Dear friends,
Are you ready for an unforgettable journey?
With over twenty years of calling Italy my home, I’ve discovered the unique magic and artistic inspiration each region holds.
Join us amidst the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany as we embark on a captivating journey filled with art, culture, and history, guaranteeing an experience like no other!
Situated in enchanting region of Maremma, southern Tuscany, nature and tranquility converge to create this unparalleled retreat.
Renowned for its pristine landscapes, rejuvenating spas, and exquisite local cuisine, this captivating region of Italy charms us with its hidden treasures.
From the majestic cities of Siena and Grosseto to the picturesque villages of Massa Marittima, Roccastrada, Montalcino, and Montemassi, each offering a glimpse into its rich history and heritage where echoes of the past resonate through time.
IN THIS eight DAYS AND seven NIGHTS, ALL-INCLUSIVE RETREAT, WE WILL EXPERIENCE A FULL IMMERSION OF THE SENSES
We’ll have plenty of time for creating art, relaxing by the scenic pool or indulgent spa, exploring historic Siena, visiting local wineries, and immersing ourselves in nature.
Are you ready to join us for this exciting adventure?
“Katrina’s retreats are absolutely fantastic! I especially enjoyed learning new techniques and stretching my boundaries of what I usually do. This has opened up a whole new level of creativity, and by the end I felt like my level of skill was improving very quickly.” – Susan
DATES: 05 – 12 may, 2025
(eight days, seven nights – All Inclusive)
Limited spots available!
PRICE OPTION 1: Classic private room & bathroom
EURO 3,750 (APPROX usd 4,035 DEPENDING ON CURRENT RATE)
classic private room with queen bed & bathrooom on raised floor.
PRICE OPTION 2: Superior spacious private room, bathroom, & private garden
EURO 3,870 (APPROX USD 4,165 DEPENDING ON CURRENT RATE)
spacious PRIVATE BEDROOM on ground floor with queen bed & BATHROOM, & private garden with deck chairs
PRICE OPTION 3: superior romantic private room & bathroom
EURO 3,970 (APPROX USD 4,273 DEPENDING ON CURRENT RATE)
private room with romantic four-poster canopy bed, wood-burning fireplace, garden view, (raised floor), wellness kit (slippers & bathrobe), boiler with infusions in the room
Accompanying Spouses/partners not participating in art classes are welcome to join when reserving option 2 or 3. Additional cost per partner Euro 1,500 – (includes full room & board, plus all excursions)
A 500 Euro Non refundable deposit will secure your spot
Returning students from my 2023 & 2024 Retreats will get a special 10% off total price!
Your time with Katrina:
Your creative week will be a delightful mix of painting time on the beautiful terrace, fun excursions, cultural experiences, with plenty of free time to enjoy spa & outdoor pool, nature walks, and relax & regenerate.
In this retreat, Katrina will expertly lead you through a world of watercolor techniques, from portraits to landscapes and animals, all drawing inspiration from the stunning landscapes of Tuscany.
For our inspiration we will also take nature walks in the surrounding area with characteristic rolling hills with vineyards and flower fields.
We will also tour the historical city of Siena, view some of the most beautiful sculptures and artifacts, experience a Wine tasting tour, shop in little artisan boutiques, and sample Tuscan delicacies.
“This was an incredible experience! It was everything I hoped for and more… Katrina went above and to make it so enjoyable. I learned a lot and the food and incredible. We has a great balance between painting and excursions, and the great finale was so special. I look forward to going on another one again!” -Cindy
YOUR HOME FOR THE RETREAT
La Melosa resort & spa
Melosa Resort & Spa is a captivating retreat nestled in the scenic Tuscan countryside of Maremma.
Dating back to the 11th century, it originated as a Benedictine church before becoming the domain of the Aldobrandi family. This rich heritage infuses the atmosphere with a sense of timeless mystery and enchantment.
