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Who We Are
FOR CREATIVE ADVENTURES & ARTISTS' RETREATS
Petulia Blake, Ph.D.
Organizer & Creative Facilitator
Anthony Bologna
Hospitality Facilitator
(We are also available for private groups)
THE ITALIAN EXPERIENCE: For creatives & their work
Our guiding principles
Who We Are: Casa d’Arte is a community gallery in Abruzzo where art and service leadership are used as a bridge, connecting 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 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:
Artists' Retreats to Italy
Art Exhibitions
Artist-in-Residence with Cultural Immersion & Integration
Welcome to Casa d’Arte
Casa d’Arte Gallery invites artists from America to submit their work—not only for recognition or added value, but to create a meaningful and positive impact in the spirit of friendship and cultural connection in Italy. We also welcome individuals to visit and experience this breathtaking region alongside us. Casa d’Arte collaborates with visual artists, health and wellness yoga practitioners, and global exchange programs at colleges to cultivate creative dialogue and cross-cultural engagement.
In early 2025, I envisioned bringing the works of American artists to this region of Italy. In that very first year of launching the venture, we hosted two exhibitions that were warmly received and well attended by residents from the town and surrounding communities. Their enthusiasm and support affirmed our shared commitment to global citizenship and cultural exchange.
Before establishing Casa d’Arte, I founded Poetic Haven (PH) in 2019 in Connecticut. PH was an event space dedicated to providing emerging inner-city female artists with opportunities to exhibit their work and engage the community. The service and impact of PH were recognized on several occasions by the New Haven Arts Council. Today, that original mission has expanded into a global venture, continuing its commitment to creative empowerment across borders.
As a global space, Casa d’Arte is nestled in a medieval town in Abruzzo, Italy. Like the title of my book, My Happy Escape, this place is intended to be a refuge—a space for renewal, inspiration, and joy.
Petulia Blake, Ph.D.
Founder
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 Host 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.