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IMAGES FROM RECENT CLASSES Click photos to enlarge.
Dates:
11 – 20 June 2026 (2 days longer than our previous classes)
Location: Click link below for location images
Fees:
Receive a 7% discount on fees for each person you bring to a workshop!
Returning participants will receive a $125 discount on total fees
Per Person
$3,600 Double Occupancy
$3,850 Single Occupancy
$1,650 Non-Painters
Private Bath: $110
Course Description:
Our core program, Fundamentals, is founded upon the premise that open air painting presents unique challenges to the artist in the fleeting light and unpredictability of atmospheric conditions that require a specific technical approach in execution. In this class we introduce our method combining lectures, exercises & demonstrations that aim to teach participants to compose, develop and complete a painting quickly. The theoretical inspiration of the course is the approach to plein air study that was predominant in the 18th and 19th centuries by international artists working in Italy.
The program will be two days longer than it has been previously. The intention is to lessen the intense pace of the class while giving students more time to work on the concepts introduced in the instructed sessions.
Key Features:
- Exercises and demonstrations to present approach and technique for painting quickly from direct observation.
- Evening slide lectures on landscape history and technique reinforce daily painting experience.
- Field trips to Siena and Montalcino.
- Equipment (easels, palettes, umbrellas, chairs) and most materials (surfaces, brush tanks, solvents, paper towels) provided. Bring paint and brushes only!
- Painting in plein air only, RAIN or SHINE.
- 2 painting sessions per day, 1 of which instructed. 2 instructors provide more student support.
- Painting on isolated, private property in pristine landscapes.
- All media welcome but our expertise is oil painting.
- Daily reviews of work. 12 student maximum.
- Fees include accommodations, meals (breakfast, 4 of Maddine and Joe’s famous lunches, dinner plus wine!) equipment, all materials listed above, field trips, local transportation.
- Options for longer stays at reduced rates. Students may continue to use school equipment during this time.
Course Requirements:
- Basic Ability to Draw from Observation
- Prior painting experience even if basic level
- Physical fitness and ability to walk on uneven, hilly terrain.
View our Terms & Conditions