Connect & Create Retreat, Bologna 2025

Dear friends,

Have you been longing for a creative adventure?

I’m so excited to invite you to Italy, a magical country rich with a unique history of art and culture, beautiful nature, and culinary delights!

Situated in the central-northern region of Italy on at the foot of the Appennine Mountains, Bologna has become my home for over twenty years now.

In this place of exquisite beauty and magic, I instantly fell in love with its ancient culture, dramatic landscapes, beautiful language, and delicious food.

Italy is a place of endless inspiration for creativity with its historical architecture, vivid colors, ancient culture, and many myths and legends…

As you stroll down medieval cobble stoned streets, and wander around discovering beautiful sculptures and treasures, you discover the intimate essence of this magical country.

IN THIS 9 DAYS AND 8 NIGHTS, ALL-INCLUSIVE RETREAT, WE WILL EXPERIENCE A FULL IMMERSION OF THE SENSES

We will have plenty of time creating beautiful and soulful art, exploring the historical cities of Venice and Bologna, as well as spending restorative time immersed in nature.

Are you ready to join me for a life-changing, Italian adventure?

“This retreat experience was exactly what I needed on so many levels and soul layers. I broke through so many mental barriers and fears in the little gentle, caring community of art sisters. I’m so grateful to have had such a supportive teacher who reminded me to relax and simply trust the process, boosting my confidence with each layer.” – Christine

dates: June 09 – 17, 2025

(Nine days, eight nights – All Inclusive)

join us in bologna

Returning students from my 2023 & 2024 Retreats will get a special 10% off total price!

price option 1: shared room & bathroom

euro 3,450 (approx 3,765 usd depending on current rate) for a shared bedroom with loft, & bathroom (price per occupant)

price option 2: private room & bathroom

Euro 3,950 (approx USD 4,310 usd depending on current rate) for a private bedroom with double bed & private bathroom

Accompanying Spouses/partners not participating in art classes are welcome to join when reserving option 2.

Additional cost per partner Euro 1,600 – (includes full room & board, plus all excursions)

A 500 Euro Non refundable deposit will secure your spot

This retreat will be an intimate group size of only 6 students, so limited spots are available!

Your time with Katrina:

Your creative week will be a delightful mix of studio time, fun excursions, cultural experiences with plenty of free time to relax and regenerate.

Katrina will guide you through two full projects varying from portraits & figures, spirit animals and fantasy creatures, all inspired by the faery realms & surrounding nature.

I will take your through my mixed media techniques, and how I finish a painting in oils.

For our inspiration we will do grounding meditations before lessons, spend time in the botanical gardens, take nature walks in the surrounding hills with vineyards and walking trails.

here are a few examples of my demos from the last retreats:

“This was much better than I expected! It was much more than a retreat – a life experience I will treasure forever. There was a great balance of painting, activities, great food, and wine. And I loved that Katrina’s family was involved in the meals and excursions, it gave me a sense of family.” Silvina

We will also tour the colorful winding streets of Bologna and Venice and view some of the most beautiful architects, sculptures and artifacts, go shopping, and sample typical Italian food and wine.

“This retreat was nurturing on so many levels, starting with Katrina’s love and care, the accomedation, environment, food and wine. I loved our painting process, the flow in general was very relaxing, as well as the group size. The staff on the bio-dynamic farm was exquisite and I loved the views, & nature. I will cherish this experience.” – Isha

YOUR HOME FOR THE RETREAT

Fattoria Quercia agriturismo

Fattoria Quercia is a beautifully rustic and charming family-run farmhouse immersed in nature.

Situated amidst the beautiful hills, medieval castles, and vineyards near Bologna, it is rich with ancient history and culture.

Completely immersed in nature, with a peaceful and restorative atmosphere, our delightful hosts Federica and Andrea welcome us with their special Italian hospitality.

The breathtaking view of the valley, vineyards, and forest leave many opportunities for hiking and long restoring walks in the nature.

On warm days we can take a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool as we enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the property.

This organic farm grows it’s own vegetables, fruits, and wine from it’s surrounding vineyards and orchids, and produces it’s own meat and eggs, and grain.

You will be able to enjoy delicious authentic and healthy Italian home cooked meals in a beautiful hall with a view overlooking the hillside.

Fattoria Quercia makes their own handmade pasta, bread, marmalades, and desserts, all produced directly from the farm.

our time creating together

For our creative time we will paint in the beautiful botanical garden (weather permitting) as we enjoy all the spring blooms and beautiful sunshine.

We also have a large hall indoors were we can paint on rainy days, relax on the sofas in the evenings and enjoy a cozy cup of tea or coffee in-front of the fireplace.

“I had the best time! The learning experience was awesome, also the meals and tours, plus the cooking class! I learned new techniques that I will surely apply in my painting process, and I loved the companionship in the group. Thank you for these wonderful days and sharing your little art secrets with us. And the goodbye surprise concert was beyond my expectations!” – Suzi