SEPTEMBER 22-29 2025
TOUR CONCEPT
This retreat is designed for artists and painting enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Southern Italy’s Apulia region, the homeland of instructor Silvia Belviso. Our mission is to provide a unique artistic experience where participants can draw inspiration from some of the region’s most authentic and captivating locations.
WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?
This retreat is ideal for:
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Artists and painting lovers seeking to capture the beauty of Italy in their work.
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Travelers in search of an authentic and creative experience in one of Italy’s most charming regions.
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Anyone looking for a peaceful and inspiring environment to nurture their passion for art.
WHO IS THIS RETREAT NOT FOR?
This retreat may not be suitable for:
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Children.
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Travelers who prefer fast-paced itineraries.
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Those seeking traditional tourist spots instead of hidden, authentic locations.
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Individuals who may have difficulty walking through village streets and countryside areas.
STYLE & LEVEL
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Accommodation: A stunning, traditional LOCAL FARM (Apulian Masseria)
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Transportation: High-quality private transport (minibus throughout the retreat).
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Experiences: Focused on art, culture, and personal connection.
GROUP SIZE
12-16 guests max + Retreat Leaders
THE INSTRUCTORS
In 2020, Silvia Belviso and Dru Blair established the Blair Center for the Arts, bringing their extensive artistic expertise to the Charleston community. Silvia, an internationally renowned Italian painter, moved from Southern Italy to Charleston in January 2020. Her work, inspired by ocean scenes and ranging from realism to impressionism, is displayed in prestigious local galleries like Dale Gallery and Sandpiper Gallery. Dru, initially pursuing a career in medicine, discovered his passion for art during his senior year at Furman University. After earning a master’s degree in Fine Art and working as a commercial illustrator, he founded the Blair School of Realism in 1997. Dru has traveled the world as a guest instructor, sharing his knowledge of photorealistic painting techniques. Together, Silvia and Dru offer a wide range of art classes at Blair Center for the Arts, nurturing creativity and skills in students of all ages and levels.
PROGRAM
Day 1 - Mon September 22: Arrival & Welcome
Arrive at Bari or Brindisi Airports. Transfers can also be arranged from Lecce or Bari train stations for those already in Italy.
Travel to Salento and check in at the charming Masseria Limbitello, a traditional Apulian farmhouse surrounded by 75 acres of nature. Enjoy a welcome aperitivo and retreat presentation with your guide and retreat leaders.
End the day with a delicious welcome dinner and overnight stay at the Masseria, offering a peaceful, authentic Apulian experience.
Day 2 - Tue September 23: Lecce Exploration & Painting
Start the day with breakfast at the Masseria and your first painting session with Dru and Silvia. After lunch, enjoy a guided 1.5-hour tour of Lecce, exploring its Baroque architecture, Piazza Duomo, and the Roman Amphitheater. Visit a local papier-mâché workshop, a traditional art of Lecce. In the afternoon (4:30 PM - 6:30 PM), join Dru and Silvia for a painting session in the heart of Lecce. End the day with dinner at a local tavern before returning to the Masseria.
Day 3 - Wed September 24: Otranto & Coastal Adventure
After breakfast, take a private boat tour along Otranto’s breathtaking coastline, enjoying local aperitifs and prosecco. In the afternoon, join Dru and Silvia for an en plein air painting session. Explore Otranto’s historic center, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and its famous floor mosaics. Finish the day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the Masseria.
Day 4 - Thu September 25: Torre dell'Orso & Apulian Cooking Class
After breakfast, join Dru and Silvia for a morning painting session. In the afternoon, visit Torre dell'Orso, an ancient town with stunning cliffs and the famous "Two Sisters" sea stacks. Afterward, return to the Masseria to participate in a traditional Apulian cooking class, learning to prepare local dishes.
Day 5 - Fri September 26: Galatina & Menhir Winery
After a morning painting workshop with Dru and Silvia, enjoy a light lunch at the Masseria. In the afternoon, visit Galatina, home to the Basilica of Santa Caterina, famous for its Giotto-style frescoes. Then, explore Minervino di Lecce’s Menhir Winery to learn about local wine production. End the day with a delightful dinner and wine tasting at the winery.
Day 6 - Sat September 27: Gallipoli
After a morning painting session, enjoy lunch at the Masseria. In the afternoon, visit Gallipoli’s historic center and its Baroque churches. Then, head to Cutrofiano to tour an ancient Farmhouse, known for wine and olive oil production. Explore the vineyards, olive groves, and underground oil mill before an outdoor painting session. End the day with a delightful dinner, featuring local products, and return to the Masseria for an overnight stay.
Day 7 - Sun September 28: Grecìa Salentina
After breakfast, we’ll head to Grecìa Salentina, visiting Corigliano d’Otranto Castle. You can choose to visit the Kora Contemporary Art Center, the castle, or a mosaic art workshop by Stefania Bolognese. The day ends with a delicious meal at agriturismo "Lu Schiau," savoring organic, farm-to-table Salento dishes. We’ll toast to new friendships and the first Blair Center for the Arts Painting Retreat in Puglia before returning to the Masseria for a final night in Apulia region.
Day 8 - Mon September 29: Bari the capitol of Apulia region
After breakfast, we’ll check out and transfer to Bari. If time allows, and depending on flight schedules, we’ll explore the Old Town, including the Basilica of San Nicola and its charming alleyways, where local women often make orecchiette pasta by hand. There will be free time for shopping or strolling. Lunch at a local restaurant can be arranged. Finally, we’ll transfer to the airport or train station for departure.
