I am not an artist.  I am an art enthusiast.  I am one who stands in awe of those around me who can sketch, paint, create things I’ve never even imagined.  That’s what so amazing about my job at Adventures in Italy, I get to watch people create all the time.  I pop in to the studio to see what the artist are up to, but recently I got to sit in, or, more exactly, out.

Each week we have an outing to Palazzone Winery, about 10 minutes from our home away from home in Orvieto.  This particular week, Jacqueline Newbold wanted some extra time at the Vineyard to paint.  She knew it would inspire her artists to sit surrounded by beauty, sunshine and fresh air.

The Winery was happy to provide us with access to their shaded patio, from which you can see The Rock of Orvieto. Jacqueline did a little demonstration, and then everyone got to work.

There was a little chatter, a few questions, but mostly everyone just went about their business of creating.  When it was time for our actual wine tasting, almost 2 hours has passed and most said they were just getting into it!

But the ladies were good sports and moved on to the next activity…wine!

We did a final show and share at the end of the week where everyone showed their work.  For this non-artist, it was all so inspiring!  I can’t wait to see what the next groups will do!

Michelle Logue leads cultural and creative adventures in Orvieto, Italy. With a mandate to provide "travel that transforms", Adventures in Italy gives guests an immersive experience. After more than 15 years of return trips, Orvieto has become a welcoming home base surpassing the typical Italian vacation. Adventures in Italy operates trips in May and September, with two options: Artistic Enrichment nurtures creative expression, while Discover Orvieto invites visitors to focus on the history and culture of Orvieto and live as locals. Find out more about tours and special offers by following Adventures in Italy on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and visit www.adventuresinitaly.ca Slow Travel Tours is an affiliation of small-group tour operators who offer personalized trips in Italy, France and other European countries.