Abstracting the Land & Sea

Join artist Jodi Ohl for a five-day immersive painting retreat at Chiaraluce Country
House in the beautiful Le Marche region of Italy.
This workshop invites artists to explore abstraction inspired by the surrounding
landscape — the land, sea, and atmosphere — while moving beyond literal
representation. Rather than painting what we see, we will respond to the experience of
place through color, mark-making, texture, and layered surfaces.
Throughout the week, students will work on primed but unstretched canvas using acrylic
paint along with a variety of mixed media and mark-making tools. Jodi will share
demonstrations and studio exercises that encourage exploration, thoughtful layering,
and intuitive decision-making.
This retreat emphasizes a slower approach to painting. Participants are encouraged to
immerse themselves in the creative process without pressure to produce finished work.
Inspired in part by the philosophy of Wabi Sabi, the practice welcomes unexpected
outcomes and embraces the beauty of imperfection and change.
Alongside studio work, students will also gather ideas and observations through
journaling, sketching, and quiet reflection. Jodi will share several of the studio practices
that guide her own work, helping participants build a deeper connection between
inspiration, process, and personal expression.
Time will be shared between guided studio sessions, independent work, and informal
discussion.
Beyond the studio, the retreat offers opportunities to enjoy the culture and landscape of
the region together. Highlights of the week may include:
 Seaside walks along the nearby Adriatic coast
 A hands-on Italian cooking lesson with the local chef
 A visit to the surrounding area for wine tasting or sightseeing (details to be
confirmed)
 Shared meals and relaxed evenings with fellow artists
This retreat is open to artists of all levels who are curious about abstraction and
interested in working in a supportive and relaxed environment.

Spaces are intentionally limited to keep the group small and allow for meaningful
interaction and individual guidance

*Most supplies are included other than brushes and a few marking making tools.
Students are encouraged to bring a small journal to document their journey in an
artful way and to take notes during the experience. We want you to fully immerse
yourself during our creative time together so you can let go of the stress of
traveling with art supplies and just enjoy the workshop.