Italian images

By Paul Pickering
IN THEIR new exhibition, La Dolce Vita in Italia, a group of hills artists show that they have not only painted The Sweet Life – they have lived it.
Having embarked on an artistic journey to the hillside region of Emilia-Romagna near Tuscany the group has returned with a collection of breathtaking landscapes and quaint depictions of traditional Italian village life.
Their works will be on display at Sherbrooke Art Gallery until Sunday, 17 June.
The idea for the September 2006 tour was conceived by Ferntree Gully resident Janette Garbuio who had previously visited the area to stay with relatives.
Upon returning home, Ms Garbuio would often attempt to recreate the stunning images that lingered in her mind’s eye.
So Ms Garbuio and Marina Cook of Upper Ferntree Gully decided to gauge the local interest in an organised painting and walking tour of the Italian countryside.
The 16 person touring party consisted of eight painters who observed and represented the region’s rolling hills, 15th century stone architecture and local cultural centres.
Based in the town of Savoniero, which has a population of just 50 people, the group was warmly embraced by their hosts.
“The locals were curious yet proud that these strange Australian artists would choose to paint their land, buildings and people,” Ms Cook said. One of the most pleasing things about the tour for Ms Garbuio was the authenticity of the experience.
“The ability to mingle with locals, learn a little of their ways and record these experiences in artwork is something not experienced in larger Italian cities,” she said.
“The locals treated us like family and we felt if we ever returned, we would be welcomed with open arms.”
In fact, the ladies are planning a return in May 2008 and are inviting people to express their interest to Ms Cook on 9730 3503.
The Sherbrooke Art Gallery is on Monbulk Road in Belgrave.
Opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm.