Painting and Drawing at the Monastery of Sant'Andrea in Italy

The former monastery of Sant'Andrea in Collevecchio serves as our retreat center, with the old cells converted into single or double rooms, featuring a shared dining hall, a charming, shaded courtyard, an outdoor terrace, and a large chapel that now serves as a workshop space or studio.

If we get too hot during the creative process, we head to the nearby village pool. Participants stay in the monastery in the former monastic cells. For this reason, there are a few single rooms without private bathrooms, and therefore no surcharge. A surcharge applies for single occupancy of double rooms, as well as for single rooms with private bathrooms.

All rooms are lovingly but very simply furnished.

Important:
May course: Since this course is one day shorter, meals cost only €600.00.
July course: Accommodation and meals are to be paid directly to the monastery and cost €695.

We’ll be treated to delicious meals right on site. Whenever possible, we’ll use fresh ingredients from local producers. A professional chef will prepare everything fresh for us—vegetarian and mostly organic. The cuisine is light and delicious, following the principles of Mediterranean cooking. There’s sure to be something for everyone. Meals are included in the price of the accommodation! Meals are included in the price for the monastery (€695), not in the course fee!

The art course runs for 6 hours a day under the professional guidance of artist and art instructor Marina Buening: over six days (the dates always include the arrival and departure days). We work for 3 hours in the morning and then another 3 hours after a longer lunch break. In the morning, we plan the day and go over the day’s tasks and instructions. In the afternoon, you’ll continue working intensively on your own projects with the support of the course instructor.

During the course, we’ll also take short excursions and walks. Here you can sketch and get to know the surroundings.
We’ll start with sketching to warm up and build confidence, before moving on to larger projects. Then we’ll gradually introduce color and explore painting techniques. We’ll work with both watercolor and acrylic. However, there will also be completely free exercises where you’ll paint or draw more abstractly, even using unusual tools. This mix of working from nature and free exploration helps you discover entirely new dimensions and step outside your comfort zone. Each participant receives very individual guidance, so advanced students are also welcome to join. Please note that arrival and departure are on Sunday.

The best way to travel from Germany is by plane. From Fiumicino, the main airport, there is a train that goes directly to Collevecchio. From Ciampino, it’s a bit more complicated, but it’s still possible to catch this train. Of course, you can also travel by car or train. More information will be provided after registration. We will pick you up at the Collevecchio train station. Collevecchio is about 70 km north of Rome. You could also combine your stay with a trip to Rome. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.