Testimonials
Over the past decade, artists, designers, educators, and curious thinkers have joined Art Immersions journeys across Italy, France, Spain, and India. Below are reflections from participants about their experiences.
From our most recent Paris retreat
(September, 2026)
Paris
(May/June, 2026)
France
"I would say, just go! It's more than an art experience, it's about creativity, connection, discovering Paris in a different way, and giving yourself the space to slow down and be inspired. I came home with beautiful memories and a renewed creative spark."
Sylvie
Paris, France, 2026
"Joining your group was the best solo experience I've had. Felt welcomed and comfortable enough to speak freely and create without expectations. Sitting into the night at long tables sharing meals together at the local restaurants, trying new food, the wine and laughter! The experience was magic."
Christine
Paris, France, 2026
"Being in Paris was an added bonus. The best part was gathering with creative, intelligent women who all had the same goal to get away from their everyday life and pursue creativity, friendship and experiences in a different country without everyday distractions at home."
Jackie
Paris, France, 2026
“Every day was a masterpiece — intellectually rich, emotionally recharging, and unforgettable.”
Nora
Paris, France, 2025
“Catherine creates an environment where creativity and culture come alive.”
Katya
Paris, France, 2026
“The best part of the Art Immersions experience was meeting artists from around the world. I left with a renewed commitment to feeding myself creatively, mentally, and culturally.”
Alexa
Paris, France, 2024
“I came home seeing color differently. It wasn’t just a trip— it was a shift in perception.”
Andrea
Arles, France, 2025
"It was enchanting to make art in an open-air structure in the French countryside. Our days were filled with talk and laughter while learning from a calm and inspiring instructor. Being part of the AIP group helped me find new directions in my practice."
Copper Giloth (Professor U Mass Amherst, New Media Artist)
AIP Participant Burgundy France, 2019
India
“I’ve participated in two Art Immersions trips and they were both amazing. I’m relatively new to the creative world but AIP made jumping into my artistry uncomplicated and even splendid. Everything was carefully curated, from meals to experiences, so all I had to do was focus on my art and create in a beautiful setting with inspiring creatives. I returned home refreshed, re-energized, and with new completed works.”
Maks Yohannes (Economist & Designer)
Burgundy, France, 2019
Jaipur, India, 2019
“India taught me to look at pattern and color differently. Working alongside master craftspeople and learning about their dedication to handcraft was humbling.”
Anonymous Participant
Jaipur, India, 2018
“Live with enthusiasm. There is still something out there that can inspire. You never know where inspiration will come from. Apathy doesn’t get you to India.”
Jemme Aldridge
Jaipur, India, 2019
Italy
“The best part of Art Immersions was being in a truly lovely community with some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.”
Morgan
Siena, Italy, 2019
“I learned so much about myself and formed two great friendships. The experience was incredible and reinvigorated my love of art. I loved being in a community of interesting people, engaging in creative dialogue, sharing, connecting, and networking.”
Lauren
Siena, Italy, 2019
“The relationships I created were the best part of the experience. I came home with more knowledge
about myself.”
Anonymous Participant
Siena, Italy, 2019
“AIP was pivotal to my growth as an artist and person. I truly made connections I wouldn’t have dreamt of.”
Anonymous Participant
Siena, Italy, 2019
“The best part of the experience was meeting artists from around the world. What I took away was the importance of feeding myself creatively, mentally, and culturally.”
Anonymous Participant
Siena, Italy, 2019
“The program helped me see the world in a different light. I see colors differently now and find beauty everywhere.”
Anonymous Participant
Florence, Italy, 2015
“AIP changed the way I see. I became a more appreciative artist, designer, and person.”
Anonymous Participant
Florence, Italy, 2015
“A truly immersive experience. You aren’t just visiting the big tourist locations that every traveler sees—you are exploring smaller places and experiencing what it feels like to live there. We were guided to see things and try foods and wines we never would have discovered
traveling on our own.”
Anonymous Participant
Florence, Italy, 2017
“The program was beautifully organized but always artful. I never felt stressed—I could focus entirely on creating
and thinking deeply.”
Anonymous Participant
Florence, Italy, 2015
“I learned so much about myself and formed wonderful friendships. The experience reinvigorated my love
of art and creativity.”
Artist in Residence
Lazio, Italy, 2018
“The best part of Art Immersions is the interaction with students, artists in residence, and faculty. Time removed to focus, create art, and engage in dialogue
in a beautiful environment.”
Anonymous Participant
Lazio, Italy, 2018
“The best part of the Artist Immersions experience for me was being in a really lovely community of some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.”
Anonymous Participant
Lazio, Italy, 2018
“I loved visiting the small towns around the villa where we stayed. They revealed the roots of Italian culture
in a way the big cities never could.”
Anonymous Participant
Lazio, Italy, 2016
Spain
“Effortlessly fun learning and experimenting. Interactions with students and instructors from different disciplines helped expand our creative horizons.”
Anonymous Participant
Carmona, Andalucía, Spain, 2018