Italy Archives – McKenzie Interior Design
Plein Air Painting with Steve
Apertivo, yes please!
Soldata Romano II
One of the benefits of being in one place for a longer period of time is you make friends with the locals. This was especially helpful as Steve wanted to make copies of historic rare books and ephemera at the local rare books archives, to incorporate into his paintings. With some patience and help with translating, he got more than he needed, including the Roman soldier seen above, an atlas of the region from 1785, and a lawyer’s goat skin bound book of contracts from 1635, all incorporated into various works of art.
It wasn’t all painting, there was cooking to be done, in Annette’s fabulous kitchen, plus visiting local museums, sites and an artists’ co-op. Check out Annette’s many workshops here.
A new favorite, Mutti tomatoes mixed with simple garden produce were the base for many suppers.
One of the artists shared some scrap chunks of Carrara marble with Steve. What an amazing new conduit for his art, another blessing from travels and learning from new friends.
Sculpture by Steve McKenzie – Carrara marble 
Italian seaside
Umberto Beach Club at Forte dei Marmi
Charming village
Steve and Jill enjoying the vista at La Fortezza
Need a creative recharge? Who doesn’t?! How about an Italian abstract painting workshop? Complete with lodging, instruction and all supplies, and no previous experience necessary, just bring your enthusiasm for art, Italy and creativity.
Steve McKenzie is leading an abstract painting workshop at Annette Joseph’s magical La Fortezza in northern Tuscany on Sept. 19 – 24th. Inspiration is everywhere!
Inspiration abounds at La Fortezza
We were lucky enough to visit Annette earlier in May. The magic begins as you approach the home, and up on the mountain sits Annette’s fortress.
La Fortezza up on the hill
Annette, styling expert and author, has created beautifully appointed living and working spaces, as well as incredibly comfortable guest quarters for the students that are unparalleled. It feels a little like a visit to a monastery where furnishings and the views take you to a place of contemplation and inspiration. We’ll do a bit of shopping too, as part of the class, visiting the local market and antique shops.
These cozy places, coupled with a superb cocktail, and nibbles, encourage congregation and conversation.
We were greeted in typical Annette fashion with a delicious, as well as beautiful, Aperitivo of Negroni and nibbles, taken straight out of her new book Cocktail Italiano. A delicious dinner of pasta and salad followed, just reminding me of what a talented cook Annette is.
I am excited that a cooking lesson in the commercial kitchen will be part of our fall workshop. Can’t wait to cook on her La Canche stove!
Simply Scrumptious Pasta 
Stylish Kitchen Vignette
I strolled over to the La Fortezza vineyards with Annette and Jill. The beauty of this location really spoke to me and inspired me to paint en plein air. During the workshop we will take a picnic lunch out here and paint, eat and drink. The colors and vistas are one of the most inspirational places I have visited.
Vineyard View for Plein Air Painting. Photo credit: Jill and Steve McKenzie
On the stroll back to the house, I filled the market basket with wild flowers from the property as well as colorful roses from her rose garden. The most beautiful arrangement quickly came together in a beautiful pitcher from Annette’s copper collection. We will incorporate a quick floral arranging lesson during my workshop as well.
La Fortezza Floral Arrangement
I can’t wait to return and share all the fabulous experiences with my students during the workshop September 19-24, 2018.
Ask Steve why he is holding this boar head!
There are only a few spaces left, register today, and as they say in Italy, Ciao!