What is landscape painting?

Landscape painting is one of the oldest and most cherished traditions in the visual arts. The term refers to artwork that depicts outdoor scenery such as mountains, valleys, rivers, gardens, and more, with the goal of evoking a sense of place.

Camille Pissarro – Hameau aux environs de Pontoise (1872). Camille Pissarro, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Unlike painting in a studio, which offers control over lighting and environment, landscape painting often means working outdoors, or en plein air. This approach brings with it both spontaneity and challenge: the sun shifts, breezes stir your sketchbook, and shadows lengthen while you work. But therein lies the magic: your surroundings become collaborators in the creative process.

Plein air painting in Italy

If you’re dreaming of painting under the Tuscan sun, surrounded by olive groves, medieval villages and mountain peaks, a landscape painting workshop might be just the escape you need. You might be new to watercolours, or perhaps you’re returning to your brushes after a pause, but either way, there’s something deeply rejuvenating about painting en plein air in the company of like-minded people.

Plein air painting by the river Rosaro in Posara.

At the Watermill at Posara, we host landscape painting workshops that are deeply enriching and wonderfully soul-soothing. Below are our best tips for getting the most from your painting holiday with us.

Choose a setting that inspires

Location matters. One of the joys of staying with us at the Watermill is that you never have to go far to find inspiration. From the tranquil gardens to the riverbanks and beyond, our grounds offer endless subjects for your brush. But we also take you to some of the most beautiful spots in rural Tuscany, including the unforgettable Cinque Terre or the elegant walled city of Lucca.

• Fivizzano town centre: Capture the liveliness of market day amid its historic piazzas and charming local shops.

• Convento dei Carmine: A tranquil former monastery with graceful cloisters and a peaceful ambiance.

• Castello della Verrucola: A dramatic medieval castle just outside Fivizzano, surrounded by rugged natural beauty.

• Monte dei Bianchi: A serene hilltop village offering sweeping panoramic views and quiet inspiration.

Each of our painting tutors brings something unique. If you’re interested in vibrant interpretations of the Tuscan light, Grahame Booth offers expert instruction in watercolours. Or perhaps you’d enjoy the lively guidance of Randy Hale, who combines strong technical skill with plenty of encouragement.

Prepare, but travel light

Canadian artist and tutor Crystal Beshara offers practical advice for plein air painting, based on her years of experience capturing nature on location. Here are a few of her tried-and-true tips to help you make the most of your time in the field:

• Be selective. You don’t have to paint everything you see. Simplify your scene and focus on a compelling composition.

• Arrive early or stay late. Lighting changes quickly, and some of the best shadows and highlights happen at the edges of the day.

• Consider a tonal sketch before you begin painting. This helps you work out values and composition without committing to colour too soon.

• Use a limited palette. Fewer colours often yield more cohesive, harmonious paintings.

• Stay flexible. Weather, light and energy levels all shift—be kind to yourself and let the process unfold naturally.

While it’s tempting to pack your entire studio, a lighter kit makes for easier travel and greater flexibility on location. At the Watermill, we provide chairs and easels, so you can leave those at home. Bring your favourite brushes and paints, but rest assured that if you forget anything, we can usually help.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, such as June through August, keep in mind that Northern Tuscany can be quite hot. If you’re sensitive to heat, you might find it helpful to pack a personal handheld USB-chargeable fan. We also provide insulated refillable water bottles to help keep you cool throughout the day.

Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are also a must. But don’t worry if you forget, we usually have a few extra products at the mill for you to use if you’re caught out.

It also helps to come with an open mind. Some of our guests haven’t picked up a brush in years, while others are regular painters looking to refine their technique. Wherever you are on your artistic journey, this is your week to explore, learn, and enjoy.

Let the experience soak in

Over leisurely lunches, shared studio moments and excursions, many of our guests find lasting friendships as well as artistic inspiration. Don’t feel pressured to paint every moment. A quiet walk by the river or an afternoon nap in the garden can be just as creatively nourishing!

Here’s what one of our guests had to say about painting with Herman Pekel:

“We will remember your wonderful hospitality, delicious cuisine, comfortable premises, breathtaking environment, flawless service, kindness of everyone we met … a great blend of many beautiful and pleasant things that made our journey unforgettable. On top of all these pleasures painting with a master was certainly the icing on the cake. It was another delightful, challenging and learning experience we took with us. We learned a lot from Herman, and I cannot wait to practice the new techniques I learned.”

We believe the best painting happens when you’re relaxed and supported, and that’s what we strive to offer every guest.

We’d love for you to join us. Visit our painting holiday page or use our enquiry form to find out more.