When Tuscany Taught Me to Slow Down, (and to Mix Limoncello with Prosecco!)

Andrea Gianchiglia Author

You know those moments in life when you suddenly realize, Oh wow… I really needed this? That was me,

You know those moments in life when you suddenly realize, Oh wow… I really needed this? That was me, standing in the middle of a sun-soaked Tuscan hill, limoncello in one hand, Prosecco in the other, grinning like a kid on Christmas morning.

Friends, I’ve just returned from ten days in Tuscany— on my first  creative retreat I hosted, and let me tell you, it’s been a feast for the senses and my creative soul. I didn’t even open my computer for TEN DAYS. Unheard of. Practically a miracle.

Art, Truffles, and Finding My Italian Alter Ego

This trip was a glorious blend of art and adventure. I went truffle hunting with a professional truffle hunter (and his adorable dog), cooled off in a sparkling pool under the Italian sun, and sketched scenes straight out of Renaissance paintings. One afternoon, I found myself sitting in front of Florence’s magnificent Duomo, sketchbook balanced on my lap, trying to capture the towering marble magic without getting gelato drips on my page. (Spoiler: The gelato won.)

I wandered Siena’s steep streets, marveled at the golden light every day and shared delicious homemade tiramisu with new  and old friends who quickly turned into family. There’s just something about Italy—it fills your creative cup and reminds you that life (and art) is meant to be savored.

My New Italian Obsession: Limoncello + Prosecco

Speaking of savoring… I discovered my new favorite treat: limoncello mixed with Prosecco. Oh. My. Stars. It’s sweet, zippy, and sparkly—basically the taste equivalent of throwing confetti into the air while dancing barefoot in a vineyard. Delish! I’m already plotting ways to sneak a bottle or two into my studio for those days when I’m painting and need a splash of Italian sunshine.

Lessons I’m Bringing Home

Tuscany taught me a few big things:

• Slow Down. Creativity blossoms when you give it space to breathe.
• Live in the Now. Whether it’s sketching the Duomo or sipping something bubbly, be in it.
• Your Creative Cup Matters. Time away isn’t time lost—it’s fuel for your art.
• When in Doubt… Add Purple. (Okay, that lesson’s mine, not Tuscany’s, but still very important.)

I’m so excited to dive back into my art, sprinkle in some new color palettes inspired by Tuscan skies, and maybe even plan my next workshop with a touch of limoncello flair.

If you’re feeling stuck, frazzled, or creatively tapped out, I can’t recommend filling your own cup enough—whether that’s through travel, a new hobby, or just an afternoon to yourself. And if you ever get the chance to combine art with Italy? Run, don’t walk.

Until next time… I’ll be dreaming of golden hills, purple shadows, and another glass of limoncello Prosecco spritz.

P.S. Want to keep your own creative cup overflowing? Check out my art tutorials and join me for a class or two! I’d love to share all the inspiration and techniques I picked up—no passport required. You can find all the good stuff over at Create & Inspire!!

Come with me to Italy next year!

Ciao, friends—and cheers to slowing down and savoring every brushstroke…and maybe a spritz or two!