Creative Excursions with Andrea Gianchiglia
Unplug. Reconnect. Create with Purpose.
What if a few days away could fill your creative cup for months to come? Whether it's painting under the golden skies of Tuscany, laughing with fellow artists over a shared meal, or sketching beside a peaceful river in New Jersey—you’ll leave my retreats feeling refreshed, inspired, and more connected to your creative self than ever before.
My Mindset:
It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence. I believe everyone deserves to create without fear, explore without judgment, and be surrounded by others who get it. You’re not just coming to paint—you’re coming to reconnect with your creative voice, your joy, and your why. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just returning to art after years away, my retreats are a safe, empowering space for you to grow.
Meet Your Guide – Andrea Gianchiglia
🎨 What each retreat has:
My retreats are designed for artists at any level who crave time, space, and support to grow.
My retreats are designed for artists at any level who crave time, space, and support to grow.
Each experience includes:
Daily art sessions (plein air painting, sketching, pastel, watercolor, any medium you feel comfortable in)
Playful exercises to boost confidence and loosen up your work
Personalized feedback and guidance from me throughout the week
Optional group critiques, creative prompts, and journaling
Local cultural experiences: food, sights, community, and of course—fun!
Downtime to rest, explore, or just be present.
You’ll return home with a deeper sense of creative direction, finished work, and memories that fuel your artistic journey long after unpacking.
Grow as an artist , inside and out. Fill your creative cup!
Individual & group critiques with technique and subject based demonstrations
Community and friendships for a lifetime, along with spontaneous dance parties
"I had the good fortune to join Andrea’s workshop in Tuscany where I was introduced to new mediums while deepening my understanding of older ( to me) mediums. And did I mention she makes everything fun? Nothing is so precious that it can’t evolve when Andrea is your teacher. She is a joy to be around. And last, If you are lucky enough to have Andrea as your teacher, you will be amazed at how rapidly your skills and knowledge will advance. 10/10"
Hilary
Tuscany Retreat 2025
Each retreat is personally curated by me.
🎨 Daily Demos & Artistic Exploration
Expect 1–2 demos per day in a variety of approachable mediums—from expressive watercolor and pen to pastel or paint, depending on the retreat. Each one focuses on an essential element like value, composition, movement, or atmosphere, helping you build skills without overwhelm. Whether you're working outside with plein air or cozy inside with a still life, I’ll guide you step-by-step while encouraging your own personal style to shine through.
Creative Nourishment & Community
Let’s be real—when was the last time you had a moment to just breathe and make art for you? This retreat is about more than learning technique—it’s about reclaiming your creative self. With gentle guidance, reflective exercises, and deep conversations over coffee or wine, you’ll rediscover what lights you up—and do it alongside others who understand that longing. The art will stay with you, but so will the friendships and the feeling that you are not alone in this.
Savor the Experience – Food, Culture, & Creative Adventures
This isn’t just a retreat—it’s a full-on sensory experience. Imagine truffle hunting in the countryside, sketching from a scenic overlook, indulging in fresh local pasta, and wandering museums that leave you breathless. Each day blends culinary delights with creative exploration—whether we’re sipping wine after a plein air session, tasting fresh cheeses at a local market, or soaking in inspiration at a gallery or historic landmark. You’ll come home with more than a full sketchbook—you’ll carry stories, flavors, and laughter from unforgettable days spent doing what you love, in places that spark your soul.
"The Tuscany art trip with Andrea was a dream trip. Not just for me but for the whole group of us. We toured and ate our way around Italy with stops in Pienza and Siena for sketching and painting. The weather cooperated and we really could relax and enjoy the painting lessons with Andrea."
Karen P
Tuscany Retreat 2025
🗓 What a Typical Day Looks Like
Each day is thoughtfully structured to nurture your creativity while leaving plenty of room for rest, exploration, and connection. Here’s a peek at the natural flow of a retreat day:
☀️ Morning
Fresh, local breakfast Morning art session (guided demo, sketching, or plein air)
Or a creative excursion: think museum hopping, local markets, truffle hunting, or sketching in a scenic town
🥗 Midday
Relaxed, delicious lunch together Time to rest, explore, or journal
🎨 Afternoon
Afternoon art session (optional continued work, technique play, or guided time)
Or a creative outing if we stayed in during the morning
🌅 Evening
Chef-prepared dinner with great conversation and community Unwind with free time to sketch, stroll, reflect—or simply rest and recharge
✨ Everything is optional. Whether you join every session or spend a few quiet hours wandering solo, this is your time. Your retreat, your rhythm.
“The balance of structured art time and free-flowing fun was perfect—I never felt rushed or stressed, just totally immersed and inspired.”
"I just returned from one of my favorite vacations ever. It was a trip to Tuscany to paint the landscape. I had no idea what to expect except I knew that the teacher, Andrea, was superb and she didn’t disappoint. She has a unique way of explaining everything so that you understand technique, color, composition and the importance of value. She empowers you to reach new heights and try things you never would. And, although I didn’t know the other students we all became friends and had a wonderful time together. And….to put the icing on the cake we stayed in a magnificent villa with a chef and a handler who organized various activities. I want to go every year!!!!"
Linda G
Tuscany Retreat 2025
It’s never too late and you’re never
too busy to return to what lights you up.
“Your creativity has been waiting for you—patiently, quietly—until you were ready to say yes.”
"You truly can’t go wrong with Andrea as your art teacher. She is an exceptional and gifted artist whose talent shines through in every medium she explores—whether it's oil, watercolor, pastel, or beyond. Her mastery and versatility are truly inspiring. But what sets Andrea apart even more is her infectious enthusiasm for art; her passion is contagious and ignites a newfound excitement in every student. She is not only a talented artist but also an incredibly supportive and encouraging coach, always willing to offer guidance and personalized tips to help you grow. Working with her is both fun and enriching, and I genuinely look forward to my next workshop with her. If you’re serious about elevating your art skills, Andrea is the teacher you want by your side."
Meredith B
Tuscany Retreat 2025
Who My Retreats Are For
ITALY 2026
Join me for an unforgettable artistic retreat in Cinque Terre, Italy, where the sea’s rhythm, Mediterranean light, and colorful villages inspire every brushstroke.
This is more than just painting—it’s about immersing yourself in the moment, simplifying what you see, and capturing the essence of a place through your art.
