring form of pictorial art.  From our central location in Italy, tour outstanding monuments and collections in Rome, Ravenna, Venice, and more.  Visit mosaic schools and studios where you will meet Italian mosaic artists and study their techniques - all under the guidance of a master-mosaicist,  Rick Shelley. (To see Rick in action, see his video:"Making mosaics in Italy" 

The two-week format of the workshop, allows participants three options: Week 1 only/ Week 2 only/ or - both Weeks.

Week 1

• Duomo of Orvieto, one of the masterworks of world architecture, with splendid gold mosaics covering the upper part of the cathedral's facade.
• Palazzo Massimo - a museum filled with treasures from ancient Rome.
• Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - an early Christian Church with an expansive Cosmati floor and mosaics from the fifth century.
• Ostia Antica - an ancient port city of Rome with fine examples of mosaic floors from public baths and villas.
• Vatican Mosaic Workshop - where distinguished craftsmen create and restore masterworks
• S.Peters and the Vatican - the great basilica designed by Bramante and Michelangelo and decorated with micro-mosaic paintings and tapestries
• Cost of Week 1 (including the Saturday ONLY Infiorate visit, described below) is: € 3199

Infiorate Week-end

On Saturday and Sunday, June 1 and 2, we have the extraordinary opportunity to visit the annual Infiorate of Spello.  The Infiorate, is a festival held on the feast of Corpus Cristi.  In Spello, the Infiorate is is a breathtaking event in which residents stay up all night on June 1, creating a wondrous "mosaic of flowers." Literally, the streets are covered with carpets of flower petals arranged in designs as well as images. (For wonderful insights into the festival and how these, "flower petal mosaics" come into being, see Michelle Damiani's wonderful website.)  The fragile "tapestry" lasts only until June 2.  With this schedule in mind, those in Week 1 only will attend the Saturday set up of the event. Those in Week 2, will be present for the procession through the streets of flowers.  (Anyone wishing to add an extra day to a one week event, in order to experience both days of the Infiorate, may do so on a "day-rate" basis. Please contact us at: icarts.info@gmail.com for further info.)

 

Week 2:

Ravenna - a beautifully preserved city with monuments and mosaics from the 6th c.  Here we will participate in a day-long workshop with demonstrations on the Ravenna Method. 

Venice - where the magnificent church of San Marco, shimmers with mosaics inside and out. Here, we will visit the legendary Orsoni Furnace glassworks, and travel to the island of Murano to experience their incredible glassmaking traditions.

Cost of week 2 (including the Sunday ONLY Infiorate visit) is: € 3531

                   

Both Weeks:   The cost of  BOTH, week-long workshops is: € 5950 and includes both Saturday and Sunday Infiorate visits.

Studio work in Monte Castello

Between these excursions, the International Center for the Arts provides the perfect atmosphere to experience the mosaic arts. Surrounded by the Italian countryside, the studio at Monte Castello di Vibio is an oasis in which to work and learn.All the while, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of  Monte Castello di Vibio. Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday while in Monte Castello, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day.  On the final day of the workshop, participants will exhibit their work in our, Bocca al Luppo gallery with opening reception provided.  Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.  All supplies are included.

Our Mosaics in Italy with Rick Shelley workshop is a rare opportunity to study with a master of the medium in a country renowned for some of its greatest examples. All the while, participants will enjoy a rare immersion in traditional culture, enjoy incredible views made possible by our mountaintop location, delight in gourmet and traditional food prepared fresh by expert chefs from fresh, locally sourced ingredients all accompanied by excellent local wine (or optional selections from our wonderful Wine List, for an additional fee). It is a rare experience, available to only 10 participants.

 

 

 

 

In the 14th c. Sicilian painter, Antonello di Messina brought the new medium of oil painting to Italy. In his travels, he brought the medium to Venice, where artists such as Giovanni Bellini, adopted, and expanded the expressive potential of the medium. Perhaps one of the most influential painting teachers in history, Bellini’s pupils included some of the greatest figures in the history of the medium: Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. Their often huge, operatic paintings mark a kind of crowning achievement for the medium, and the processes they developed consequently influenced other great artists and schools of art that included Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Velazquez and countless others who have followed in their path.

