Our first Artist in Residence Program at La Fortezza::Summer 2019

Well he's here! Our first ever artist in residence, Steve McKenzie has arrived, and he's set up shop in our studio. When he arrived, we visited our favorite art store in the neighboring town of Sarzana. He was shocked at the low prices, so he loaded up. I would not be surprised if Steve loaded a suitcase full of art supplies to take back to the US.We also paid a visit to the library in Fivizzano where antique books are archived. Steve will be using ancient maps, letters and documents from the region in his artwork. He talked to the head of the library in Fivizzano, with a little translation assistance from our intern Adri. We are planning a trip to the print museum as well since Fivizzano was the site of one of the earliest printing presses in the world.For one month, Steve will create an abstract collection based on inspiration from the region we live in the Lunigiana. The collection is yet to be named but will be shown here at La Fortezza on July 27th. We are super excited to welcome him and have our first ever art opening. I love his work, and I am very curious about how the Lunigiana will inspire his artwork.The best part is we all get to assist him and paint with him, including guests visiting this month. What a wonderful opportunity. It is assured that this program is something that we will implement every year in July.If you're interested in applying to paint, print, photograph, create and show here in 2020 please contact me at annette@annettejosephstyle.comIf you're in Italy and would like to stop by the opening on July 27th please contact me at the email listed above.Follow along on instagram, mine and Steve's, to see all the painting as well as the opening party at end of this month. We are so incredibly happy to be creating with Steve in Italy.xx Annette