In this workshop, award winning painter, Adrienne Stein,  will reveal her secrets to creating lyrical, vibrant paintings and dynamic compositions in oil.   Through a combination of working directly out in the landscape, painting from a live model, as well as staging and composing photo shoots for references, Adrienne will cover every aspect of her process. All levels of experience are welcome. Don't miss this opportunity to study with Adrienne in an unforgettable setting!

Adrienne Stein is an award winning American artist living and working in Pennsylvania and Colorado. She holds an MFA from Boston University and a BFA Magna Cum Laude, from Laguna College of Art & Design. Adrienne studied under many gifted and influential instructors throughout the United States, France, and Italy.

Her paintings celebrate the natural world through bold, vibrant color. The lush magical environments and figures she depicts blend reality and fantasy, expressed through a world of symbolic imagery. 

Benvenuto!  My name is Mia Tavonatti, and although I am a recent transplant to Italy, I have had a deep love and appreciation for all things Italian, especially its art and cultural history, since I was a child making pasta with my nonna.  I have made La Volpaia my home and hope to share my love of the land, La Volpaia's rich 500-year-old history and traditional Tuscan comforts with you.  I am a lifelong professional artist, so La Volpaia enjoys a uniquely creative spirit and welcomes all who want to dig deeper into their own creative pursuits, or just relax by the pool and take in the sunsets with a good glass of wine!  I am no chef, but I can certainly provide the vino :)

Nestled in the heart of Chianti, La Volpaia is a captivating 20-acre property with a rich history. Built in 1521 by an aristocratic family still residing in the area, this enchanting villa has been meticulously restored by an architect/artist. Surrounded by 240 olive trees producing organic extra virgin olive oil, it offers a taste of Tuscan authenticity.

Featuring six bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, a well-appointed kitchen, two living rooms, and a dedicated office/reading room, La Volpaia seamlessly blends comfort and rustic elegance. The 20 acre property boasts a lavender field, an infinity pool with spectacular sunset views over vineyards and the Apennine mountains, and numerous outdoor spaces for relaxation, exploring, communing with nature or quiet contemplation.

Situated on a tranquil hilltop amidst vineyards and olive trees, La Volpaia provides a private, intimate escape, while its central location between Florence, Siena and San Gimignano ensures convenient access to Tuscany's cultural gems. This haven invites you to unwind, surround yourself with art, savor organic delights, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Chianti and the Tuscan countryside. La Volpaia, hosted by an award-winning painter and mosaic artist, is a living masterpiece. The 500-year-old walls bear witness to original artworks by esteemed artists, while the former barn serves as both an operational art studio and gallery. Internationally acclaimed artists teach painting and mosaics to students who journey here from across the globe. Sculptures punctuate the scenic landscape, making every moment at this ancient farmhouse a source of inspiration, fueled by the vibrant essence of creativity.

Airport transfers / Arrivals from Florence Airport (Peretola FLR) and Florence train station.

- Afternoon aperitivo  reception to welcome everyone, intro and kick off workshop.

- Welcome Dinner 7:30 o'clock

With its picturesque villages, rolling hillsides and unforgettable red wines, this tour is designed for the wine lover, foodie and travel enthusiast at heart!

You will visit 2 of the best wineries in the Chianti area in one day! 

Taste regional wines in an elegant family-run vineyard, enjoy delicious Tuscan delicacies, and acquire a wealth of knowledge on all matters wine and winemaking. Experience the best of small-production, high-quality Chianti and Chianti Riserva reds.

Plus, a visit to San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover this beautiful town and its medieval towers, enjoy the best gelato in the area with your family or friends, and wander through the extraordinary artisan boutiques.

We will then enjoy a late lunch with expert wine pairings at the most famous vineyard in San Gimignano.

Adrienne starts the day with a landscape painting demo, introduction of your palette, materials and setup

In the afternoon, students will paint in the landscape as Adrienne works with students individually.

That evening, Adrienne will present a view of her personal art journey, inspirations and influences.

Students set up and paint all day in landscape, with Adrienne working directly with each student. 

After lunch, Adrienne will demo while students continue to paint.

The morning will kick off with a photo shoot of a model surrounded by La Volpaia’s rich landscape, including her olive trees and neighbors vineyard - Adrienne will show you how to pose your model in various locations and lighting situations to achieve a poetic composition. Students can contribute to posing and also shoot their own photo references. 

Adrienne will also demo painting alla prima from her model in landscape. Students can watch or join in.

In the evening, the Fresh Pasta and Sauces Course is a culinary experience that will allow you to discover the art of making pasta by hand, following Italian traditions, and preparing delicious sauces to accompany your creations. The highlight of the experience is when you feast on the pasta you have prepared, seasoned with the sauces you have cooked during the course. This meal, served in a convivial environment, will be accompanied by selected wines that will complement the flavors of the dishes, offering a complete and authentically Italian gastronomic experience.

Start your day with a captivating exploration of Siena’s historic city center, guided by a local guide. Wander through its enchanting streets, admiring masterpieces of art and architecture. Soak in the beauty of Piazza del Campo while hearing the tales of the famous Palio, a horse race that has taken place here for centuries. Your private guide will also take you inside the stunning Duomo, a true gem and the most beautiful cathedral in Tuscany.

Next, unleash your creativity with a hands-on ceramics workshop in one of Siena’s historic artisan shops. Learn from skilled artisans and craft your own unique piece, capturing the essence of this timeless city.

After a break for lunch, dive into the world of medieval painting at a second workshop. Discover ancient techniques, from pigments made with egg yolk to the intricate secrets behind this enduring art form.

This immersive day in Siena combines history, art, and creativity, offering a truly memorable experience.

In the morning, Adrienne will demo working from photo reference from the previous day's photo shoot, as well as showing the process of selecting a photo and how to use it creatively.

Painting in landscape or from photo references. Adrienne will be coming around to assist and will demo in afternoon.

The last morning will be an optional group critique with each student submitting 3 images by email for Adrienne to critique in group setting.

More painting in the afternoon!.

Our last evening, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase one of Adrienne’s demo paintings 

Time for a Celebration!

Departures and transfers to Florence Airport (Peretola FLR) and/or train station.

- Airport departure at 6:30 am

- Train Station Departure at 9 am