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Registration Opens Monday February 17th, 2025 at 10am EST!

Registration is Now Open!

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The Art Retreat You’ve Been Dreaming Of:

Reimagine Your Creative Self

Quiet the Mind, Awaken the Canvas

13-Day Art Retreat in Arcevia, Italy

Explore Your Creative Soul in Arcevia, Italy

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The Art Retreat You’ve Been Dreaming Of:

Reimagine Your Creative Self

Quiet the Mind, Awaken the Canvas

13-Day Art Retreat in Arcevia, Italy

Explore Your Creative Soul in Arcevia, Italy

Your artistic breakthrough is calling. Reimagine Your Creative Self invites you to step away from the traffic noise and into the lush, curving landscapes of Arcevia. Forget the typical art retreat—this is your chance to unlock untapped potential through watercolor painting, daring techniques, and a spirit of play.

Over 13 days of personal discovery, you’ll learn from inspiring artists Elli Milan, Dafni Milan, Lisa Cunningham, and Alannah Anderson. Local guide Bianca Lever will ensure you experience Italy in a soul-stirring, authentic way. Return home with a clear mind, fearless confidence, and a perspective that will shape your next masterpiece. Ready to awaken what’s been waiting within?

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Mark Your Calendar:

Registration Opens Monday February 17th, 2025 at 10am EST
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Thirteen Inspiring Days in Italy

August 28th - September 9th, 2025

Meet Your Hosts

Elli-Milan-Headshot-Round
Elli Milan Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

As the founding owner of Milan Art Institute, Elli has been a professional artist for three decades, inspiring a global community of artists to believe in themselves, push boundaries, and step into their artistic destiny.

Her passion for art retreats fuels her mission to guide creative breakthroughs across continents, helping artists discover their voice and transform their passion into a fulfilling profession. Through her classes, Elli continues to lead the current Art Renaissance, empowering thousands to embrace their artistic potential.

Dafni-Milan-Headshot-Round
Dafni Milan Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

Dafni, a professional artist since 2017, leads Milan Art Experiences with a passion for creativity and a deep knowledge of travel. Her art combines intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and bold contrasts through a dynamic mixed-media process.

With a teaching style that encourages artists to connect with their intuitive creative voices, Dafni finds joy in guiding transformative retreats where creativity thrives and artistic expression takes flight.

Lisa-Cunningham-Headshot-Round
Lisa Cunningham Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

Lisa Cunningham, an internationally recognized artist from Ayrshire, Scotland, now thrives in the creative buzz of Glasgow. A self-taught rebel, she skipped the traditional art-school route, proving that passion can overcome any naysayer’s doubts about “making it” as an artist.

Her gran—a hilariously eccentric artist—taught Lisa to embrace creativity without limits. Summers were spent sketching castles; winters, watercoloring in a cozy kitchen. Those early lessons shaped her bold style, which now attracts collectors around the world.

Alannah-Anderson-Headshot-Round
Alannah Anderson Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

Alannah Anderson’s work explores intuition, identity, and transformation, bridging the gap between what we see and feel. Her art invites viewers to pause, reflect, and discover something new—not just in the piece, but within themselves.

As Chief Product Officer at Milan Art, Alannah blends her artistic passion with expertise in design, helping shape the Milan Art brand. A finalist on The Outstanding Artist (Season 2), Alannah continues to draw inspiration from that experience, building connections within a thriving artistic community.

Bianca-Lever-Headshot-Round
Bianca Lever Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

Growing up in the vibrant metropolis and governmental hub of The Hague, Netherlands, along with a career in aviation, has profoundly influenced the work of internationally recognized artist Bianca Lever. She discovered her passion for art later in life, as if all those experiences were waiting for a creative outlet. This journey led her to pursue an art degree and dedicate herself to a career in the arts.

