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Easel & Lens
Art + Plein Air Painting in Sicily
April 11 – 17, 2027SOLD OUT - Join the interest list.
This course will be a special new style where we focus on specific art and painting techniques together – with an emphasis on plein air painting on location. Our week is carefully organized to give us time in the on-site studio as well as curated outings to show us the sites and unique surroundings of this part of Sicily. We’ll draw inspiration from the sites, culture, and landscape that this area has to offer – and translate this into some pieces of art to take hom.
A Plein Air Painting Retreat of Light, History & Sea
Stay in the tranquil elegance near Marsala where salt air, open skies, and the rhythm of western Sicily create the perfect setting for artists seeking inspiration. This thoughtfully designed itinerary blends cultural discovery, coastal beauty, and dedicated painting time—capturing the spirit of our creative escapes focused on immersion, beauty, and slow travel.
ACTIVITIES
Guests will not only enjoy the peaceful beauty of our accommodations and its traditional Sicilian character, but will also have ample time to explore the surrounding landscapes of western Sicily—each rich with its own history, atmosphere, and artistic inspiration. The week includes with a visit to Marsala, allowing guests to get their bearings in this elegant coastal town, stroll its historic streets, discover local markets, and learn about the many cultures that have shaped this corner of the island. Another day takes us to the famed salt pans and lagoons, where windmills, mirrored waters, and brilliant skies provide unforgettable opportunities for plein-air painting and photography. We will also journey to one of the magnificent Greek temples of this area, one of Sicily’s great archaeological treasures, where artists can sketch among rolling hills and ancient columns. Also included in the week, we ascend to the medieval hilltop town of Erice, with its stone lanes, hidden courtyards, and sweeping sea views—an inspiring setting for painting and wandering. An on-site wine tasting will introduce guests to the celebrated wines of Marsala, complete with tasting and regional cuisine. Throughout the retreat there will be dedicated time for painting, relaxing at Salinara, and exploring independently, making this an immersive and creatively fulfilling experience of Sicily.
ART
Daily art classes will be offered in a beautiful studio space on site as well as a focus on plein air excursions to also work on our paintings and sketches while on location around the area. Please note that all art materials needed will be supplied. Our courses are carefully designed for complete beginners with no previous experience as well as intermediate artists who would like to improve their skills/techniques, and, of course, practicing artists looking for a new inspiration. Julian, the host and instructor, has nearly 30 years of experience teaching students of all ages and abilities, and always strives to create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Read more about his story on the ABOUT page. These unique courses also reflect the culture, art, and history of the area and are interwoven with art-history excursions, providing inspiration, variety and interest throughout the week. Above all, this is a real opportunity for developing artists to work in small groups alongside an experienced teacher.
* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat.
SKILL LEVEL: NO PREVIOUS ART BACKGROUND REQUIRED. All levels are welcome, and participation is voluntary. Projects and classes will be offered as a completely exploratory, non-intimidating and personal experience.
COURSE MEDIUM: watercolor
Price
Please ask us.
How to Book
Apply NOW, spots are limited.
Min participants 12
Max participants 16
About Julian Hyzler
Julian Hyzler – Founder, Artist, and Instructor
Julian has been teaching students of all ages and abilities for over 30 years. He initially trained at art schools in Kingston and Norwich in England before specialising in Illustration in London, working for many terrific clients during time as a freelancer; Penguin, British Airways, Channel 4, Harper Collins, Chatto and Windus, and got his first real taste of Italy on the back of winning a travel scholarship to Venice. Since then he has led hundreds of retreats in Italy and around the world.
The atmosphere generated in the studio is always relaxed and friendly, whilst also being productive and lively, and you can expect positive encouragement to try new ideas as and when you feel confident to do so. Teaching art requires energy, patience and an ability to get as much out of each student as possible, and Julian always strives to do this, whether teaching life-drawing, photography, design, illustration, or painting and drawing.