This workshop will follow the oil painting methods of the great Venetian masters. Working from reproductions, participants will reproduce easel-sized works of the Venetian school of the 16th-18th c. They may also choose to copy a detail from larger Venetian masterworks. To as great an extent possible, students will use the same materials of 15th and 16th c. Venetian artists, many of which will be prepared by hand in class, according to traditional recipes.

Beginning on a uniquely coarse, stretched canvas (approximately 36” x 30”) prepared with rabbit skin glue and white lead, participants will apply a colored ground. This rich, colored surface establishes an overall, atmospheric tonality, that also functions as a very useful neutral color. This then, serves as the basis for the serendipitous approach to color and the remarkable atmospheric effects that are unique to this school of painting.

On this rich surface, participants will transfer perforated drawings with charcoal and a pounce as was done in this time. Afterward, earth colors, carbon black, and white lead ground in oil will be prepared by the class. With these basic colors, an underpainting will be developed using alternating layers of washes and thick impasto areas of white lead. Afterward, rich layers of transparent colors made primarily from pigments produced in in our Pigments and Paint Workshop will be applied. In the process, students will develop an understanding of the important terms, glaze (a dark, thinned color over a lighter surface) and scumble (a thin layer of white lead) as they seek to reproduce the sumptuous color and dramatic brushwork characteristic of the Venetian School.

During the class participants will have the unique opportunity to see remarkable examples of work by the Venetian masters in person during our excursion to the Pitti Palace in Florence.

Throughout the workshop, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio. Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes an excursion to Florence. Of course, throughout your stay, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

Price of the workshop includes all materials needed to produce the painting described above, except brushes, which will be available for sale at ICA in Italy. While it is unlikely that the painting will be completed in the timeframe allowed by the workshop, our goal is to give participants a sufficient understanding of the Venetian process in order to complete the painting at home. As part of the course fee, participants will be issued a unique folding stretcher that allows the painting itself to be folded into a carry-on luggage-sized parcel, even if not fully dry.

Oil painting developed in Northern Europe early in the 15th c. and Italian painters of the next generation quickly adopted the medium to their own unique vocabulary. Antonello di Messina is generally credited with the introduction of oil painting to Italy and more specifically, to Venice. Artists such as Giovanni Bellini, as well as Leonardo further expanded the expressive potential of the medium. The processes that these artists developed consequently influenced the whole history of Western Art. 

This workshop will follow their methods. Working from reproductions participants will use materials of the time, prepared by hand in a traditional way. Beginning on a wooden panel, prepared with rabbit skin glue and chalk gesso, participants will transfer their perforated drawings with charcoal and a pounce, then develop a wash drawing with genuine sepia ink, followed by an imprimatura – a colored “veil” - that establishes a tonality and a very useful neutral color. From here, oil paint ground in class will be used to develop the underpainting. Afterwards, rich glazes of transparent colors made primarily from pigments produced in in our Pigments and Paint Workshop.

 

Throughout the workshop, participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio.  Your workshop  package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino,Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes an excursion to Perugia. Of course, throughout your stay, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided. 

Price of the workshop includes all materials needed to produce the painting described above, except brushes, which will be available for sale at ICA in Italy. While it is unlikely that the painting will be completed in the timeframe allowed by the workshop, our goal is to give participants a sufficient understanding of the Northern Renaissance process in order to complete the painting at home. As part of the course fee, participants will be issued a unique case for the painting that allows the painting itself to be folded into a carry-on luggage-sized parcel even if not fully dry.

A hands-on workshop on producing painting and drawing materials according to historical methods. The intensive, week-long workshop is ideal for painters interested in gaining greater familiarity with their materials, academics and teachers interested in curricular development, art historians, and people interested in developing a deeper understanding of traditional works.

Born in 1360, painter Cennino d’Andrea Cennini, left a remarkable legacy, beyond that of his surviving works.

A student, of a student, of Giotto, Cennino left of us a remarkable and intimate record of the life and working processes of a painter in his time. His book is called, il Libro del’Arte, simply, “The Book of Art.” It provides insights into the training of the artists of his time, as well as that of the next generations of artists in Italy. Incredibly, this included some of the greatest figures in the history of Western painting: Masaccio, Fra Angelico, Leonardo, Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Raphael among others. To the reader of today, Cennini’s text provides the remarkable opportunity to participate in this legacy.

