JEANETTE PLATANIA - HARPER

Italian & Sicilian Maiolica-Style

Painting Workshop -2025

May 5th to May 12th

Italy is renowned for its ceramics, with designs recognized worldwide. In this class, you'll create bright, whimsical paintings inspired by Italian and Sicilian designs, including those from Deruta. Using a simple technique, you'll learn to create bold acrylic works on paper, suitable for painters of any skill level.

Participants will leave with several completed pieces.

About the artist: Jeanette Platania-Harper is a natural artist whose work reflects her Sicilian-American heritage. Her maiolica-style paintings and modern henna designs are influenced by Sicily’s rich folk art traditions. Based in the Catskill Mountains, Jeanette owns Aunt Jet’s at 68½ Main Street, Delhi, NY.

LARS ELLING LUNDE

A Focus on Umbria 

Travel Photography On the Go

June 3rd - June 10th

Explore the breathtaking landscapes, art, architecture, and people of Umbria while honing your visual storytelling skills with acclaimed photographer Lars Elling Lunde. This hands-on, intermediate-level workshop focuses on understanding light, composition, and cultural sensitivity to elevate your craft. Through guided lessons and field practice, you'll capture the vibrant colors and textures of Umbria’s culture while refining techniques such as working with light, composing impactful shots, and mastering camera settings in a fully manual mode.

Each day combines morning discussions on techniques and goals with immersive fieldwork in diverse environments, rain or shine. Evening sessions provide opportunities to review your progress and gain personalized feedback, all in a relaxed, social setting. Essential equipment includes a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a suitable lens, and a love of documenting the world. With over 37 years of experience, Lars brings a wealth of expertise and a spirit of adventure to make this workshop both educational and unforgettable.

Candace Rudd brings her Catskills-based Twisted Sister Yoga to Casa della Zia for a much-needed retreat focused on unwinding, rejuvenating, and female bonding.

Trip highlights include rooftop yoga sessions overlooking the rolling hills of Umbria and guided visits to breathtaking Umbrian landmarks such as Assisi, Spoleto, and Norcia. These historic and inspiring locations provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and connection, making this retreat a truly unforgettable experience.