Tuscany

We offer Da Vinci Capers in Tuscany in the most western part of Tuscany - near Lucca - a walled and wealthy town that managed to skirt wars, famine and the plague. This gem is rich in history, culture and generations of craftsmen. We are close to the wild Garfagnana -- home of wild boars, mushrooms, chestnuts and Barga, an artist colony and one of Leonardo da Vinci's favorite little villages. And in the other direction near the sea, we experience sculpting and visit the studios in Pietrasanta.

Our teachers are waiting to inspire you! Come experience the lessons of Leonardo with us in this beautiful region!

Amazing experience - a whole new way to experience Tuscany.

MC Hutchinson, Washington, D.C.

TUSCANY • Sample Schedule

Sunday / la domenica – Shedding Light on Leonardo

Sfumato – (root word "fumare," means to "go up in smoke, evaporate") The ability to embrace the unknown – the key to discover one 's creative abilities.

A mystery surrounds Leonardo da Vinci. Was he a scientist who studied art, or an artist who studied science? What were the principles he lived by?

We immerse ourselves into the Italian spirit, by learning from our mentor, Leonardo da Vinci. We will meet Joan Reifsnyder on the terrace of the Hotel Silla in Florence. A Leonardo aficionado, Joan will take us back 500 years to his stomping grounds. We will learn about Leonardo's concept of sfumato and how this technique holds the secret of unleasing one's creativity.

We board a small Mercedes van and travel to our home for the week near the sea. We stretch our legs and walk the grounds, then enjoy a luscious meal with superb local wines.

Barbara Hardesty, creator of Da Vinci Capers, will go over the week's itinerary.

A time to get acquainted with new friends, then off for a sound slumber.

(Remember, if there is an activity that you would rather observe or skip, just let Barbara know - there's no problem!)

Magical, stimulating, liberating, great conversations, learned more about who I am and how fascinating the world can be.

S. Hotham, Boulder, CO

On to Monday –>