Bianca’s artistic process mirrors the way she lives—embracing contrasts, seeking new possibilities, and constantly evolving. She cherishes the solitude of her studio, where she overlooks the serene Italian hills, yet equally loves filling her countryside home with family and friends from around the world. Whether exploring charming Italian towns, indulging in exquisite cuisine, or sharing the finest local wines, she thrives in the balance of solitude and companionship—yin and yang, opposites that attract—just as they do in her paintings.

Elli-Milan-Headshot-Round
Elli Milan Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

As the founding owner of Milan Art Institute, Elli has been a professional artist for three decades, inspiring a global community of artists to believe in themselves, push boundaries, and step into their artistic destiny.

Her passion for art retreats fuels her mission to guide creative breakthroughs across continents, helping artists discover their voice and transform their passion into a fulfilling profession. Through her classes, Elli continues to lead the current Art Renaissance, empowering thousands to embrace their artistic potential.

Dafni-Milan-Headshot-Round
Dafni Milan Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

Dafni, a professional artist since 2017, leads Milan Art Experiences with a passion for creativity and a deep knowledge of travel. Her art combines intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and bold contrasts through a dynamic mixed-media process.

With a teaching style that encourages artists to connect with their intuitive creative voices, Dafni finds joy in guiding transformative retreats where creativity thrives and artistic expression takes flight.

Lisa-Cunningham-Headshot-Round
Lisa Cunningham Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

Lisa Cunningham, an internationally recognized artist from Ayrshire, Scotland, now thrives in the creative buzz of Glasgow. A self-taught rebel, she skipped the traditional art-school route, proving that passion can overcome any naysayer’s doubts about “making it” as an artist.

Her gran—a hilariously eccentric artist—taught Lisa to embrace creativity without limits. Summers were spent sketching castles; winters, watercoloring in a cozy kitchen. Those early lessons shaped her bold style, which now attracts collectors around the world.

Alannah-Anderson-Headshot-Round
Alannah Anderson Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

Alannah Anderson’s work explores intuition, identity, and transformation, bridging the gap between what we see and feel. Her art invites viewers to pause, reflect, and discover something new—not just in the piece, but within themselves.

As Chief Product Officer at Milan Art, Alannah blends her artistic passion with expertise in design, helping shape the Milan Art brand. A finalist on The Outstanding Artist (Season 2), Alannah continues to draw inspiration from that experience, building connections within a thriving artistic community.

Bianca-Lever-Headshot-Round
Bianca Lever Professional Artist, Host & Instructor

Growing up in the vibrant metropolis and governmental hub of The Hague, Netherlands, along with a career in aviation, has profoundly influenced the work of internationally recognized artist Bianca Lever. She discovered her passion for art later in life, as if all those experiences were waiting for a creative outlet. This journey led her to pursue an art degree and dedicate herself to a career in the arts.

Bianca’s artistic process mirrors the way she lives—embracing contrasts, seeking new possibilities, and constantly evolving. She cherishes the solitude of her studio, where she overlooks the serene Italian hills, yet equally loves filling her countryside home with family and friends from around the world. Whether exploring charming Italian towns, indulging in exquisite cuisine, or sharing the finest local wines, she thrives in the balance of solitude and companionship—yin and yang, opposites that attract—just as they do in her paintings.

Your Retreat Experience

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Enjoy delicious meals prepared by talented chefs as you explore watercolor techniques. Learn to paint with watercolors, create cyanotypes, craft your own watercolor paper in Arcevia, and make watercolor pigments in Accici.

You’ll infuse play into your practice, unlocking freedom and fearless experimentation. Engage in meaningful discussions about voice, personal style, and overcoming creative blocks. 

Four powerhouse artists will guide you, sharing their signature techniques and feedback to elevate your art and transform your perspective.

Amidst hills that cradle the countryside, here’s your escape to focus on your art—free from distractions, free from obligations, just pure flow. You’ll wander through nearby cities like Pesaro for beach days and shopping adventures to awaken fresh ideas.

Connect with like-hearted artists in an atmosphere that’s all about recharging, creating, and growing. It’s art, exploration, and discovery wrapped in one stress-free experience. Every trip to Arcevia brings a creative shift we didn’t see coming.

