Lisa Wujnovich:

Lisa Wujnovich writes poetry and farms at Mountain Dell Farm in Hancock, NY. She holds an MFA in Poetry from Dew University, and is a frequent workshop leader at Hobart Women Writers Festival and a Bright Hill Poet.

Her poems can be found in numerous anthologies, including Ghost Fishing, an ecojustice poetry anthology. Her work can also be read in Collateral, Calyx, NOW, The Wide Shore, 5A.M., Naugatuck River Review, High Canary, among others.

Her anti-fracking poems were published and performed at the forefront of the anti-fracking movement in New York. She has two chapbooks, Fieldwork, and This Place Called Us, as well as other collaborative chapbooks. She co-edited with Brandi Katherine Herrera, the anthology, The Lake Rises, poems to and for our bodies of water. In 2024, her poem I Know How to be Helpful, was made into a Z’roah Press, letterpress limited edition book by Roni Gross and Peter Schell, as well as into a short film.

Lisa was a pioneer in the “farm to table” movement, growing vegetables and herbs for diverse New York City and Catskill restaurants. She has four years of herbal certifications from Susun Weed, Matthew Woods, and Hart Brent. She tends, and teaches through many herbal, flower and food gardens.

For further information contact lwujnovich@tds.net or @mountaindell at Instagram

Join poet, herbalist, and farmer Lisa Wujnovich for a soul-nourishing week of creative writing, delicious Umbrian cuisine, and immersive cultural exploration. Each morning, gather at Casa Della Zia in the medieval village of Vallo di Nera for generative writing sessions inspired by place, nature, and the senses.

Afternoons are for discovering the heart of Umbria with your host, Jessica Vecchione, as you wander ancient towns, meet local artisans, and share unforgettable meals—think focaccia fresh from a 200-year-old oven, mountain hikes, and a farm feast in the hills.

Whether you're an emerging writer or seasoned creative, this retreat offers space, inspiration, and connection in one of Italy’s most breathtaking regions.

Limited spots available. $4,000 per person (includes lodging, transportation, workshops, and meals—excluding dinner in Assisi).

Candace Rudd brings her Catskills-based Twisted Sister Yoga to Casa della Zia for a much-needed retreat focused on unwinding, rejuvenating, and female bonding.

Trip highlights include rooftop yoga sessions overlooking the rolling hills of Umbria and guided visits to breathtaking Umbrian landmarks such as Assisi, Spoleto, and Norcia. These historic and inspiring locations provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and connection, making this retreat a truly unforgettable experience.

LORI & KATIE ROSA

Threads of the Past:

An Artistic Journey in Umbria

September 30th to October 7th

Embark on a creative journey through the heart of Umbria with a Quilting Workshop at Casa Della Zia, set in the charming medieval town of Vallo di Nera, from September 30th to October 7th, 2025. Under the expert guidance of master quilters Lori and Katie Rosa of Bloom in Margaretville, NY, this retreat is an invitation to find inspiration in the timeless beauty of Umbria’s landscapes. As you explore the region’s ancient villages, olive groves, and breathtaking views, you’ll gather photos, sketches, and ideas to breathe life into your own quilts. Lori and Katie will help you weave your visions into stunning creations, with a special showing of the work at Bloom after the retreat. Come, immerse yourself in Italy’s rich culture, and discover the artistry that awaits within you.

JEANETTE PLATANIA - HARPER

Italian & Sicilian Maiolica-Style

Painting Workshop -2026

May 11th to May 18th

Italy is renowned for its ceramics, with designs recognized worldwide. In this class, you'll create bright, whimsical paintings inspired by Italian and Sicilian designs, including those from Deruta. Using a simple technique, you'll learn to create bold acrylic works on paper, suitable for painters of any skill level.

Participants will leave with several completed pieces.

About the artist: Jeanette Platania-Harper is a natural artist whose work reflects her Sicilian-American heritage. Her maiolica-style paintings and modern henna designs are influenced by Sicily’s rich folk art traditions. Based in the Catskill Mountains, Jeanette owns Aunt Jet’s at 68½ Main Street, Delhi, NY.

Candace Rudd brings her Catskills-based Twisted Sister Yoga to Casa della Zia for a much-needed retreat focused on unwinding, rejuvenating, and female bonding.

Trip highlights include rooftop yoga sessions overlooking the rolling hills of Umbria and guided visits to breathtaking Umbrian landmarks such as Assisi, Spoleto, and Norcia. These historic and inspiring locations provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and connection, making this retreat a truly unforgettable experience.

LARS ELLING LUNDE

A Focus on Umbria

Travel Photography On the Go

Spring 2026

Explore the breathtaking landscapes, art, architecture, and people of Umbria while honing your visual storytelling skills with acclaimed photographer Lars Elling Lunde. This hands-on, intermediate-level workshop focuses on understanding light, composition, and cultural sensitivity to elevate your craft. Through guided lessons and field practice, you'll capture the vibrant colors and textures of Umbria’s culture while refining techniques such as working with light, composing impactful shots, and mastering camera settings in a fully manual mode.

Each day combines morning discussions on techniques and goals with immersive fieldwork in diverse environments, rain or shine. Evening sessions provide opportunities to review your progress and gain personalized feedback, all in a relaxed, social setting. Essential equipment includes a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a suitable lens, and a love of documenting the world. With over 37 years of experience, Lars brings a wealth of expertise and a spirit of adventure to make this workshop both educational and unforgettable.