Thoughts of Italy spark warmth and inspiration. Whether we love the history, heritage, food and wine, culture, art or the welcome of Italians themselves, being in Italy brings us to an exceptional quality of life. For many, the history of Italy, as expressed through art and architecture, draws us back repeatedly, but sometimes it is necessary to delve deeper to find the true stories of what made this country the treasure that it is. Because, on occasion, beneath Italy’s celebrated masterpieces lie compelling stories waiting to be retold.
In December 2025, Artemisia Gold, a UK-based non-profit organization that works to celebrate women in art while providing education, research, diagnostic campaigns and publications, will offer an exceptional journey through Italy with a focus on woman artists, past and present. Led by travel expert Kiki Keating, this intimate tour will take you through the ancient streets of Rome, the tranquil charm of Umbria and the glory of Florence to rediscover the masterpieces of forgotten female artists from centuries ago. Together, we will explore their connection to today’s female artists and artisans, watching them as they re-shape Italy’s artistic landscape and create exclusive Italian jewellery, fashion and more.
We will meet and learn from woman leaders who are creating their own history in Italy by visiting Il Borro in Tuscany to hear from Vittoria Ferragamo, who leads many of the estate’s sustainability initiatives, including organic farming and beekeeping. Under her guidance, Il Borro has become a member of the United Nations Global Compact, affirming its commitment to responsible business practices. She is also deeply involved in the estate’s equestrian program and in supporting local artisans within the medieval Borgo, a part of Il Borro, where she promotes craftsmanship as a living heritage. Passionate about women’s empowerment, Vittoria frequently represents Il Borro in international sustainability forums.
Participants will also take part in a workshop led by Vittoria Colonna, named after her Renaissance ancestor, the poetess and muse to Michelangelo Buonarroti. Vittoria studied painting at Rome’s Accademia di Belle Arti, trained as an opera singer in Tuscany and refined her performance craft at Dublin’s Gaiety School of Acting. A multidisciplinary artist, she works across textile art, painting, screenwriting, directing and embodied performance. Now based in Florence, she is the founder of Love Shamanka, an experiential, pop-shamanic lifestyle blending Kundalini Yoga, creative coaching and art. She is a member of FAF – Female Arts in Florence and was named a World Women Hour 2020 #ShesMyHero honoree for her contributions to women’s empowerment through the arts.
Next up is a calligraphy workshop with Betty Soldi, who descends from a Florentine family that has been making fireworks since 1869 and now leads a design consultancy studio. She infuses the essence of Renaissance Humanistic thinking into visual arts projects, creative direction, stationery, packaging and much more. Finally, we will meet and shop with Marina Calamai and Angela Caputi in their studios, both inspirational jewellery makers in Florence.
Participation in the December tour includes a donation to Artemisia Gold that will support the restoration of paintings in 2025-26. You will also automatically become a sponsor, ensuring your name will forever be tied to these projects and their legacy.
Sign up before August 31 and save $500 on the tour price.
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