This charmingly decorated hotel features a blend of romance and elegance, complemented by a cozy gathering room and breakfast room, a beautiful terrace overlooking the panoramic swimming pool, indulgent spa facilities, and stunning nature.
Each room is named after a distinct flower and adorned in an elegant and artistic Tuscan style and includes luxury amenities such as: organic courtesy toiletries, a hairdryer, air conditioning, a minibar, and high-speed cable Internet connection, ensuring a comfortable and delightful stay.
Set against the backdrop of the Tuscan hillside, Melosa Resort offers a serene escape, perfect for rejuvenating your mind, body, and soul in harmony with nature.
It is conveniently located near the historical cities of Siena, Grosseto, and the UNESCO heritage site of Val d’Orcia, and promises an enchanting getaway immersed in timeless beauty and tranquility.
melosa Spa & Wellness
For additional costs on location, you can indulge in the serene sanctuary of a private Spa equipped with a sauna, Turkish bath, whirlpool hot tub, and tranquil relaxation room with a herbal tea corner.
Assorted Massage treatments are also available on reservation, such rejuvenating holistic therapies, sensorial massages, and indulgent Ayurvedic treatments.
(Alumni will receive a special 10% off the list price)
OUR TIME CREATING TOGETHER
For our creative time we will paint out on the beautiful terrace (weather permitting) overlooking the pool and Tuscan hillside and beautiful sunshine.
We also have a hall in the restaurant immersed in nature were we can paint on rainy days.
This retreat is dedicated to watercolor and I will guide you through many of my techniques, tips, and tricks with this medium.
In the evenings, we can unwind on the sofas in the cozy gathering room, savoring a cup of tea or a glass of wine while conversing, painting, or listening to the vintage record player.
“The learning experience with Katrina was awesome, also the meals and tours. 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.” – Suzi
DATES: 05 – 12 may, 2025
(eight days, seven nights – All Inclusive)
Limited spots available!
PRICE OPTION 1: Classic private room & bathroom
EURO 3,750 (APPROX usd 4,035 DEPENDING ON CURRENT RATE)
classic private room with queen bed & bathrooom on raised floor.
PRICE OPTION 2: Superior spacious private room, bathroom, & private garden
EURO 3,870 (APPROX USD 4,165 DEPENDING ON CURRENT RATE)
spacious PRIVATE BEDROOM on ground floor with queen bed & BATHROOM, & private garden with deck chairs
PRICE OPTION 3: superior romantic style private room & bathroom
EURO 3,970 (APPROX USD 4,273 DEPENDING ON CURRENT RATE)
private room with romantic four-poster canopy bed, wood-burning fireplace, garden view, (raised floor), wellness kit (slippers & bathrobe), boiler with infusions in the room
Accompanying Spouses/partners not participating in art classes are welcome to join when reserving option 2 or 3. Additional cost per partner Euro 1,500 – (includes full room & board, plus all excursions)
A 500 Euro Non refundable deposit will secure your spot
Returning students from my 2023 & 2024 Retreats will get a special 10% off total price!
“Katrina was a patient wonderful teacher who helped instill confidence in myself in both my art (inner critic squashed) and my self confidence to step outside the box and try new things, both in art and life. If I ever have the chance to join her again I would and for any other lucky students who can join Katrina in future retreats, you will not regret it, it is truly an experience of a lifetime that I will never forget. “ Louise B.
AT THIS RETREAT YOU WILL:
- Learn my expressive watercolor techniques
- Learn how to create beautiful portraits, animals, and/or landscapes in watercolor
- Learn how to be more intuitive and loose in your work
- Learn how to layer color to achieve luminous skin tones
- Learn how to gather inspiration from our surroundings
- Create beautiful and soulful art that you will treasure for years to come
- Enjoy an exclusive Tuscan wine tasting tour
- Enjoy the opportunity to experience Spa and massage treatments.
