From the Classical Atelier to the Verdant Garden

Biography

Norwegian born artist Cornelia Hernes, has throughout her career gravitated towards rendering

the human form and emotive expressions in the genres of portraiture and mythological motifs. In

addition she has a particular affection for the soulful and atmospheric qualities in the genre of

still lifes.

Cornelia earned a Bachelors of Fine Arts from The University of Victoria, BC, Canada in

2003, which exposed her to the paradigms of conceptual art. Following her BFA

degree, she pursued a classical realist art education from The Florence Academy of Art in Italy.

This pivotal training resonated with her intrinsic interest in classical art. From 2007-2020

Cornelia was a Principal Instructor at the Florence Academy of Art branches in Italy, Sweden and

in USA consecutively.

In 2018 Cornelia transitioned into online art education, extending her vast artistic experience to a

global audience of artists at all levels. After many years living abroad Cornelia now reside in

Åsgårdstrand, Norway.

See more of Cornelias work @corneliahernesartwork

About the Course

Join us for a five-day portrait painting retreat in the heart of Tuscany, where we will explore the

portrait through two complementary traditions: the discipline of the classical atelier and the

immediacy of painting outdoors.

Each morning, we will work from the live model in a atelier setting, focusing on the foundation of

classical portrait painting. Through a structured approach of building the painting and employing

observation techniques for capturing colour, value and structure you will develop a deeper

understanding of the techniques that bring a portrait to life. Daily demonstrations and individual guidance will support each stage of the painting process while strengthening both your technical skills and artistic confidence.

In the afternoons, we will move outdoors into the gardens and surrounding landscape of Hortulanus,

where a second portrait project will unfold in natural light. Here, we will embrace a more direct and

responsive approach, engaging with the ever-changing effects of light, colour, and atmosphere as

the sitter becomes part of the landscape.

Working on two portraits side by side offers a unique opportunity to experience how different

settings influence both our observation and our artistic decisions. The studio versus the outdoor

sessions will for instance present variations to the light. In one setting the light will be consitent

while outside, we must flow with the changes that nature presents while holding on to the

principles of structure. As a perk, this two fold classical portrait painting course will offer a

internalized understanding of portrait painting in the timeline of history with brush in hand.

Designed for a small group of participants, this retreat provides an inspiring week of focused

instruction, personal guidance, and artistic exchange in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside.

Cost

Just about everything is included in this price: airport pick-ups and drop-offs, transportation for the excursions, etc., breakfast lunch and dinner, accommodation, and tuition by Cornelia Hernes. Not included are your flights to Rome or travel insurance.

All cancellations are to be done within forty-eight hours from the time the deposit is made to get a full reimbursement.

• Private single bedroom at Hortulanus – €4,100 per person

• Double occupancy at Hortulanus – €3,700 per person

• Private single room at a nearby hotel – €3,700 per person

We hope to hear from you soon!