# Portraits and Figures in the Landscape Retreat with Artist Michelle Dunaway in Italy Discover the art of alla prima portrait and figure painting with renowned artist Michelle Dunaway in the rolling hills and historic villages of Tuscany. With Michelle's expert guidance, you'll work from a live model in the studio and outdoors to create a personal collection of portrait, figure, and landscape paintings inspired by local culture.Michelle will walk you through her process for creating lifelike figures in the landscape, while your studio work will focus on portraiture. Through her focused demonstrations, you'll learn about painting from life, color mixing for skin tones, and composition while improving your ability to paint the human form expressively.Be inspired by two guided art trips: one to San Gimignano, the medieval hill town famous for its soaring towers, cobblestone lanes, and sweeping views of the Tuscan countryside, a place where every corner feels like a painting in itself. The other, a journey through the Chianti Classico region, where rolling vineyards, olive groves, and centuries-old wineries create a landscape rich in color, texture, and inspiration.Stay at a historic vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees, gardens, and soft Tuscan light. Take time to swim, rest, and gather with others who share your love for painting. Meals are prepared fresh each day by a private chef, and the group is kept small to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. ## Details - **Dates:** October 12 - 19, 2026 - **Location:** Certaldo, Florence, Italy - **Starting Price:** $4,650 - **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting) ## Overview What's includedArt classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Michelle DunawayLive model for classes, Gamsol7 nights of accommodation at a historical Tuscan estateExclusive use of the Fienile Fornace and Casale Fornace villas with their living quarters and common areas, a swimming pool, and beautiful Italian gardensMeals: 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by your private chefSnacks including fruit, biscuits, coffee, tea, and filtered water available throughout the daySpecial three-course welcome and farewell dinnersA special traditional oven-made pizza partyAn exclusive wine-tasting experience in the Holmo gardenItalian wine served with dinner every dayArt trip to the Chianti Classico region with opportunities for painting and sketching on locationArt trip to San Gimignano with opportunities for painting and sketching on locationPrivate transportation for all planned activitiesExperienced UpTrek retreat host available throughout the dayRound-trip transfers from/to Florence Airport (FLR)All local tourist taxes and feesAccess to a private Facebook group with Michelle Dunaway and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceArt supplies - a detailed list of art materials recommended by Michelle Dunaway will be provided five months before the retreatTwo lunches during the art tripsTips for staffExtra costs guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Alla Prima Portrait and Figure Retreat Join award-winning artist Michelle Dunaway for an immersive week of portrait and figure painting in the golden heart of Tuscany, where olive trees stretch endlessly across sunlit hills. Benefit from Michelle's guidance and group demonstrations and master key elements that will make your artwork both lifelike and expressive.You’ll study how light defines form and mood while working with a live model. Hone your figure painting skills using the Tuscan landscape to your advantage, while working on expressive portraits in the venue's bright studio. Michelle will guide you through her complete painting process, from alla prima essentials (composition, color mixing for skin tones) to more advanced techniques, such as implementing color temperature within skin tones to create luminosity and form. You'll learn the intricacies of edges and brushwork and how to use them to lead the viewer's eye through your composition.You'll thoroughly explore the fundamentals of painting that are needed to create convincing figures and portraits. Beyond technique, Michelle will show how to bring a sense of life and emotion to a portrait, moving it past likeness into genuine expression. She’ll share her methods for achieving this and provide individual guidance tailored to each student’s current work and long-term artistic growth.The retreat will cover advanced techniques and is recommended for artists with some familiarity with portraiture/figure painting. Throughout the week, Michelle will offer focused, one-to-one instruction, as well as group demonstrations. Her tailored feedback will help you strengthen your technique and clarity of vision. By the end of the week, you've have completed a collection of portraits, figure paintings in the landscape, and a deeper understanding of how art intertwines with Tuscany's rich history. Some topics covered in the classes include:The step-by-step process for creating alla prima portraits/figure paintings from life;Figure painting in the landscape - integrating the human form with natural surroundings;Understanding light and atmosphere;Composition and mixing for natural, lifelike tones;Advanced techniques of color temperature nuances, shifting your subject in space;Brushwork, edges, and leading the eye through your composition;Working with live models: observation, gesture, and proportion;Capturing breath and aliveness in your paintings;Techniques for plein-air painting and adapting to changing light;Taking and using reference photos effectively while on location;...and much more!Beyond the classroom, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the stunning Tuscan landscape, relax, and connect with a group of like-minded artists over a glass of wine. You'll stay in a beautiful historic venue nestled in the Tuscan hills and enjoy art trips to explore the region’s hidden treasures: a journey along the scenic Chianti Classico trail and a visit to the medieval town of San Gimignano. Michelle will guide you in taking amazing reference photos and sketching, based on her lengthy experience of utilizing alla prima sketches made on-location when creating complex studio paintings. ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Florence Airport for your 3:00 PM transfer and embark on a scenic drive through the stunning Tuscan countryside to your retreat venue, a historic estate nestled among rolling hills and vineyards. Once you've settled into your room, participate in an orientation tour of the property, where you’ll discover its tranquil gardens, welcoming common areas, and breathtaking landscapes that will inspire you throughout your artistic journey.As the evening unfolds, gather in the Holmo Garden for a delightful wine-tasting session with Michelle Dunaway and your fellow artists. Enjoy fine Italian wines while discussing art, technique, and the creative process. The night continues with a welcoming three-course dinner, providing the ideal chance to relax, connect, and anticipate the days of artistic exploration that lie ahead. ### Day 2: Art classes at the venue Awaken your senses with a delightful breakfast and a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee as you join Michelle and the venue hosts for a warm and welcoming check-in. After connecting with fellow artists, get ready to dive into the first class of your inspiring retreat.Your first workshop starts with a brief overview of the course structure and what you can expect to learn, followed by an introduction to your materials. Michelle will demonstrate in oil, but you're free to use any medium you're comfortable with. Soon thereafter, start your first portrait piece as you paint from a live model. Michelle will demo some of her favorite techniques and walk you through the step-by-step process of crafting a wonderful portrait from life.Take a break with a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, set out with your group in search of a suitable plein-air spot among the sprawling vineyards of the estate. Take advantage of the golden evening light and start a new piece, focusing on the figure in the landscape. Michelle will help you integrate these two elements and introduce essential concepts of framing and composition.As the sun dips behind the hills, gather around the table for a relaxed dinner, share stories from the day, and enjoy a glass of local wine as the night air fills with the scent of lavender and earth. ### Day 3: Trip to San Gimignano Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, preparing for another inspiring day in the heart of Tuscany.Set out for San Gimignano, a town seemingly untouched by time, where medieval towers rise proudly against the soft Tuscan sky. Known as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers endless inspiration. Wander cobblestone streets lined with honey-colored stone buildings, browse lively piazzas filled with local artisans, or pause at panoramic viewpoints overlooking vineyards and olive groves that stretch for miles. Sketch as you go, or simply gather impressions to use later in your landscape and composition work back at the studio. Later on, enjoy lunch on your own at a local trattoria.Return to the venue for an afternoon art session. Building on the morning's experience of painting the ancient San Gimignano, you'll continue working on your landscape paintings in the studio. Michelle set time aside to offer tailored feedback on your work so far, helping you figure out your next steps and identifying which areas need improvement. Working slowly and with care, the storied past of the town will unfold again through your hands.As evening settles, gather with the group for a leisurely Tuscan dinner paired with local wine. Share sketches, reflections, and laughter as you unwind from the day. ### Day 4: Art at the venue Ease into the day with a relaxed breakfast and a steaming cup of coffee, letting the quiet rhythm of the morning ground you.This morning will have you return to your portrait studies, starting an entirely different piece with a new pose. Once again painting from a live model, follow Michelle as she demonstrates her preferred techniques in mixing colors, creating luminous skin tones, and leading the viewer's eye through the composition. If you need an extra hand, don't hesitate to ask Michelle for some one-to-one guidance.After a satisfying lunch, the afternoon will be all about figure painting within the landscape. Here, proportions and composition take center stage as you paint the live model outdoors with the verdant olive groves as your backdrop (weather permitting). Towards the end of the class, Michelle will present a short tutorial on how to best gather reference photos while out and about, in preparation for your upcoming trip to the Chianti Classico trail.As the evening unfolds, gather for a cozy dinner accompanied by a glass of local wine, surrounded by warm company and the satisfying feeling of a day well spent. ### Day 5: Trip to Chianti Classico Fuel up for the day's adventures with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee before setting out into the sunlit hills of Chianti Classico, one of the most iconic regions in Tuscany.Your first stop is the charming hilltop town of Castellina, where ivy gracefully climbs stone walls and cobbled lanes open into delightful small squares lined with inviting cafés and shops. Stroll at your own pace, soak in the vibrant colors and textures, and stop to photograph whatever captures your imagination. If a moment feels right, pull out your sketchbook and capture a loose scene.Next, head to Radda in Chianti, where the gentle rhythm of daily life flows through shaded alleyways and quaint piazzas. Explore the village at your leisure, wander past weathered doorways, and savor a delicious lunch at a cozy local spot. Let the patterns of tile, shadow, and distant hills ignite your creativity for