FRESIA STUDIOS offers week-long oil painting workshops at Lake Como with Jerry Fresia as instructor. Classes take place in a 17th century villa located directly on the lake in Lenno. Workshops are open to students with any level of painting experience. Classes are held in the studio and en plein-air.

There are 10 week-long workshops scheduled in 2010 (May 16-June 19 and Sept 5-Oct 9). They run for 6 days with guests checking in on a Sunday and checking out on a Saturday. Students who attend 2 or more successive weeks receive a 10% discount.

The 6-day painting holiday package includes 5 weekday classes with 25 hours of instruction, some meals, all art material and post-workshop online instruction. Lodging and transportation costs are separate, but we make all the arrangements.

Why choose this painting holiday?

*We teach art. This is an authentic method handed down directly from the French Impressionists to various Americans such as Sargent, Henri, Chase, Hawthorne and Brackman. The method is for all visual art media. You will learn not only the craft side of painting but also the history and philosophy behind this method of painting.

*Classes are small. This is intentional. Class size is limited to 6 students which enables us to spend more time with each student and assess each student's specific needs.

*Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The lake is incredible and Lenno is arguably the most charming town on the lake with a beautiful promenade, gorgeous villas and a harbor. You will find everything that you would need – food stores, bank, pharmacy, shops, cafes, restaurants - within easy walking distance. Most important, there is a ferry dock in Lenno, which means that without driving or taking a bus you can visit just about any place on the lake. There is a reason why many of those who can vacation anywhere - George Clooney, Brad Pit or Richard Gere, for example - choose to vacation here.

*We provide all art equipment and supplies. You don’t have to worry about what to buy or bring. You will be able to travel light. For beginners, it’s a great way to start without making a commitment.

For information about fees and availibility, please send an email to painting@fresia.com.