August 10th - August 21st

Experience the history and traditions of Italy in a unique twelve day cooking or painting workshop and tour. Upon arriving in Italy, you will be transported to the “Green Heart” of Italy, Umbria, where you will stay five days and six nights in the enchanting medieval hilltop town of Corciano. Choose to spend five days capturing undulating olivegroves, sunflower fields, and cobblestone streets with professional artist,
Jason Bowen, or learn the secrets of preparing succulent Italian meals from local chef, Bruna. Watch the sun set over the hills of nearby Cortona, Perugia, and San Gimigniano during scenic evening excursions.

After soaking in the rich Umbrian culture, travel south to Pompeii. Explore this ancient city that lies in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius, a volcano that engulfed the city nearly two centuries ago. While in Pompei you will be able to explore its uncovered streets and capture a glimpse of daily life of the ancient past. From Pompeii you will travel south along the breath-taking coastline arriving at your final destination, the Amalfi Coast.

The Amalfi Coast, considered by many the most beautiful and picturesque region of Italy, will capture your heart as you explore its beaches, shops, restaurants and colorful views. Stay in the town of Sorrento and take day trips to nearby Positano and the Isle of Capri.
While in Capri, visit one of its greatest attractions, the Blue Grotto, a stunning cave which is strangely illuminated by the sun's rays. You may also enjoy Capri’s funicular tram ride which takes visiting tourists to the top of this scenic isle.

Preliminary Itinerary -

Day 1 - Sunday Arrival - Rome. Arrival at Corciano and checkin
Traditional Italian dinner providedby the Romani Family

Day 2 - Monday - sleep in
10:00 - Orientation.
11:30 - 5:00 pm - Visit to Perugia
5:00 - 6:30 - Cooking Class- Gelato
7:00 - 9:00 - Dinner at Il Convento

Day 4 - Wednesday -
9:30 - 3:00 - Cooking and Painting workshops.
3:30 - Leave for San Gimigniano

Day 5 - Thursday -
9:30 - 3:00 - Cooking and Painting workshops
5:00 - Pack to leave
7:00 - Medieval Dinner

Day 6 - Friday -
8:00 - Train ride to Pompeii
2:00 - Guided Tour - Pompeii. Hotel Stay in Pompeii

Day 7 - Saturday -
9:00 am - Leave for Amalfi Coast
12:00 - Check in - Day in Sorrento

Day 8 - Sunday -
Day in Sorrento - Painting Class. Hotel stay in Sorrento

Day 9 - Monday -
Day Trip to Positano. Hotel Stay in Sorrento

Day 10 - Tuesday -
Day excursion to Capri, including funicular tram ride and Blue Grotto tour.

Day 11 - Wednesday -
Return to Rome - Dinner provided. Hotel Stay in Rome

Day 12 - Thursday - Travel to Airport - Airline departures from Rome

October Exhibition - 2007

New Horizons
October 23rd - November 30th, 2007
Opening reception with artist Jason Bowen
Saturday, October 27th, 2007
3:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Benicia Public Library, 150 E L St, Benicia, CA

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