Blair Center for the Arts in collaboration with I for Italia presents
SEPTEMBER 21-28, 2026
ART RETREAT with Silvia and Dru Blair
A UNIQUE ARTISTIC RETREAT
Italy, with 58 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is famed for its
history, art, landscapes, and cuisine. Beyond the familiar lies
authentic Italy—welcome to Sicilia, welcome to Val di Noto!
Join us for an 8-day journey through this radiant corner of
southeastern Sicily, where golden baroque towns rise from
sun-drenched hills and the scent of citrus fills the air. Explore
Sicilian Baroque gems such as Modica, Ragusa, and Noto.
Explore the ancient city of Siracusa and visit a local winery.
Discover the essence of Sicilian life, an island with the most
fascinating cultural contamination!
Upon arrival at Catania International Airport, you will be met
and transferred by private minibus to the heart of the Sicilian
countryside. Your home for the next few days is Stacci Rural
Resort, an enchanting haven created from a lovingly restored
historic farmhouse (masseria).
Each space within the ancient masseria has been given new
life, now offering a warm and authentic retreat where the
timeless charm of Sicilian tradition lingers in the air.
In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner at the
masseria, where you will savor seasonal dishes inspired by
the region’s rich culinary heritage and prepared according to
the estate’s own farm-to-table philosophy.
DAY 2 - SEPTEMBER 22ND - NOTO
After breakfast at the masseria, enjoy a morning dedicated to
creativity and tranquility: from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, take part
in a painting workshop set in the serene embrace of the
Sicilian countryside. Surrounded by the vibrant colors and
gentle landscapes of the region, you’ll find inspiration in every
brushstroke! A light lunch follows at the masseria, prepared
with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the
flavors of the land.
In the early afternoon, transfer to Noto, a jewel of Sicilian
Baroque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With an expert local guide, you’ll explore the town’s
extraordinary historic center.
Dinner awaits in a charming traditional taverna in the heart
of Noto. Return to the masseria for overnight
accommodation.
DAY 3 - SEPTEMBER 23RD - SIRACUSA
After breakfast at the masseria, set out for Siracusa, an
ancient city by the sea, steeped in history and irresistible
Mediterranean charm.
From 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, take part in an en plein air
painting session—with the possibility of painting within an
archaeological site. This is a rare opportunity to translate the
soul of Siracusa onto canvas, inspired by its timeless beauty.
Enjoy a light lunch in a traditional osteria in the historic
center, savoring the authentic flavors of Sicilian cuisine.
In the early afternoon, discover Siracusa through a guided
tour, exploring the treasures of Ortigia Island. At 5:30 PM,
embark on an exclusive two-hour sunset boat tour—a
serene and magical experience enhanced by a plentiful
aperitivo on board, as the sun casts golden light across the
Ionian Sea. Return to the masseria in the evening for
overnight accommodation.
DAY 4 - SEPTEMBER 24TH - RAGUSA
After breakfast at the masseria, the morning is devoted to
nurturing your creativity: from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, enjoy a
painting workshop set amidst the tranquility and
inspiration of the Sicilian countryside. A fresh, seasonal light
lunch will be served at the masseria.
.In the early afternoon, transfer to Ragusa Ibla, a captivating
Baroque hilltop town. Accompanied by your expert guide,
spend 2–3 hours wandering its charming cobblestone lanes,
elegant piazzas, and exquisite architectural gems. Highlights
include the Basilica of San Giorgio, a masterpiece of Sicilian
Baroque, and Palazzo Cosentini, renowned for its intricately
sculpted balconies adorned with mythical figures. A special
visit awaits at the historic Cinabro Carrettieri workshop,
active since 1860, where artisans continue the vibrant
tradition of hand-painting the island’s iconic Sicilian carts.
Conclude the day with dinner in a traditional restaurant
before returning to the masseria for overnight
accommodation.
DAY 5 - SEPTEMBER 25TH - WINE TOUR & MARZAMEMI
After breakfast at the masseria, the morning is dedicated to a
painting workshop from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. A light lunch
will be served at the masseria.
In the early afternoon, depart for the prestigious Zisola
Winery, located near Noto in the heart of Nero d’Avola
country. Your experience begins at 3:30 PM with a stroll
through the sun-drenched vineyards, and a visit to the
winery housed within a traditional Sicilian baglio. The tour
concludes with a tasting of four select Zisola wines, each
paired with typical products from the estate and region,
complemented by their own extra virgin olive oil.
Around 5:00 PM, continue to the charming fishing village of
Marzamemi. Enjoy free time to wander through its quaint
streets, browse artisan shops, and admire the historic
tonnara (tuna processing house).
Dinner will be served in a traditional seaside restaurant.
Return to the masseria in the evening for overnight
accommodation.
DAY 6 - SEPTEMBER 26TH - MODICA
Start the day with an inspiring painting session led by Dru
and Silvia at the Masseria, followed by a light and refreshing
lunch.
In the early afternoon, depart for Modica, a UNESCO World
Heritage Baroque gem nestled between two valleys. Known
for its graceful architecture and world-famous chocolate,
Modica enchants with its atmospheric lanes, ornate
churches, and stately palaces. Enjoy a guided walking tour of
the historic center.
At 5:00 PM, visit Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, Modica’s oldest
chocolate shop, in operation since 1880. Here you’ll uncover
the secrets of their traditional “bean-to-bar” method, a craft
rooted in ancient Mesoamerican techniques. The visit
concludes with a tasting of Modica’s celebrated artisanal
chocolate—an authentic symbol of the city.
Dinner will be served in a traditional osteria in the heart of
Modica.
DAY 7 - SEPTEMBER 27TH - FINAL COOKING CLASS
Start the day with a creative painting session at the Masseria,
followed by a light and refreshing lunch.
In the afternoon, transfer to Agribarocco, a charming
countryside farm, for a hands-on Sicilian cooking class with
the delightful Nonna Ninetta. Your Sicilian Nonna will guide
you through the preparation of three traditional Sicilian street
food specialties. Guests are invited to take part at every step,
from shaping the dough to adding the finishing touches,
before each dish is cooked on the spot
Nonna Ninetta will share her recipes and stories in Sicilian
and Italian, while a team member will provide step-by-step
explanations in English. The tour concludes with a final
dinner featuring the dishes you’ve prepared!
Raise a glass to new friendships and the success of this
unforgettable Blair Center for the Arts Painting Retreat
before returning to the Masseria for your last night in Sicily!
DAY 8 - SEPTEMBER 28TH - CIAO SICILIA!
After breakfast at the masseria, check out and enjoy a private
transfer to Catania International Airport for your onward
journey, taking with you the memories, colors, and flavors of
an unforgettable Sicilian experience.
If time allows, you should consider spending one or two
nights in Catania, enjoying its history, authentic lifestyle, and
memorable views over the Etna volcano.
WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?
This retreat is ideal for:
-
Artists and painting lovers seeking to capture the beauty of Italy in their work.
- Beginning artists wanting to explore new mediums.
-
Travelers in search of an authentic and creative experience in one of Italy’s most charming regions.
-
Anyone looking for a peaceful and inspiring environment to nurture their passion for art.
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.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN RESERVING YOUR SPOT?
CONTACT US HERE
SEE YOU IN ITALY!
