Introducing my Italian Art Retreats 2025

I am so excited be running two new art retreats in the stunning location of Puglia, Southern Italy which take place on the 3rd - 10th June 2025 (now sold out) and the 12th-19th June 2025 (recently added- places still available).

Having visited the region this Summer (you can read my blog here), I have handpicked the venue and the excursions to give you the most memorable experience. When it comes to inspiring scenery, beautiful architecture and a warm reception, then Puglia has it all.

Located in a lovingly and sympathetically restored 19th Century Masseria (traditional farmhouse) in Puglia, you will be able to immerse yourself in the culture and warmth of this beautiful part of Southern Italy. The venue is in the most incredible location, close to natural flamingo lakes, white beaches, crystal clear water, picturesque towns, villages and olive groves. You won’t fail to be inspired and to fall in love with the myriad of beautiful sights, sounds and tastes that this truly enchanting location has to offer.

At this expressive art retreat, you will learn how to:

• Better understand the role of shape, tone, perspective and composition

• Get to grips with timing and pigment control

• Create any colour you wish from a simplified colour palette and avoid muddiness

• Embrace a playful approach to the medium to help you create loose brush marks and convincing textures utilising salt, clingfilm, and masking fluid

• Break down complex forms, both animate and inanimate to depict paintings that read well

• Achieve depth, tone and vibrancy in a piece

• Find a harmony between loose and realistic brushwork

• Incorporate background washes and natural elements into your work such as water, skies, trees and foliage

• Paint from reference photographs and from life

• Capture a sense of time and place

In addition to painting with me, you’ll dive deep into the culture and warmth of this beautiful area. You will have the opportunity to visit the most beautiful baroque towns of Nardò and Lecce, to swim in the crystal clear waters of the renowned Punta Prosciutto beach, to ride horses along the Salento coastline and to learn essential Italian cooking skills from the wonderful chefs at the Masseria.

If you'd like to find out more about this Italian Art Retreat taking place in June 2025, please visit my website- https://www.sarahstokesartist.co.uk/italian-art-retreat

I hope to see you there!

Sarah Stokes