Experience painting in some of Italy’s most inspiring locations, from the hilltop towns of Umbria to the timeless streets of Tuscany. These painting holidays are designed to combine creativity, travel and a relaxed studio environment in one of Europe’s most visually rich landscapes.
Guided by Alan Reed, each session focuses on observation, composition and technique, helping you capture the atmosphere and character of your surroundings.
Learn in inspiring surroundings
Paint on location surrounded by historic architecture, rolling countryside and changing light. These settings provide the perfect environment to develop your skills while enjoying the experience of Italy.
Suitable for all levels
Whether you are new to painting or looking to refine your technique, each session is adapted to your level, helping you build confidence and improve quickly.
Small group guidance
Enjoy focused instruction with practical demonstrations and individual feedback, allowing you to progress while working at your own pace.
More than just a holiday
Alongside painting, enjoy local culture, food and scenery. These trips combine creative development with a memorable travel experience.
Painting Holidays Led by an Award Winning Watercolourist
Italy has been a constant source of inspiration for Alan Reed, and many of his best known paintings were made there. His Italian work ranges from the Piazza del Campo in Siena and the view from San Gimignano to Todi and Casalalta in Umbria, along with Venice, Burano, Capri, Marostica and the Gran Sasso in Abruzzo. His painting holidays share that knowledge of the country's light, colour and architecture with fellow painters.
Why paint on location?
Painting outdoors teaches you to look closely and work with what is in front of you: shifting light, long shadows across a piazza, the warm stone of a hilltop town. Alan has practised drawing from observation for many years, and on location he shows you how to simplify a scene, plan your composition and capture atmosphere quickly, so you come home with paintings that feel alive rather than overworked.
Learning from an experienced tutor
Alan has over 40 years of experience in teaching Art and Design and has specialised in watercolour for just as long. In 2013 he won The Artist's Prize in the Royal Watercolour Society Competition, and his approach to painting is described in Theodora Philcox's book Landscapes in Watercolour. On his painting holidays he combines practical demonstrations with individual feedback, so beginners and experienced painters alike make real progress.
A relaxed pace
The painting holidays are designed to be as enjoyable as they are productive. Painting sessions sit alongside time to enjoy good food, explore the hilltop towns of Umbria and soak up the scenery, so there is space to rest, reflect and return to your easel feeling refreshed. Small groups mean everyone gets plenty of attention, whatever their level.
Not ready to travel?
If you would like to build your skills before joining a painting holiday, Alan also gives private painting lessons at his studio and gallery in Ponteland, for children and adults of all levels. To register your interest in a future trip, call 01661 820626 or get in touch through the contact page.
Bring Italy home with you
Alongside the painting holidays, you can explore a collection of Italian artwork created by Alan Reed, including scenes from San Gimignano, Siena and Umbria.
Browse available pieces here:
San Gimignano limited edition print
Paintings of Italy collection
Italy prints and artworks
Join a future painting holiday
If you are interested in joining a future trip or would like more information, get in touch to discuss upcoming availability and locations.