Making Memories

Tuscan Walkway
16 x 16 Oil Painting
 by Pat Fiorello
NFS

A did this painting a couple of years ago and it hangs in my dining room. It  is a favorite as it brings back special memories of one of my first painting trips to Tuscany in 2001. We were in the small town of Meleto at the Villa Barberino ( yes as in Vinny Barberino of "Welcome Back Kotter" fame- but no relation :)

Now, I'm looking forward to my 10th trip back to Italy to teach another workshop one month from now. One of the wonderful things about art is that it can conjure up memories of a special time or place for both the artist and the viewers. The workshops really create an opportunity for many rich memories of new places, people and experiences and that is part of what I love about leading them.

Yesterday was another day of making memories. I teach a one day workshop called  "Art for Non- Artists"  which is designed for absolute beginners. We do basic techniques and then a "paint along " so students see how to apply the techniques they just learned to a painting start to finish.  Below is a photo at the end of the day with 2 of my students - a father and daughter, Peter and Marilyn, with their paintings. I hope it will be a cherished memory for them of a day of fun and learning shared together.

Peter and his daughter Marilyn with their paintings.