An Alternative Processes of Photography Retreat in Italy
You will have the opportunity to delve deep into experimental photography and be inspired by the magical surroundings of Val D’Orcia. Nestled just minutes away from healing thermal baths, you can rejuvenate both your artistic spirit and physical well-being.
Immerse yourself in Creativity for 5 inspiring days in Tuscany
APRIL 6th-APRIL 12
PRICE $4,200: single occupancy
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Experience the beauty and charm of Tuscany at Villa Pienza. Nestled in the heart of the Val d'Orcia region, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and captivating medieval villages. Immerse yourself in history, art, and culinary delights, with the added allure of healing thermal baths. Conveniently located within 15 minutes of charming villages like Pienza, Bagno Vignoni, and Monticchiello, the villa provides easy access for exploration, whether by car or adventurous ebikes.
$2,500: double occupancy (how to get this rate here). Limited double occupancy available: first come first serve.
Then, drop us an email (hi@jessicakassinphoto) and we’ll coordinate the rest with you, step-by-step. We’ll be sending you a promo code and a special link so the 2nd traveler is booking IN your room, not a different room. The promo code for the 2nd traveler will ensure the two rates add up to $2,500 per person.
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Grazie mille for hanging with us through this extra admin step.
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What we will do
In cameraless experimental photography, the focus is on creating images without a traditional camera. Instead of using a lens, we will manipulate light-sensitive materials, employing techniques like exposing surfaces to light or chemicals for unconventional and imaginative image-making.
We shift from "taking" to "making" a photograph, exploring endless possibilities. Cameraless photography encourages experimentation, urging participants to use materials unconventionally, shaping a uniquely different and experimental creative journey.
The Schedule
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September 11th: Check in and Welcome DinnerWe will meet at the villa anytime after 12 pm. Welcome Dinner
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September 12th: Large Scale CyanotypeYoga class at 10 am followed by a brunch. After brunch we will begin our workshop by learning the history of Cyanotypes. Cyanotypes are one of the earliest and simplest photographic processes. The cyanotype process was the first fully realized non-silver-based process, discovered by Sir John Herschel in 1842. In his general exploration of light sensitive materials, he discovered that when a solution of ferric ammonium citrate combined with potassium ferricyanide was coated on paper, and exposed to sunlight, it resulted in a Prussian blue image formed by the photo-reduction of the ferric to ferrous. The cyanotype process was used to make blueprints for engineers and builders for about the next century beginning around 1876. We will work together on large scale pieces on fabric and paper. Free afternoon to explore nearby towns or beaches. Dinner in town.
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September 13th: Cyanotype on PaperYoga class at 10 am followed by a brunch. After brunch we will learn how to mix cyanotype chemistry and how to make them on paper. Afternoon hike in Maremma National Park. Dinner in town.
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September 14th: Adventure at SeaBoat day to Giglio Island
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September 15th: CyanolumensYoga class at 10 am followed by a brunch. We will learn how to make cyanolumens which involves combining cyanotype chemicals with photographic paper. Visit nearby town of Castiglione della Pescaia, one of the jewels of the Maremma. With its ancient fortress overlooking the blue water of the Tyrrhenian sea, it's one the most scenic of Tuscany's coastal towns
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September 16th: Toning CyanotypesYoga class at 10 am followed by a brunch. Free creative day to continue working on cyanotypes and learn how to tone them.
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September 17th: Check out by 11Check out by 11