future paintings or color palettes.In the late afternoon, arrive in Panzano. This peaceful village, nestled between Florence and Siena, is surrounded by terraced vineyards and open skies. Here, time seems to slow down just for you. Sketch a passing moment at the edge of the piazza, snap photos of vineyard rows glowing in the warm light, or simply sit back and absorb the beauty of it all.Return to the venue as the sun dips below the hills, painting the sky with warm hues. Close the day with a relaxed dinner and a glass of local wine, sharing stories and laughter with Michelle and the group as the table fills with delightful conversations and the joy of togetherness. ### Day 6: Art at the venue Start your day by refueling with a delicious breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, then get ready for another exciting day of classes with Michelle at the venue.In the morning, take some time to wander the beautiful grounds with your sketchbook or camera in hand. Stroll along the garden paths, meander through the shaded terraces, and soak in the enchanting way light dances across the walls and plants. Pay close attention to the vivid colors and intricate textures of the gardens, and gather inspiration for your upcoming class.After enjoying a light lunch, return to the studio for an engaging art session with Michelle. You may continue the work you started during the previous art session or start a new piece altogether (inspired by elements seen during your morning walk, or by the San Gimignano or Chianti Classico trips). Focus on angles, composition, and proportions, then try out some more advanced techniques of color temperature and creating movement. As always, Michelle will be available for some tailored advice should you need some extra pointers.As the afternoon gently transitions into evening, unwind with a leisurely stroll through the gardens, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or continue painting if inspiration still flows. Conclude your day with a relaxed dinner prepared by the chef, paired perfectly with a glass of local wine, and savor the delightful flavors of the region. ### Day 7: Art at the venue Begin your day by sharing a delightful breakfast, taking a moment to reflect on everything you’ve accomplished during this inspiring retreat.Return to the studio with Michelle for a focused morning session that will weave all of your new techniques together. Start your final portrait piece and take note of how your approach has changed over the week. You may feel more confident in your artistic choices, have a better grasp on mixing colors and matching skin tones, or aptly portray more expressivity in your subject's eyes.Break for lunch, then return to the studio for your final class; add the last details to your collection of artwork, or start a new painting if you're feeling ambitious. Michelle will guide you in polishing your masterpieces and, importantly, help you understand when a painting is finished.The late afternoon brings a special event: a lovely group exhibition featuring the group's paintings. Participating isn't compulsory, but you may find that your peers have unique insights to share. Michelle will also provide individual feedback and critiques, ensuring you have a clear path of progress once you're back home.As the sun lowers over the hills, gather for a farewell dinner served with local wine. The evening is filled with laughter and reflection, a warm close to a week shaped by color, growth, and the landscapes of Tuscany. ### Day 8: Departure After a delightful breakfast with Michelle and the art group, it’s time to say your goodbyes and exchange any last-minute contact details. Prepare for your transfer to Florence Airport, with check-out scheduled for 10:00 AM. ## Instructors - [Michelle Dunaway](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/michelle-dunaway) — Fine Artist and Art Educator ## Accommodation ### Historical Tuscan Estate Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of a historic estate nestled in the heart of Tuscany, just a short distance from Florence. This 395-acre self-sustaining property perfectly marries traditional charm with modern comforts. Two beautifully restored villas, Casale Fornace and Fienile Fornace, will be exclusively booked for you and your art group. The villas feature vaulted ceilings, terracotta floors, and a welcoming fireplace in the common area. The stylish bedrooms are adorned with Tuscan marble and wooden accents. These adjacent villas offer convenient access to a private pool.Art classes can be enjoyed outdoors in the estate's picturesque gardens or the nearby countryside. Indoors, sessions are held in the piano room of the main villa, which also doubles as the dining room (the studio and dining room sections are separate). Please note that the studio is located a 5-minute uphill walk from Casale Fornace and Fienile Fornace (approximately 250 meters or 800 feet) - you will need to walk to and from the studio several times a day. The venue is not well-suited to guests with restricted mobility.The estate also boasts an outdoor pool, panoramic gardens, and spacious terraces ideal for al fresco dining. The property produces its own wine, olive oil, and truffles from its expansive woodland.With a history that traces back to Roman and medieval times, the estate seamlessly blends Italian heritage with contemporary comforts. The stunning views of the Val d'Elsa Valley provide a captivating backdrop for your art retreat.Please note that the venue is not suitable for participants with limited mobility, as some rooms are accessible only by stairs, and getting to the studio and accommodations requires a short walk uphill across cobbled paths. Additionally, being in the Italian countryside, you may encounter some insects during your stay. To preserve the historical character of the villas, the rooms are not equipped with window screens. ### Shared standard ensuite room (female only) You will share the standard ensuite room and its bathroom with another same-gender guest. The three shared standard ensuite rooms are located in Fienile Fornace, on the second and third floors. They feature twin beds and ensuite bathrooms. The rooms offer shared access to a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a dishwasher. Outdoors, there is a swimming pool, a barbecue, and a patio. ### Shared superior ensuite room You will share the superior ensuite room and its bathroom with another same-gender guest. The shared superior ensuite room is part of a beautiful apartment in Casale Fornace. It offers twin beds and an adjacent bathroom. It has access to a large, shared, fully equipped kitchen/living room with a rustic fireplace installed. