Who We Are
We are explorational leaders who provide a boutique art & cultural retreat experience in Italy.
Ideal for artists, creatives, art lovers, entrepreneurs, foodies, and those who are simply seeking inspiration on their life's journey.
Maximum of 6 guests
6 nights / 7 days
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Petulia Blake, Ph.D.,
Founder of Casa d'Arte (Abruzzo, Italy)
Lead International Facilitator for My Happy Escape, LLC
Anthony Bologna
Logistical Facilitator for My Happy Escape, LLC
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Email: retreat@myhappyescape.com
Phone: 203-394-7628 (WhatsApp/Text/Call)
Our guiding principles
Who We Are: Casa d’Arte is a community art gallery in Abruzzo and a boutique tour and retreat program, bringing guests to several regions in Italy for an immersive cultural experience. We use art and service leadership as a bridge to connect two global communities—the US and Italy.
Who We Serve: We serve American artists by showcasing their work in Italy. We collaborate with US-based individuals and institutions that value global experiences and cross-cultural learning. Our connection to the local Italian population is valuable for children and adults in the greenest region of Europe. We will continue enhancing the cultural, social, and economic well-being of the community in Abruzzo as American artists and explorers gain global exposure.
Where we are: Casa d’Arte Gallery is located in the historic center that clings to the mountainside of Civitaluparella in Abruzzo. It presents a breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding range, making it an ideal destination for lovers of art, nature and tranquility. We work directly with the local people to have a positive impact on their economic and social well-being. Casa d'Arte was created in the spirit of love—true amore. We have also formed several initiatives to promote conscious tourism for the sustainability of rural medieval towns in Abruzzo.
How We Sustain Casa d' Arte:
Artist's Retreats to Italy
Art Exhibitions
Artist-in-Residence with Cultural Immersion & Integration
Casa d'Arte
Your support and contributions will enable us to continue serving artists who desire global exposure and recognition while having a positive impact on local communities in Italy.
Casa d' Arte Village
Perched at 2,952 feet above sea level, Civitaluparella is a medieval town rich in history and tradition. Travelers will have the opportunity to connect with locals, explore the town, create, and unwind at Casa d’Arte, a haven for relaxation, creativity, and inspiration.
Home to a unique museum featuring antiques and archaeological artifacts—the only one of its kind in the region—it offers visitors a rare glimpse into the past.
What you'll explore:
- Mountain villages welcome you with warmth, tradition, and breathtaking views. There are castles, archeological sites, lakes, rivers, and the Adriatic Sea with Trabocchi along the coast.
- Savor farm-to-table meals in family-run cafés and restaurants. This is where the land (la terra) lives in harmony with the table (la tavola). This is a region with organic wheat, olives, grapes, and truffles in abundance.
- Become immersed in an authentic and simple Italian way of life to gain a better understanding of the strong, yet kind nature of the people.
- Move around calmly with nonnos and nonnas who have lived for decades with stories, and still embody the spirit of joy and generosity.