“Art touches the soul… art is communication… it reaches out from the canvas and passes through the eyes of the viewer right into his heart where it can leave an imprint of beauty that can make the spirit sing.”   -Nina Baldwin

My dream has been to create an opportunity for artists and artists-to-be, in which they visit a place so beautiful, so rich with wonders and history, that they are changed forever, their creativity becomes a conflagration, and they can no longer NOT CREATE!

Of course, the best magic happens when people collaborate and that is why I am always searching for passionate, knowledgeable instructors who are willing and able to share their skills by creating an encouraging, inclusive environment.

I personally select each location and venue that will give us the most authentic experience of the areas we travel to.I want my artists to be immersed in the culture, food and beauty of the country.

Combined with professional instruction, fun day-trips to incredible sights, villages and cultural treasures, authentic regional cuisines prepared by our own chefs, we offer our artist-guests an unparalleled experience into the “olde country.”

Meet some of our incredible instructor-artists below.

Christina Wald is the newest addition to the Dream Team. She has illustrated more than 60 children’s books, in addition to starting a comics publishing company, Blue Wald Press. She started the Cincinnati Chapter of the world-wide organization, Urban Sketchers, and is their current Social Media Director, traveling and speaking internationally. She has taught Illustration and Sequential Storytelling for more than 10 years at Northern Kentucky University. And she STILL has time to sketch every day! She is a powerhouse of energy and loves to share her skills and passion for travel. We are SO lucky to have her joining us! Go to her workshop page here.

Join us in welcoming Roxanne Steed back again to Tuscany. Roxanne has been a traveling artist for many years, and has enjoyed teaching sketchbook journaling and painting both in the US and abroad. She is a fun and knowledgeable instructor, who is adept at both watercolor and oil, and enjoys working with all levels of students and watching their “ah-HA!” moments.. Roxanne will show you how to travel light with minimum supplies and still create work that you will be happy to share and re-visit for inspiration for your larger works, once you have returned home. Read more about Roxanne here.

Welcome one of our newest guides, Tui Snider, best-selling author, speaker and expert on funerary practices and cemetery symbols. She travels the world searching out unusual graves and interesting stories about the cemetery inhabitants to share with her following of “kindred spirits.” Read more about Tui here. Go to Tui’s Workshop page by clicking here.

Jenny McClendon has definitely added a new dimension of energy to the team.

She received her BS in Physical Education from UNCW in 1996 and her Masters in Physical Therapy from ECU in 2000, specializing in Women’s Studies. She is currently a licensed Physical Therapist with over 20 years experience in Outpatient Orthopedics.  Jenny has been teaching group fitness classes for 30 years with a special passion for active seniors.  Jenny currently teaches “FIT OVER 50” classes at HBBC Gym in Raleigh and also “ARORA” (program for active seniors) at Lifetime Fitness in Raleigh.  Jenny is the creator and operator of Jenny Fit Start, a booming YouTube fitness channel for active seniors. Jenny strongly believes that it is never too late to begin your health and fitness journey. Go to Jenny’s workshop page by clicking here.