Read what previous students say about their Montorno experience...

"Luckily for me, I have a friend who has attended Ellen Zelano’s session at Montorno a few times and she shared with me how wonderful of an experience it was. After hearing about her experience, I was definitely intrigued and thought it sounded like something I really wanted to do too. The only problem—I had never taken a formal painting class before in my life! But after being reassured that Ellen teaches to all levels and taking a very beginner painting class the winter before, I decided to take a leap of faith and sign up for the next trip. And I am so glad that I did! It was hard not to be creatively inspired by the beauty of the landscape in Tuscany, the other creative people on the trip, and the amazing hospitality at Montorno. The food was exceptional, the accommodations were charming, and Ellen is a truly wonderful teacher (I even took her class at the Corcoran when I got back). I can truly say that my experience was everything that I was hoping it would be and probably even better. As a matter of fact, I am hoping to go again this year!" – Anne B.

"What a joy it was to experience Italy like a local. Alessandro and Francesca were the perfect hosts. Their Montorno home is truly a lovely oasis to unwind and paint the surrounding beauty. The Apuane Alps were breathtaking as well as Montorno's flowers and fruit trees. I will never forget the constant cool breezes with scents of jasmine, lemon, and fresh mint. And of course the incredible smells from the kitchen as they prepared our daily meals.

It was such an honor for me to receive guidance from two exceptional artists, Danni Dawson and Mike Francis. Besides being a total hoot and fun to be around, Danni and Mike were extremely knowledgeable and hellpful. I learned a lot and came home with some beautiful paintings.

"Our class' favorite phrase was, 'Life is good.'" – Emily M.

"Next to having my children and marrying my husband, going to Italy and being with Ellen Zelano and the other painters at Montorno was the best thing I've ever done. We felt special being in this place were no other "outsiders" seemed to be. The absolute freedom I felt to do what I wanted to do everyday which was paint and eat, and sometimes shop in the fabulous street markets was so exciting. The beauty we saw everywhere we looked was always inspiring. The weather was perfect. Even the day we had a wild thunderstorm outside the studio in the mountains was perfect. It was a dramatic afternoon that I'll always remember. Our hosts, Alessandro and Francesca are two of the most cheerful and helpful people – they along with their little chef, Italia, cooked us wonderful food everyday for lunch and dinner – we could smell the cooking while we painted in the studio or outside. As a painter, I don't think I could ever be in a more perfect place – what a joy to be with other people who loved to paint and to be in such a place at the same time." – Peggy W.

"A wonderful experience! The instruction was stimulating and challenging. I loved staying off the tourist's beaten path; yet having the chance to visit special towns. The spectacular Tuscan countryside and fabulous meals added an extra touch. Francesca, Alessandro and Italia made me feel that I was a guest and very much at home at Montorno." – Jennie B.