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I can't thank you enough for giving me the opportunity to study with William Noonan and Laura Martinez-Bianco in Tuscany and again on Cape Cod. Their teaching styles really compliment each other and I've come away from these workshops a better artist. I can't wait to see where next summer Italian workshop takes me.
Thanks to all of you.
ET
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“This was a great weekend. It was the jumpstart that I needed. I highly recommend this plein air painting course for both the novice and veteran artists. I have not painted in years so I was a little nervous about taking the class. As soon as I arrived in Cape Cod and met with some of the participants I immediately felt at ease. There was no judging involved just enthusiasm.
An agenda was given to us by Joan Hill so we knew what to expect for the weekend. If the weather did not cooperate we painted at another location that was more protected from the weather but had wonderful views.
The teachers were supportive and their advice was very concise. Our teachers, Laura Bianco and Billy Noonan, were a great team. As we painted plein air they would come by often and talk to us individually about our pieces. We would discuss what we were looking at, what we were feeling and how we could capture what was there right in front of us, but in our own style. They both had great insights. Laura and Billy said different things yet I found both opinions were in line. I also thought that all of the students were very supportive and encouraging. It was not only rewarding to see myself grow during this course but to see my fellow classmates discover things about themselves and their art.
I was very impressed by how passionate Joan Hill is about hosting this course and I feel very lucky to have been in this class. This retreat has inspired me to paint much more often and to go on the Tuscany retreat in July with this same organization. Thank you Joan, Laura and Billy.”
From Karen, who attended the Cape Cod Plein Air Workshop in October, 2010.
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“A wonderful experience" cannot even come close to summing up into words this past week of my life. I came to see Italy and study pastels. This I did and more. Laura was a wonderful teacher, and I learned so much from her. I think my primary medium of plein air painting, will indeed, be pastels this summer.
The people here have been so kind and welcoming in every way. …… Joan went the extra mile in every way to make our experience more than we could dream it would be. Joan drove us all over the countryside sharing her love for the land and its people with us. Eliana has spoiled us with her wonderful cooking and her bright smile. Ilenia has been a joy to visit with at meal times, again with the same bright smile that everyone here seem to share.
I thank all these wonderful people I have mentioned and many more that I have not for an experience of a life time.
By the way, did I even mention how beautiful it is here? I'll bring this place and its people home in my heart. I feel blessed!!!!!!!!!!
posted by Nancy Woogen
< July 2009
Hi Joan,
I want to tell you what a great trip our journey to Florence and Tuscany was...so well planned and thought out. We really enjoyed ourselves and the company of our fellow travelers. I know how concerned you and Andrew were that everything would be wonderful and we feel that the trip far exceeded our expectations. Loved the visits to the potter, the ceramic painter, and the foundry...most folks never get to experience that. La Traviata, the spa, meeting Paola...more great experiences. Memories of the last evening will always be with us when we think back on the wonderful chamber music concert, sipping champagne and chatting with all the other guests, and an amazing farewell dinner. Thank you for your efforts.
Warm Regards, L and A
October 2009
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Hi Joan,
I was just about ready to e-mail you to tell you what a great time I had. It's taken that long to catch up and keep up, but now I'm ready to go again!! I have been visiting my memories all along, though.
Thanks so much for the group photo - I love it.
Many thanks for a wonderful time.
Fondly,
E.
October 2009
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Joan : are you delighted to be home at last ! You did a fabulous job and the refinements that could be applied to a future trip are so small as to be considered "de minimus". I realize that you had the burden of the daily responsibility, btu we thought it was wonderful in all ways.
I am too tired for a full recap but you should be very proud of this maiden voyage and for me, I will feel so inadequate cooking another meal - I cannot wait for january to arrive for another gustatory delight.
M
October 2009
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Hi Joan!
I did the trip laundry today and jetted around doing errands, but was thinking about you all day! Thanks for ALL your effort in making Tuscany truly an adventure for the senses! It was so needed for us to get away. It too is lovely to be home.
All is well and again…My thanks to you!
Sending You So much Love!
PatriZia! ♥
October 2009
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Helllloooo Joan!
Well I just wanted to say “THANK YOU!!!!!” so much for such an incredible trip. It was definitely a trip worth taking and revisiting. I still cannot get over how incredibly beautiful the Tuscan countryside is. I have to admit that my images just don’t do it justice. I would like to blame it on the camera, but I believe it was operator error. I admit I was a bit overwhelmed, by the beauty and the fun we were all having. Thank you for being loads of fun and making the trip so memorable.
….. I will write again soon and include some pictures. Jimi has all the fun ones on his camera so I’ll make sure he sends some of those. Mine were more documentary in nature, boring – yes true, but it’s what I like.
Kindest personal regards,
A.
September 2010
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The dream to Italy was a dream fulfilled. Thank you…. Your coordination, guidance, driving and communication skills were invaluable and greatly appreciated. Friends here were envious …. A.
September 2010
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…We are so grateful for all your time and effort in planning and coordinating this trip. For us, this was a trip of a lifetime that we will never forget. Thank you for giving Jon some “vacation” time.
D and K
September 2010