Back to Italy!

In 2019 I spent September painting at Borgo Santa Pietro as their resident artist. I've returned for the month of October 2024.
Last time I painted this bowl and am pleased to find that it is still here to paint again. This is a pastel. The lemons are huge, the apples are small but sweet. 

 
The Old Stone Bowl 12x16 pastel.

Rain Rain Rain

I'm eager to paint outdoors at this amazing estate but kept inside by the weather today. I have a sketch book, pen, and watercolor set and a warm seat by the fire. Life is good and Tuscany is so peaceful.

Looking out the windows

Breakfast in an elegant location! At Borgo you can choose to eat in this room, the library or out those doors with a spectacular view of the mountains as the morning fog lifts. My daily 'table for one' has this view, and I see beauty in every direction.  

From the main villa, windows face gardens and other buildings. I found this gate over my shoulder near the piano and drew while I waited for the rain to abate. Although the rain was very heavy at times it drains quickly, and the plants and trees have been noticeably growing.

Symphony Circle and painting Verdi

This is a popular bust of the musician Verdi, he appears in cities all over, usually near a symphony's home  this is Buffalo at Kleinhans Music Hall  

Just 12x9 in oil, it's an unusual subject for me  

The Gorge from the Canadian side

I joined the Ontario Canada plein air painters on a glorious sunny Friday to capture the Niagara River gorge from the other side. That's where the whirlpool turns and I could see the Spanish Aerocar pass over the river. 

Without a shady tree my Plein air umbrella protects me, my palette and the painting. The bicycle rack was a perfect attachment spot.

Finished! Love this! Painting brings me joy. 

The Whirlpool from Ontario 16x12 oil c. K. Schifano 2024