Michelle is a returning teacher to Adventures in Italy. Keep reading to learn more about her and her class.
What are you most excited about in returning to Orvieto?
As an American expat in Germany, Italy is my favorite country in Europe! I have been to many places in Italy, and let me tell you Orvieto is such a special place. I love that Italien „la dolce vita“ vibe in Orvieto. Simply slowing down to the Italian pace. Meeting wonderful people. Soaking in rich history. Experiencing architecture and the breathtaking area in and around Orvieto. And of course great food and excellent wine!! Seeing old friends again – Frederico, shoemaker and his wife Hannah, an amazingling talented leather artisan and poet. Anthony, owner of the Blue Bar. The magic of Orvieto and its people casts a spell on you.
What do you hope your students will take away from your class?
How to experience Orvieto with all that it has to give and take the time to honor your creativity. It’s not always easy to give yourself permission to play and splurge on things that fill you with joy. I want to give each and every student the chance to experience not only the beauty of Italy, but also to honor and embrace their own creative voice. Stepping out into the unknown takes courage… I want to empower women to be more courageous. To simply do more of what makes them happy and experience authentic Italy!
What is it about teaching in Orvieto that’s so special?
The Italian language. Italian people. Italian architecture. The monastery that we will be staying in. Italian food – including gelato(!). Italian wine. Cobblestone streets. Being with a wonderful group of like minded creative souls… And of course Adventures in Italy! I am in awe of the friendships that Michelle has built over the years with your Italian business partners. Adventures in Italy is not about taking you to a place just to get some kind of superficial experience. So well organized and planned, it offers a depth and authenticity that have become rare in our fast-paced world.
How do you incorporate Orvieto/Italy in your teaching this week?
Orvieto will be incorporated in so many ways. Things we see, feel and experience will help us get our creative juices flowing. Mixing the media using paint, paper, stitch and fabric to create an art journal that each student will take home as a keepsake of the time spent in Orvieto.
What cultural experience are you most looking forward to?
I can’t say that I’m looking forward to only one cultural expierence in Orvieto. Absolutely everything on the itinerary is a wonderful experience. Whether it’s an Etruscan cave tour, cooking class, olive oil tasting, tour of the Duomo, or the wine tasting – each one so special, unique and captivating!
What are you most excited to share with your students?
Definitely my love for the Italian culture paired with creative play. Simply. Soaking. It. All. In. To bring the beauty of Italy not only into their art journals but also into their hearts and souls.
Do you have a favorite spot to people watch?
I definitely have many favorite places. Not only to watch people but also to soak in the amazing view in and around Orvieto.
The piazza at the Duomo is the perfect place to sit and watch what’s going on – or at the Blue Bar if you like it a bit more quaint… and the wall around the city of Orvieto if you want soak in the breathtaking view. You must know, the location of Orvieto is so special – atop a rocky plateau of tuff stone you will experience the beauty of this historic city, with its winding paths and hidden corners.
What’s your favorite flavor of gelato?
I’m a woman of many moods… and they all require different flavors of gelato. So to tell you the truth, my favorite gelato will probably be different from day to day! 😉
Anything else you’d like to add?
Memories can only be made when we step out. With open hearts and an adventurous soul. Give yourself permission to play.
Click HERE for more information or to register for Michelle’s class
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