On a practical level, Cennini’s book is also a very useful guide to the production of pigments, paints, painting surfaces, and other materials of the medieval and Renaissance artist. In this however, it also reveals something larger than that of a recipe book. It speaks to a very special connection between artists and the materials they choose. Often, that connection resulted from artists making their materials themselves, by hand. Indeed, Cennini refers lovingly to the rare, almost spiritual beauty of, ultramarine blue to the easy, sensual qualities of a charcoal black as well as to their sometimes, tempestuous personalities of materials like, dragon’s blood!

What is revealed is a unique connection to the materials of the artist, in which all elements have significance. As translator, Daniel Thompson describes, “A very choice black was, and still is, made from peach stones; and almond shells were sometimes charred to produce another sort. To the outsider all these blacks would seem very much alike; indeed, they would probably be quite indistinguishable. But a painter of the medieval kind becomes familiar with the little quirks of personality in his pigments, and is affected by small subtleties which it is hopeless to try to define, subtleties not so much of color as of working quality, how the pigment feels, how it mixes, whether it tends to settle out of a color mixture, or stays nicely in suspension, and little things like that.” These “little things” can indeed have big effect to the artist who remains sensitive to the qualities of their materials, creating a bond that becomes a language of its own.          

We will use Cennini’s book as a basis for our exploration of making pigments and paints. Guided by the experience of our staff, in collaboration with our long-time supplier, Kremer Pigmente, and the advantage of modern chemistry and production methods, we will embark on a historical overview of pigments used by artists throughout the ages - actually, making many pigments from raw ingredients. We will observe sometimes miraculous transformations in color, creating beautiful and luscious pigments that will last …forever. We will then turn these colored particles into a variety of paints, pastels, and charcoal. Our goal will be to produce the following materials which participants will take home with them at the end of the workshop:

20 g. Jars of pigment as follows:

• • 3 natural iron oxide (earth colors)
  • 3 calcined (burnt) native earths
  • Carbon black

3 ml. Jars of pigment as follows:

• • Dye colors: carmine, sap green, madder red, and indigo

Inks as follow:

• • • Sumi ink sticks, Bistre ink, Sepia Ink, Iron gall ink, Walnut ink
    • Also: Quill and reed pens

50 ml tubes of oil colors as follows:

• • Titanium white
  • Yellow ochre
  • Red ochre
  • Green umber
  • Prussian blue
  • Lamp black

20 ml jar of

• • Copper-resinate green

Watercolors in natural mussel shell, as follows:

• • Gamboge
  • Carmine
  • Madder Red
  • Ultramarine blue
  • Sap green
  • Pastels as follow:
  • Titanium white
  • Yellow ochre
  • Red ochre
  • Greenish umber
  • Ultramarine blue

Pastels as follow:

• • Titanium White
  • Yellow ochre
  • Red ochre
  • Greenish umber
  • Ultramarine blue

 

In doing so, we will understand the processes of levigation, grading for optimal particle size, grinding, precipitation of lake colors, and many other processes. We will also make surfaces to be used in a variety of aqueous, solvent-based, and dry applications. At the end of the workshop, an excursion to the National Gallery of Umbria in Perugia, will provide real examples from Cennini’s time and later, which will illustrate both the beauty and the permanence of these materials.

Participants will be housed in the remarkably well-preserved Umbrian hill town of Monte Castello di Vibio. Your workshop package is all-inclusive, providing welcome and departure services and airport transfer from the Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (FCO). Aboard our comfortable private bus, single occupancy accommodations with shared bath (a wide range of upgrades with private bath are available), 3 meals per day Monday-Thursday, Prosecco brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday (no meals are served on Friday, our excursion day. Your workshop includes one excursion per week and many additional options are available on weekends for an additional fee. Of course, 24/7 access to facilities and 24/7 bi-lingual support are provided.

All materials for the class and the excursion are included in the cost of the workshop.

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  Portrait Mastery in Umbria: A Two-Week Classical Realism Intensive with Constance Ramsey Bowden & Karen Warshal

  May 31 - June 14
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  Human Anatomy Intensive - ICA 2026 Renaissance Series

  June 14 - June 21
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  Oil Painting Techniques of the Northern Renaissance

  June 21 - June 28