Acting as an Italian-speaking guide, Elisabeth re-traced her steps and shared precious memories from her personal journeys through Tuscany. For participants this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to re-live with Elisabeth Cummings what was a powerfully formative time in her art practice.
When speaking specifically about Montecatini Terme, Elisabeth is excited by the amazing proximity to Tuscan scenery of farms framed by the mountains where Michelangelo obtained marble for ‘David’, to the Mediterranean coast and small towns: Lucca, Pistoia, Toscana and Trato being favorites; each with unique cuisine and architecture.
Retreat artists had the opportunity to capture rich, vibrant impressions directly from the source, either in the form of sketches, notes, and coloured impressions, and then make more substantial pieces in the studio at the Hotel Croce di Malta.
Elisabeth assumes a quiet place of wisdom as she works with and guided each student with individual care, according to his or her capacity and personal choice of direction. A master of contemporary art with 50 years’ experience of teaching and exhibiting, and winner of countless awards, Elisabeth is respected as being one of Australia’s leading contemporary female artists and colourists. She lives in Wedderburn, NSW.
"When a small group of people come together in a beautiful, stimulating environment with a common purpose, a positive group dynamic builds and intensifies over time. A whole new experience occurs where participants learn from the teaching artist, the place itself, and from each other, as friendships grow."
After years of teaching, Elisabeth still enjoys getting into the student’s world,sharing her sensibility with them, and delighting in their developmental leaps.
Elisabeth encourages artists to come ready for the adventure and beauty of Tuscany, knowing the experience will continue to feed their practice long after the retreat is over.
Interview with Elisabeth Cummings October 2009
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2 Comments
The painting experience of having the studio available day and night was really beneficial for the creative process. It encouraged me to try to capture unique qualities the beautiful Tuscan landscape
I am so thrilled that I joined the group and was a part of it.
I am still glowing
It was a great retreat. I loved it and the others participants were all wonderful. Elizabeth was a darling to us all. You too cared for us so well Ruth… so thanks heaps again! The studio was brilliant for light/space and ventilation.