real way. Our challenge as artists was to quickly draw her in motion without really looking at our paper. I still smile when I open my sketchbook to see her big strong arms, holding the bowl and stirring vigorously. Plenty of tiramisu was consumed over the next few days.
VISUAL TREATS Other times, we would be dropped off at a local cemetery, usually located at the most upper reaches of a village, where gravestones and sculptures stretched to over 20 feet high. The beauty and history of these fascinating sites inspired our assignments — to study and sketch pattern, form, line and detail. The most impressive cemetery was high above the coastal town of Menton in France, where more sketching occurred during a beautiful day trip that culminated with a swim in the sea. An unexpected highlight was being with a group that really enjoyed outdoor, physical activity. One person knew the mountain trails well, so we hiked with our sketchbook and paints through olive groves and old farmsteads, up or down mountainsides to the nearby Italian villages. The nearest was Dolceacqua, which boasts a 12th century castle and the arched bridge that Monet painted in varying sunlight conditions. Rather than compete with Monet, a few of us sat on the patio of a local pub, sketching and painting the details of the lovely bell tower across the river. Friendly locals wandered the cobblestone streets and filled the neighbouring seats, making the experience all the more authentic. The village of Apricale is an impressive architectural feat, dating back to the mid 13th century and perched on the edge of a steep mountain. Another tiny village was the rustic Rocchetta Nervina, where we had lunch in a twisty narrow lane formed by 13th century stone buildings. I wasn’t able to sit for long as the intimate lanes and deserted walkways so intrigued me, and I crawled with my camera around almost all its nooks, capturing one seemingly impossible architectural detail after another. Paying close attention to detail through the lens of the camera kept me intensely aware of my surroundings. At every twist and turn in the region was something to inspire creativity. The whole experience was a feast for the senses, yet very relaxed. And now, when I stare at my quirky paintings and sketches I can still feel my senses come alive.
The writer’s friend Joan’s sketch amid aother artwork in a group art show in Liguria. Lunch in Rocchetta Nervina in Liguria, Italy.
IF YOU GO: The next EAT, PAINT, LOVE in Italy is offered September 10-17, 2014. The cost is $1740 CAD shared or $2040 CAD single and includes accommodation for seven nights, all meals plus some wine, transfer to and from Nice airport and the art program. Does not include airfare, insurance and art supplies. For more information see artschoolvictoria.com, and for other options, simply Google “art courses in Italy.” 41