Frequently Asked Questions

How "hands on" is the art instruction in an Arts Sojourn painting workshop?

You may receive as much art instruction and input as you desire. You are always invited to paint along with the instructor or to have a private consultation. Some participants work very closely with the instructor, but the choice will always be yours. There is also much interaction between participants and much learning and encouragement takes place in this environment. Every evening before dinner we gather as a group for "show and tell;" a very casual time for sharing our work and travel experiences. The types of people who participate in our program are attracted to our flexible format and the lack of regimentation in the workshop.

What sort of art supplies will I need?

You are free to work in any medium that you like. Matthew Daub is a university art professor with extensive experience teaching drawing, oil painting, and pastels. His specialty is watercolor painting. You should probably select the medium that you are most comfortable with so that you can best concentrate on responding to your environment. If you are not an experienced plein air painter be sure to use your supplies outdoors a few times before our departure. We can make some suggestions about materials for those that are just getting started.

Do I have to be an artist to participate in an Arts Sojourn?

Absolutely not! We always have several non-artists with us. Many come just for the pleasure of our locations, accommodations, and flexible group format.

Do non-artists receive a discounted price?

No. Our hotels and bus companies charge us the same for artists and non-artists. Our prices reflect that.

How many participants are needed to make an Arts Sojourn happen?

Unlike many programs we will never cancel a Sojourn for lack of participation. This is one important factor that sets us apart. We are often contacted by people who previously signed up for a trip with another group, only to have it canceled because it did not reach the minimum number of participants. If one person signs up we will go to Italy together and have a good time. This is not about showing a profit for us (although it's always nice!). Our smallest group had nine participants and our largest to date has been twenty one, in addition to Matthew and Barbara.

Is it possible to attend only part of an Arts Sojourn?

It may be. We have often been able to accommodate these requests in the past. Contact us to see if suitable logistics can be arranged.

I have never traveled to Italy before. Do I need to speak the language?

No. We always have many first time travelers with us. Italians, as a rule, are very patient and helpful with those that do not speak their language. Taking a few classes or buying a phrase book can be useful if you are so inclined. We also have a very thorough in-country orientation that will help you get acclimated.

How much additional spending money should I bring?

This will depend largely on your personal spending habits. The US dollar is very weak against the Euro right now, which does make traveling in Italy more expensive than under the old Lire currency. It would be wise to plan on budgeting at least $250 per week to start with. You will likely be able to get by on less, but you could also spend much more on shopping and the like.

What sort of clothes should I bring?

Just like in the US , the weather in Italy can be unpredictable. We have seen it cold and rainy in June and blazing hot in May, but this is not the norm. The weather is usually quite temperate at our locations during the times we plan our Sojourns. We do ask that all participants bring a nice change of clothes for our "show and tell" meetings and dinners. Dress as you would to go out to a nice (not fancy) restaurant at home. Italians tend to dress nicely for the evening meal and we follow that custom.

Should I book my flight right away?

Wait until you receive confirmation of your registration and travel instructions from us. We will send you a window of flight arrival and departure times that will enable you to meet our charter bus for transport to and from the hotels and airports in Italy . If you book a flight that does not fit into our arrival or departure window you will need to secure your own ground transportation. Some participants have opted to do this and we will be happy to assist you in making these connections. There is no credit given if you do not use the group ground transportation.

Should I purchase travel insurance?

This is up to you, but we would recommend it. We have had people withdraw from the program due to an unforeseen illness or event. We have to be firm in our cancellation policy, so it is up to you to decide how much risk you are comfortable with. All deposits are non-refundable and as we get closer to departure time there are greater penalties so we think that it is probably wise to protect yourself. Many travel insurance companies will even insure pre-existing conditions if the policy is purchased at the same time as the trip. We do not sell travel insurance, but we offer a recommendation in our confirmation letter to all participants.