Central Coast Artists in Tuscany

Led by local artist Tricia Reichert, a group of Central Coast artists are on an art adventure in Tuscany!

Read about some of the artists experiences and enjoy the images they have shared with us!

For the first two weeks of this month, adventurous Central Coast artists are enjoying an up-close-and-personal introduction to art in Tuscany through the efforts of local art instructor Tricia Reichert. Held at the Verrocchio Art Center in Casole d’ Elsa, a hilltop medieval town south of Florence, students are learning watercolor journaling and other painting techniques both in studio and on the narrow, picturesque streets and pathways of this walled historic village.

Between drawing and painting sessions at the studio and within the village, there is personal time for a traditional siesta or lunch at one of Casole d’ Elsa’s quaint eateries. Just a short stroll for gelato or freshly baked goodies at one of the village’s two bakeries provides constant inspiration for art journals.

The Verrocchio Art Center presents a perfect setting for the workshop since activities can be focused entirely on-site and along the incredibly picturesque streets of the village. Continental breakfast is served at the center, while evening meals are provided on a patio with amazing views of the surrounding Tuscan landscape.

An accomplished artist, for years Tricia Reichert has been teaching art to individuals in workshops, at classes in her Arroyo Grande studio, and through Cal-Poly. These workshops in Italy are the first she has hosted outside of the United States. Given the enthusiasm of participating artists the first week of this year’s Italian art workshop, it will clearly not be her last. In fact, Tricia is already thinking through details of her next art adventure.

-Ron Cogan

Hello, my name is Guelnara Savard.

I’m writing to you from our class in Tuscany!

I can’t believe how quickly the week went by here in beautiful Casole d’ Elsa, where we have been enjoying out painting experience with our talented teacher, Tricia Reichert at the helm, as we paint the lovely landscapes and quaint scenery in this village. The director and owner of the Verrocchio Art Center, Nigel Konstram, is an extraordinarily talented artist, sculptor, and historian. It has been interesting to know more about him and see his works on display.

I can’t say enough about this painting adventure, except that it has been wonderful!! Tricia has truly made this a wonderful and well planned experience for all.

Ciao!

Guelnara Savard