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a patio with chairs and a table overlooking the beautiful Tuscan landscape. Access to the swimming pool at Fienile Fornace is provided. ### Shared bathroom - single room You will share the bathroom with one other same-gender retreat participant, but you will have this single room to yourself. The four single rooms with shared bathrooms are located in the spacious apartments of Casale Fornace, on the first and second floors. Each of the rooms is equipped with a comfortable double bed and shares a bathroom with one other single-occupancy room, meaning that two same-gender guests will share an on-site bathroom. The rooms also offer access to a large, shared, fully equipped kitchen/living room with a beautiful fireplace installed. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a private patio with chairs and a table overlooking the enchanting Tuscan landscape. Access to the swimming pool at Fienile Fornace is provided. ### Single superior ensuite room Four single superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. The rooms are located in beautiful apartments in Casale Fornace on the second and third floor. Each of the rooms is equipped with a comfortable double bed and has an ensuite bathroom. They also offer access to a large, shared, fully equipped kitchen/living room with a beautiful fireplace installed. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a patio with chairs and a table overlooking the beautiful Tuscan landscape. Access to the swimming pool at Fienile Fornace is provided. ## Food Indulge in the rich flavors of Italian cuisine, expertly crafted by the venue’s chef. Each meal is a celebration of local ingredients, including olive oil and wines produced on the estate. The chef, renowned both in Italy and internationally, infuses every dish with creativity and a deep respect for the region's culinary traditions.You'll enjoy meals that are as visually stunning as they are delicious, all while staying true to the rustic, homemade essence of Italian cooking. All meals are included, except for two lunches during day trips to San Gimignano and Chianti Classico.The retreat includes 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 7 dinners. Lunches during the art trips are not included.The retreat also includes a wine-tasting session, a traditional pizza party, and special welcome and farewell dinners featuring multiple courses and exquisite wines.Please notify us of any dietary requirements at least one month before the retreat. Unfortunately, we may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. We are also unable to cater to dietary requests made less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the event, or accommodate last-minute changes.Read more about the food options below. ## Getting There The art retreat with Michelle Dunaway will take place at a historic estate nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, where peace and tradition blend seamlessly. This stunning region is famed for its rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, and its charming medieval towns along the renowned Chianti Classico trail. The medieval village of Certaldo, famous as the birthplace of Boccaccio, is just 6 miles (10 km) from the estate. The romantic city of Florence, your pick-up and drop-off point, is also nearby, only an hour’s drive away (28 miles or 45 km).Check-in at the retreat begins at 4:00 PM on October 12, 2026, with check-out after breakfast by 10:00 AM on October 19, 2026.To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR).We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Florence, we recommend you fly to Rome and fly locally to Florence (local round trips starting from US$120, subject to change, approximately 1 hour journey time). It is best to arrive in Italy a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.Please hold off on booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.How to get from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), to the retreat venue:Private transfers at prearranged times to and from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately one hour.Arrival transfer: October 12, 2026 ⁠— 3:00 PM (leaving from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), arriving at the retreat venue around 4:00 PM)Departure transfer: October 19, 2026 ⁠— 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) around 11:00 AM)If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:Spend extra days at a hotel in Florence before and/or after the retreat, and catch the transfer shuttles from/to Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR)Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Tenuta di Sticciano, Via di Sticciano, 207, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy, approximately 200 EUR per way from Florence Airport. Please note that taxi fares may change.) ## Reviews Reviews of the venue:"Absolutely beautiful venue. Staff were very cordial and welcoming.""The venue was wonderful, accommodations were very comfortable and attractive, the staff was top notch…the villages we went to were charming, just the right amount of time, the guide was great, and the landscape was breathtaking! The overall agenda was well put together…loved