Eco Art Retreat in Milazzo, Sicily

We understand that for many, the environment and the state of our planet are at the forefront of the way in which we now live our lives. It would be remiss of us not to address this, and the team at Creative Italy always consider our environmental impact in the courses, retreats and experiences we curate. One example of this is our Eco Art retreat in Milazzo Sicily.

Eco Art

Eco art, also known as  environmental art, is a form of contemporary art that is concerned with environmental issues and the human relationship with nature. Eco art often incorporates natural materials and aims to raise awareness about environmental issues whilst promoting sustainability, and inspiring positive change.

Eco artists use a variety of media, such as sculpture, painting and photography, to explore ecological themes and create works that have a positive impact on the environment. Some of the key themes explored in eco art include climate change, biodiversity, pollution, and sustainability.

Creative Italy believes that Eco Art can inspire people to take action to protect the planet for future generations. With this in mind we want to introduce you to the work of our expert artisan, who will share the tools and techniques to create pieces using recycled materials. We truly believe that if you immerse yourself in the act of creating something with your hands, away from your tablets, smartphones and screens, you are not only doing something which is beneficial for your own health, but in this particular instance you are contributing to a movement which is benefits the health of our own fragile ecosystem.

Why Milazzo?

The fascinating history, unique culture and stunning landscape, make Milazzo the perfect setting for an artist’s retreat. Founded by the Greeks in 716 BC, Milazzo can boast of being the Italian municipality which receives the most hours of sunshine throughout the day. A land which inspired myth and legend – it is believed to be the place which Homer writes of when Ulysses meets Polyphemus in the Odyssey. With sandy beaches, impressive architecture, coastal vineyards which boast views of Mount Etna and the neighbouring Aeolian Islands, there are countless reasons to visit Milazzo. We would like to add another reason to visit – our creative retreat with local artist Emanuela Ravida.

Born in Milazzo in 1985, Emanuela’s art focuses on the reuse and conversion of salvaged materials and the search for new artistic techniques. ‘For years I have been working on environmental sustainability’ says Emanuela, ‘and in my latest research I consider ironed plastic to be the most suitable practice for raising awareness of environmental education’. Thanks to the contribution of local citizens and companies, Emanuela has created art installations using donated plastic in collaboration with the local communities she has met during art residencies. Emanuela tells us that she has been ‘sharing these techniques when engaging with young people to increase an interest towards environmental protection through creativity.’

Our Retreat

The Eco Art workshop combines the creative act of making an art piece, with the recycling of materials. You will create the Carnet de Voyage, a travel diary where a traveller’s emotions are imprinted. A tool used extensively in the early 1900s by travellers exploring Europe, the Carnet de Voyage came to prominence during a period in which travel was a luxury reserved for the few. During the workshop you will have the opportunity to consider the connection between nature, our shared history and the present.

The Eco Art workshop will be hosted in a timeless place, Feudo San Pietro, an ancient residence of 1400. The Feudo San Pietro is a precious testimony of the past. In fact until 1800, it was the location of an actual state, planted in the heart of the territory, under the jurisdiction of Milazzo. With just 609 inhabitants and a surface of 15,71 hectares,  today we could liken the Feudo San Pietro to the Vatican City or the Republic of San Marino.

5 day of Eco Art workshop includes:

• 3 hours each day of activity which takes place outdoors, in the beautiful gardens of the Feudo San Pietro.
• Our talented artisan will introduce you to various techniques during the workshop, depending on which of the 3 workshops you chose (available during dates indicated below)
• You will enjoy an extraordinary experience on the last day in which 2 local artisans will join you at Feudo San Pietro, prior to a picnic where you will enjoy local dishes and wine, the artisans will share the secret and history of the three techniques:

1. Carnet de Voyage
2. Drypoint on Tetra Pak (eco engraving) & Painting en plein air
3. The use of Recycling Paper & Painting en plein air

Learn more about the Creative Community and bookings

The selection of dates for our small group retreats with the Creative Community is a crucial aspect of ensuring a truly immersive experience for all. The Creative Community is the group of participants and artists who shall take part in the retreat.

By carefully selecting dates that allow for a break from the digital world and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, the retreats foster an environment of creativity, growth and community building.

The goal of the Creative Community is to provide a platform for artists and creatives to come together, share ideas, and support one another in their respective artistic journeys. By offering these small group retreats, we are able to provide a unique opportunity for individuals to take a break from their daily routines, detox from the digital world, and focus on their creative passions.

We encourage EVERYONE to consider joining the Creative Community and take part in these immersive retreats. By doing so, you will have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, gain new insights and techniques, and ultimately grow as an artist. We believe that together, we can create a thriving community of creatives who are passionate about making a positive impact on the world through their art.

Booking Dates:

17th of April 2023: Carnet de Voyage:
booking deadline: 20th of February 2023
8th of May 2023: Recycling Paper & Painting plein air,
booking deadline: 24th of March 2023
12th of June 2023: Engraving on Tetrapak & Painting plein air,
booking deadline: 28th of April 2023
3rd of July 2023: Carnet de Voyage:
booking deadline: 25th of May 2023
18th of September 2023: Recycling paper & Painting plein air :
booking deadline: 1st of August 2023
16th of October 2023: Engraving on Tetrapak & Painting Plein air:
booking deadline: 1st of September 2023

Connect with the environment and your creative side & book your Eco Art Retreat today!