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What's Included?

A charming villa at Borgo Belfiore with comfortable accommodations and serene surroundings
Group watercolor, cyanotype, and mixed media art classes
One-on-one support from artists Elli, Dafni, Lisa, and Alannah
All art supplies for classes
Three delicious meals daily, plus several meals at local restaurants
Art critique sessions to inspire lasting growth
Exciting excursions featuring pigment-making, watercolor paper-making workshops, wine-tasting, beach days, and shopping
Some of the other activities and excursions include creating cyanotypes, exploring voice and personal style, and drawing inspiration from Italy’s beautiful landscapes and culture.

Accommodation Options

Borgo Belfiore, nestled in Italy’s enchanting Marches, is a serene retreat for artists craving quiet and creativity.

This former farm features a villa with frescoes and an old olive oil press with charming apartments. Surrounded by olive groves, the central pool offers breathtaking views, perfect for sparking inspiration. With meals prepared by a personal chef featuring local cuisine, guests savor the flavors of the region while exploring the cultural richness of the Marches.

Space for 24 Guests—Don’t Miss Your Chance!

Private Apartment with Double Bed

$5,000 for single
$7,000 for couple

(Price in USD - 5 spots available)

Private Apartment

Double Bed

13 Days Accommodation

Art Workshops and Critiques

Shared Studio, Garden & Pool

Day Trips & Excursions

Three Meals Daily + Several Restaurants

Art Supplies Included

Private Room in Shared Apartment with Double Bed

$4,800

(Price in USD - 5 spots available)

Shared Apartment

Private Room with Double Bed

13 Days Accommodation

Art Workshops and Critiques

Shared Studio, Garden & Pool

Day Trips & Excursions

Three Meals Daily + Several Restaurants

Art Supplies Included

Private Room in Shared Apartment with Single Bed

$4,500

(Price in USD - 4 spots available)

Shared Apartment

Private Room with Single Bed

13 Days Accommodation

Art Workshops and Critiques

Shared Studio, Garden & Pool

Day Trips & Excursions

Three Meals Daily + Several Restaurants

Art Supplies Included

Shared Room in Shared Apartment with Single Bed

$3,800

(Price in USD - 10 spots available)

Shared Apartment

Shared Room with Single Bed

13 Days Accommodation

Art Workshops and Critiques

Shared Studio, Garden & Pool

Day Trips & Excursions

Three Meals Daily + Several Restaurants

Art Supplies Included

Accommodation Options

Borgo Belfiore, nestled in Italy’s enchanting Marches, is a serene retreat for artists craving quiet and creativity.

This former farm features a villa with frescoes and an old olive oil press with charming apartments. Surrounded by olive groves, the central pool offers breathtaking views, perfect for sparking inspiration. With meals prepared by a personal chef featuring local cuisine, guests savor the flavors of the region while exploring the cultural richness of the Marches.

Space for 24 Guests—Don’t Miss Your Chance!

Private Apartment with Double Bed

$5,000 for single
$7,000 for couple

(Price in USD - 5 spots available)

Private Apartment

Double Bed

13 Days Accommodation

Art Workshops and Critiques

Shared Studio, Garden & Pool

Day Trips & Excursions

Three Meals Daily + Several Restaurants

Art Supplies Included

Private Room in Shared Apartment with Double Bed

$4,800

(Price in USD - 5 spots available)

Shared Apartment

Private Room with Double Bed

13 Days Accommodation

Art Workshops and Critiques

Shared Studio, Garden & Pool

Day Trips & Excursions

Three Meals Daily + Several Restaurants

Art Supplies Included

Private Room in Shared Apartment with Single Bed

$4,500

(Price in USD - 4 spots available)

Shared Apartment

Private Room with Single Bed

13 Days Accommodation

Art Workshops and Critiques

Shared Studio, Garden & Pool

Day Trips & Excursions

Three Meals Daily + Several Restaurants

Art Supplies Included

Shared Room in Shared Apartment with Single Bed

$3,800

(Price in USD - 10 spots available)