- Enjoy restorative nature walks in the Tuscan hillside
- Take refreshing dips in a beautiful scenic outdoor pool
- Experience the beauty and culture of this region
- Tour the beautiful historical city of Siena
- Enjoy delicious, healthy, Italian wine & delicacies
- Shop at local artisan shops and boutiques
- Meet and connect with artists from around the world
- and so MUCH MORE….
EXCURSIONS INCLUDED:
tour of the hisotrical city of Siena
Siena, a beautiful Tuscan hill town, traces its origins back to the Etruscans (c. 900–400 BC).
According to ancient legend, Senius and Aschius, nephews of Romulus, founded the city.
It is especially famous for the Palio di Siena, a medieval horse race that takes place every year in the Piazza del Campo, overlooked by the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia.
Siena boasts a rich artistic tradition, with notable Renaissance works still housed in its galleries and churches, such as San Domenico’s art by Guido da Siena from the mid-13th century, and the Siena cathedral (duomo) from the 12th century – a treasure chest of art, spirituality, and Romanesque-gothic architecture.
Santa Maria della Scala is another one of the majestic buildings within these cities walls. Once an ancient hospital, it was later transformed into one of the main Tuscan museums.
A rich tapestry of culture and charm, Siena invites us to stroll it’s medieval streets, where each step unveils magic and mystery from times past.
what this excursion includes
- Transportation to and back from Siena
- Professional tour guide for part of the day
- Shopping in the characteristic boutiques
- Lunch in Siena
- Sketchbook practice
- And SO MUCH MORE!
tuscan wine tasting experience
We will visit a delightful local winery that will walk us through the fascinating world of Tuscan winemaking.
As we explore the vineyards and wine cellar to gain firsthand insights into grape cultivation, winemaking techniques, and the artistry behind crafting fine wines, we will experience the flavors of various local wines along the way.
DATES: 05 – 12 may, 2025
(eight days, seven nights – All Inclusive)
Limited spots available!
PRICE OPTION 1: Classic private room & bathroom
EURO 3,750 (APPROX usd 4,035 according to CURRENT RATE)
classic private room with queen bed & bathrooom on raised floor.
PRICE OPTION 2: Superior spacious private room, bathroom, & private garden
EURO 3,870 (APPROX USD 4,165 DEPENDING ON CURRENT RATE)
spacious PRIVATE BEDROOM on ground floor with queen bed & BATHROOM, & private garden with deck chairs
PRICE OPTION 3: superior romantic style private room & bathroom
EURO 3,970 (APPROX USD 4,273 DEPENDING ON CURRENT RATE)
private room with romantic four-poster canopy bed, wood-burning fireplace, garden view, (raised floor), wellness kit (slippers & bathrobe), boiler with infusions in the room
y bed, wood-burning fireplace, garden view, (raised floor), wellness kit, slippers, bathrobe, infusions in the room
Accompanying Spouses/partners not participating in art classes are welcome to join when reserving option 2 or 3. Additional cost per partner Euro 1,500 – (includes full room & board, plus all excursions)
A 500 Euro Non refundable deposit will secure your spot
Returning students from my 2023 & 2024 Retreats will get a special 10% off total price!
INCLUDED IN YOUR RETREAT
- 7 nights lodging
- All meals during the retreat (Vegetarian options available, please notify ahead of time if this are required)
- Buffet breakfast & lunch
- Morning Coffee/tea break with snack
- A full three course dinner in the restaurant at the resort, with local wine included
- All tour and excursion fees, including tourist guide in Siena
- Lunch in Siena
- Tuscan Wine tasting excursion
- Collective (12 or 1pm) pickup from Florence airport to Resort
- Collective late morning transfer from Resort to Florence airport
- Buffet breakfast on day of departure
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- Travel costs / Airfare
- Passport fees, visas where applicable
- Additional nights lodging
- Extra beverages during the day / mini bar in room
- Spa entry (to Turkish bath, sauna, whirlpool hot tub)
- Massage & wellness treatments
- Lunch/dinner on day of departure
- Extra nights lodging
I CAN’T WAIT TO WELCOME YOU HERE IN ITALY!