— Tuition
— Accommodation in a double room
— Accommodation in a single room (with supplement)
— 7 Sicilian breakfasts
— 4 lunches
— 7 dinners, including local wine
— Non-alcoholic beverages (water, tea, coffee, and juices)
— Herbal teas and snacks throughout the day
— Use of easels and folding chairs for plein air painting
— Access to a large indoor studio space for painting
— Use of yoga mats (upon request)
— Use of bicycles
— Pick-up from Palermo Airport on the first day at 4:00 PM
— Transfer to Palermo Airport on the last day at 10:00 AM
— 2 lunches
— Painting materials
— Any personal expenses
— Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
— Airfare
— Transfers to and from airports other than Palermo Airport
*If you arrive after 4:00 PM, or if you arrive at or depart from a different airport, we can arrange a private transfer accordingly.
You will stay in our traditional 18th-century Sicilian villa, surrounded by vineyards and the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The area is renowned for its olive groves, ancient salt pans, and local producers of the famous Marsala DOC wine, as well as many exceptional red and white wines.
Sicilian breakfasts, lunches, and dinners will be freshly prepared and served at Salinara by our selected local chef. Enjoy the rich flavors of traditional Sicilian cuisine accompanied by exquisite local natural wines.
* Please notify us in advance of any dietary restrictions.
Travel, landscape, seascape, architecture, food, and people.
Everything is carefully planned yet relaxed, giving you the freedom to open up and be creative while enjoying Sicily in the company of like-minded people.
The course is conducted in English, with Italian translation available on request.
8-DAY PROGRAM (7 NIGHTS)
— Discover spectacular painting subjects at the villa and within walking distance, including historic windmills and salt pans located in a beautiful natural reserve
— Paint coastal scenes around the ancient San Teodoro Tower and its surroundings
— Explore the historic center and fish market of Marsala
— Visit the archaeological park of Selinunte Archaeological Park (self-catered lunch)
— Discover Erice and its medieval village: a breathtaking panoramic drive with stops for stunning sea views will lead us to this unforgettable hilltop town (self-catered lunch)
— Enjoy a shopping trip in Marsala, including a visit to a local ceramic artist
— Savor authentic Sicilian cuisine prepared by our chef at the villa, as well as dinner at one of our favorite local pizzerias
Please note that this itinerary is intended as an example. Activities and visits may vary depending on location, weather conditions, and group preferences.
PARTNERS AND FRIENDS ARE WELCOME!
We warmly welcome non-painting companions. With the many amenities and activities available at the farmhouse, your companions will never get bored! Of course, they will also enjoy our local excursions, wine tastings, and fantastic meals.
Start your adventure in Western Sicily:
— Enjoy yoga sessions in our secret garden or yoga shala
— Traditional Sicilian cooking class (minimum 6 guests)
— Ceramic workshop
— Horseback riding by the sea
— Sail the Mediterranean and visit the unspoiled Egadi Islands
— Visit local wineries with wine tasting
— Bike tour along the coastline, antique salt marshes, windmills, and vineyards
— Relax with the massage you deserve
— Sunset aperitif
— Enjoy kitesurfing, windsurfing, wing foiling, SUP, and kayaking
— Ricotta cheese-making experience
— Visit the beautiful seaside city of Marsala, home of the famous Marsala DOC wine
— Explore the unforgettable old town of Trapani, where you can stroll, shop, and dine
— Kitesurfing, windsurfing, and wing foiling lessons with professional instructors
Arrival and Departure Airport: Palermo Airport, Sicily (PMO) – transfer time to Salinara is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Transportation by car and minibus will be provided to the painting locations.
For guests who wish to arrive earlier or depart later, we offer an optional extended stay.
Travel Visa: Depending on your nationality, a visa may be required.
SUGGESTED PACKING
In addition to your usual travel essentials, we recommend bringing:
— Swimsuit and beach towel
— Sun hat and sunscreen
— Rain jacket
— Comfortable walking shoes
— Plug adapters/converters
Please ask your workshop organizer.
Information
For any questions, please contact:
Phone: (+39) 339 77 57 062
info@salinara.com