This course uses systems, prompts and observational studies as reference for paintings inspired by the monuments, artworks, architecture  and culture surrounding us in Umbria. Participants will be encouraged to work on a portable scale--unstretched canvas or small panels of a uniform size--to create a cohesive body of work. Each session will start with daily warm-up drawings then painting. Site visits will focus on sketching as source material for our paintings; our initial visit to Florence will be to the historic pigment and art supply Shop Zecchi, located in a building that was once a school established by Byzantine monks fleeing Constantinople. The connections between the fall of Byzantium and the Renaissance will be examined as a way to more profoundly understand the history of the region. This course is open to artists of all levels committed to a studio practice; water based, non-toxic materials only.
 
 Please note: an introductory class will be held on Zoom prior to our meeting in Italy.