Shared Apartment

Shared Room with Single Bed

13 Days Accommodation

Art Workshops and Critiques

Shared Studio, Garden & Pool

Day Trips & Excursions

Three Meals Daily + Several Restaurants

Art Supplies Included

Your Art’s Next Chapter Starts Here

Tucked away in the sweeping slopes of Arcevia, this retreat is a playground for creativity and curiosity. Stroll through nearby villages, taste incredible food and wine, and soak up the kind of views that make you want to grab a paintbrush. It’s not just an escape. This is your container for growth, with mentors to spark breakthroughs in your art!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Accommodation
If I live locally, can I pay for the event and not stay on site?

No, the conference fee includes accommodation onsite at the venue as part of the package.

Can I join the conference for just one day?

No, the conference is designed as a comprehensive 10-day group experience, and participants are required to attend the full duration.

Airport Pickup/Drop Off
What if I miss the scheduled bus pickup?

There will be no additional bus services provided. Please ensure that you arrive in time for the designated pickup as listed in the itinerary, or arrange alternative transportation such as a taxi to the venue.

Are there multiple pickup times?

No, there will be only one scheduled bus for pickup. Make sure to check the itinerary for the exact time.

Retreat Policies
Be Considerate. 

While on a retreat with the Milan’s, you will be working with others as a team and will be seen by others as representatives of Milan Art Institute. Please always be considerate of how your actions or contribution affects your team.

Be Respectful. 

Treat all individuals with a sense of dignity, respect, and worth.  Make a personal commitment to be non-judgmental about cultural differences, living conditions and the lifestyle of each person you encounter.  Avoid profane and abusive language and disruptive behavior that is dangerous to yourself and others. Always have proper identification on you. All items of clothing must be suitable for the cultural environment and should not contain offensive or objectionable material. If you use tobacco, please be respectful of those around you and smoking on the bus/van will NOT be tolerated.

Be Collaborative. 

When you are unsure, ask for help. Nobody knows everything and nobody is expected to be perfect. Asking questions avoids many problems down the road, so questions are encouraged. Try to be helpful so that everyone is on the same page.

Be Available.

Each of the Milan Art Retreats are carefully planned out in accordance with the activities for the day and the number of people on the trip; therefore, it is important for the entire team that you are on time and available for team activities. You always have the option to stay back or venture out on your own, but in this case, you will be solely responsible for your own food and travel provisions. We will not reimburse you for any activities or meals missed.

Be Safe. 

We are traveling into a foreign country and it is imperative that you always pay attention to the instructions of the team leaders. While unsafe conditions are not anticipated, be sure to always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to safeguard your personal items. Do not go off on your own. It is important that Milan Art Trip team members always know where each participant is at. There will be plenty of time for relaxing, shopping, and enjoying the country. Finally, do not use, possess, or be under the influence of illegal drugs at any time during the trip. Use of alcohol is not prohibited, but do not be under the influence of alcohol during the trip (no drunkenness).

Be Positive.

This is the trip of a lifetime! But inevitably there will be moments in which you might feel uncomfortable due to the exploration of a foreign land, sometimes one may experience “culture shock” and this is normal. We ask that you be conscious of your attitude because it will affect the others on the trip. It's essential to communicate your discomforts to a team leader rather than a fellow travel so that we can help you and try to mitigate your frustrations. Our goal is to help you have the best experience possible and communication is essential.

Payment
Can I pay in installments?

No, we require full payment upon registration due to the limited availability of spaces.

Refund Policy
What is the refund policy if I need to cancel?

Cancellations made within 30 days of the trip are non-refundable. If you cancel between July 1st and the end of August, you are eligible for a 50% refund. Cancellations before July 1st will receive a 100% refund, minus any transaction fees.

What is the refund policy for the online experience?

The refund policy for the online experience is currently being determined and will be announced soon.