Posts tagged ‘civita2019’

Oct 15

Community.

com·mu·ni·ty

/kəˈmyo͞onədē/

a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.

2019 in Civita was memorable and wonderful. It was all about ‘community’: the Civitoni, Laura, Tony, visiting fellows returning to the Civita Institute, amazing chefs at the restaurants, shop owners, tractor drivers and of course, my adventurous students.

I feel so fortunate to be part of this Community. I feel lucky to be able to teach in Civita. Seeing each group draw, paint and experience the drawing lessons presented and creating beautiful and strong responses, each their own, unique and with intention.

A few snap shots here of our time together and works.

A grateful teacher.

May 30

wise spirits: Civita di Bagnoregio

Art becomes a spiritual process depending upon the degree of commitment that you bring to it. Every experience becomes direct food for your art. Then your art teaches you about life.

—Nick Bantock

This was written while studying drawing in Civita in 2013 as a fellowship with the Civita Institute:

City of Ghosts

‘I do not believe in ghosts; however, I do believe in spirits. Spirits are everywhere; and yes, in they are in Civita too. As I began my sketching session this morning, different spirits touched upon me.

Let me tell you the rules: These spirits are those, past and present. I think of them as the grand teachers that have touched my life up to now. As my pencil or paintbrush dances along the page, words of wisdom and creativity flow: Tom: ‘keep it simple.’ Dawn: ‘think in shape.’ Astra: ‘motive.’

Many spirits flow in and out, moving me along. Most important, the spirits continue to keep me present and inside my right brain. Though Civita has reluctantly gained the nickname, ‘City of Ghosts’, I am certain Civita is instead a town of spirits, alive and wondrous. Who will be meeting me next?’

Come experience Civita with me this Fall 2019. Let’s begin the adventure.

More information here: https://anitahlehmannteacher.com/civita-workshop/

May 27

Civita di Bagnoregio: piazza (n.)

Amateurs look for inspiration; the rest of us just get up and go to work. — Chuck Close

Piazza (n.): A public square or marketplace, especially in an Italian town.

When drawing the piazza, one needs to find the right time of day. The central square becomes a clock of sorts as one becomes exposed to the sun, especially during the late summer months.

Having a keen understanding of where the sun rises and sets each day can provide you with the ultimate protection and most importantly, the quality of light one desires.

My favorite time of day is when the shadows are long, early morning or late afternoon.

It all begins to fall into place; you see; even the church’s axis is east/west, the sunset from the bridge is breathtaking and turns the rock to gold!

And be sure to check out the children in an early, cool evening, playing soccer in the center square; the end of another great day.

Come along this Fall. Contact me with your interest + go here

May 26

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Introductions: Civita di Bagnoregio

Let yourself begin anew. Pack your bags. Choose carefully what you bring, because packing is an important ritual. Take along some humility and lessons of the past. Toss in some curiosity and excitement about what you haven’t yet learned. Say your good-byes to those you’re leaving behind. Don’t worry whom you will meet or where you will go. The way has been prepared. The people you are to meet will be expecting you. A new journey has begun. Let it be magical. Let it unfold.—Melody Beattie, Journey to the Heart

When introducing students to Civita since 2013, there is a many tale I would love to share. However, like every good teacher, I share a bit, tell them ‘come this way’ and simply discover this magical and sensational place, Civita. ‘ Let it unfold.’

Once again I am offering two sessions:

Session 1: September 24 – 30, 2019 + Session 2: October 2 – 8, 2019

Each session will begin by observing the contextual environment of Civita di Bagnoregio and its surrounding context: learning about the ‘power of a place’ through drawing; mark making inspired by Civita’s extraordinary setting and the beauty of Italy.

+ here’s a tip about what to bring. OK. Maybe a bit more required….

While traveling and sketching outside of studio, I have found these ten essentials so very helpful:

1. Soft pencil, HB recommended. Or a black fountain pen, such as a Lamy.

2. Thin eraser, used for drawing, typically. used for negative space, not errors.

3. Sun hat and sunglasses.

4. Small tripod travel stool, one can select a perfect spot anywhere.

5. Soft paper, 9” x 12” minimum, format horizontal, vertical or square.

6. Time (20 minute minimum).

7. (good) Attitude.

8. Right brain thinking.

9. Confidence.

10. Intent.

Contact me with your interest. go here