SANDRA IAFRATE —Land, Light and Narrative: Contemporary and Mixed-Media Painting in Western Sicily

Sandra Iafrate is a multidisciplinary contemporary artist and art educator with over twenty years of experience in studio practice, teaching, and creative mentorship. She holds an MFA from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and approaches painting through a strong foundation in color theory, material exploration, and narrative development.

Her work has been exhibited internationally, with shows, lectures, and workshops across Canada, the United States, Italy, Portugal, and New Zealand. Exhibition venues include SCAD, the Toronto Artist Project, the Amsterdam Art Fair, the New York Art Expo, and McLean Project for the Arts. She is also a recipient of a Government of Canada Award for the Arts.

In addition to her academic training, Sandra has received advanced professional instruction from leading materials manufacturers, including Golden Artist Colors and Silverbrush Ltd., further informing her research-driven, material-conscious practice.

Sandra lives and works between Canada and the United States. Known for translating complex ideas into accessible and engaging learning experiences, her workshops emphasize close observation, confident use of color, and the development of a personal visual language—supporting artists at all stages of their practice.

Workshop Description

This 6-day workshop in Western Sicily builds strong painting and composition skills while encouraging artists to explore surrounding themes and develop visual narratives. Drawing inspiration from the landscape, atmosphere, and daily experiences of Western Sicily, participants will translate observations and moods onto the canvas through a thoughtful, selective use of mixed media.

Artists will learn to balance intention with experimentation to create cohesive, expressive work that reflects their personal voice and artistic vision. Desired outcomes can range from representational to abstract, and materials may include one or more media. The workshop emphasizes a clear understanding of methods, materials, and tools, empowering participants to continue developing confident, independent work long after the workshop concludes.

Workshop Inclusions

Included

• Welcome dinner and farewell event

• Boutique resort accommodations (private room with ensuite bath)

• Daily studio lunches

• Hotel dinners

• Professional studio access and materials support

• Instruction, demonstrations, and individual guidance

• Group transportation for scheduled site visits

• Airport transfers to and from Palermo International Airport

  
  

At Your Discretion

• Meals or refreshments enjoyed independently during site visits

• Personal excursions, shopping, or additional activities during free time

Materials Checklist

For a listing of materials needed for this workshop, CLICK HERE

Bring With You

• Professional-grade oil paints

• Professional-grade Acrylic paints are provided (but do bring other mediums if desired)

• Brushes: flat, filbert, and round (¼"–2", depending on scale)

• At least one palette knife (flexible, under 3")

• 8" × 10" through 16" x 20" primed panels or canvases (uniform sizes recommended)

• Sketchbook (8" × 10" or larger)

• 2B pencils, sharpener, kneaded + white erasers

• Drawing materials of choice (pastels, colored pencils, etc.)

• Archival papers, photographs or textiles for mixed media work are welcome

  
  

Optional

• Rolled canvas or canvas sheets for larger work

• Watercolors for sketches and studies

• Other paints and other drawing mediums

  
  

Provided in the Studio

• Standing and table easels, taborets, glass palettes

• GOLDEN Artist Colors professional grade acrylic paint

• Acrylic and oil mediums

• Mineral spirits and linseed oil

• Water containers

• Lint-free rags or paper towels

• Brush cleaning soap, studio aprons, non-latex gloves

  
  

Travel Notes

• Do not bring solvents or oils on planes

• Use paint tubes before travel; pack in double zip-lock bags

• Pack sharp or long tools in checked luggage

Included in the Workshop

Accommodations

Participants will stay at Hotel Baglio Custera, a boutique resort set in the countryside surrounding Marsala. The property is known for its gardens, open views of the seashore and countryside, and tranquil atmosphere. All accommodations are private rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

Cuisine

Meals highlight the flavors of Western Sicily, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Studio lunches and hotel dinners are included, offering an opportunity to experience regional cuisine rooted in seasonal traditions and simple, thoughtful preparation.

Transportation

Group transportation is provided throughout the workshop, including scheduled transfers to and from Palermo International Airport, as well as transportation to painting sites, studio sessions, and selected locations for plein air work.