the night of the aperitifs and music! (The climb to the top of the hill to the main villa was a little challenging for me, I must admit.) A great group of people…it was fun to mingle with an entire group of artists and compare notes. A beautiful relaxing environment, the service was outstanding, the food was delicious, well-presented, and very enjoyable…loved trying a lot of new things. I thought Ana from Uptrek was great and very helpful. She was always kind and quickly walked me through any questions I had prior to the trip."By the end of the week, I had mastered the daily hill climb up to the classroom area without being nearly as short of breath - that was a good exercise for me. The itinerary was great, and the tours to San Gimignano and Chianti were wonderful. Lucas, the tour guide, was an amazing historian, so use him when you can! And Patrick, the singing bus driver! The staff were most gracious and attentive. They even printed up copies of my reference photos so I didn’t have to wear down my cell phone battery. Kudos to all of them!""All of the staff was excellent, very accommodating. I loved the food and the wine, it was truly amazing. I loved the breakfast especially, I’m not used to having that kind of variety, lunch and dinner were equally wonderful.""The venue was just lovely! Beautiful and great inspiration to paint!""The venue was gorgeous and very accommodating.""This was an incredible retreat. Just unbelievable. The venue and accommodations were spectacular and the food was out of this world. Who knew I loved wild boar so much? The staff were accommodating and fun to be around, and I would pick up a little Italian as I got my morning cappuccino (also the best I've ever enjoyed)." ## Frequently Asked Questions Is this art retreat available to all levels? This retreat is best suited to artists with prior familiarity with portraits or figure painting.When is the painting retreat available?The art retreat with artist Michelle Dunaway in Italy takes place between October 12 - 19, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on October 12, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast on the last day, October 19, 2026.Is Wi-Fi available?Wi-Fi is available in the dining and living rooms, workshop spaces, common areas, and all rooms.I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this art retreat?Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.How do I get to the retreat venue?Please arrive at Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR). We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. It is best to arrive in Italy a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone. Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to Florence, we recommend you fly to Rome and fly locally to Florence. For more details, please see the Location tab. Please hold off on booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed.What should I pack? Please pack appropriate clothing, a swimsuit, sunglasses, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.What art supplies do I need for the workshop?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Michelle Dunaway will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins. Gamsol will be provided at the venue.What’s the weather like in Certaldo, Italy, in October?In late October, the weather in Certaldo, the closest town to the retreat venue, is pleasant and sunny. You can expect average highs of 22°C / 72°F during the day that drop to around 11°C / 52°F at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather before your departure for the art retreat and pack accordingly.Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?Please take out euros cash from an ATM at the airport in Florence. You will need cash for small purchases during the day trips, for tipping the staff (tipping is customary), and for any extras you might want to purchase at the retreat venue.How many people are to be expected on the retreat?Maximum of 16 participants.Do I need a visa?Guests traveling from the US, Canada, UK, EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter Italy for tourist purposes without a visa or travel authorization. Please contact us for further guidance.Are there any age restrictions?No restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.What language is used during the painting workshop and other activities?The retreat is available in English.Can a non-participating guest join me?We do not accommodate non-participants at our art retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the artistic and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.Is the retreat available to guests with low and limited mobility?Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited for people with low and limited mobility. The indoor art studio is located a 4-minute walk away from the accommodation spaces, and the art trips involve plenty of walking on uneven, cobbled streets.What happens if I need to cancel?Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: Purchase insurance. Please review our cancellation policy.Do I need travel insurance?Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. Click here to purchase your insurance plan.Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the reference code F215276 so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.Do I have to pay a deposit?No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged.Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed and your payment method is charged, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the artist or by UpTrek?If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation. ## Book This Retreat 👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/portraits-figures-landscape-retreat-artist-michelle-dunaway-italy#book)** — no deposit required. See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/portraits-figures-landscape-retreat-artist-michelle-dunaway-italy **Last updated:** 2026-04-22