Blog

We had reservations for the high speed train to Florence, where we would change trains and head to Cinque Terre (literally translated "five lands"). I noticed a sign in the station that stated some train times might be modified due to train strikes. I felt relieved when we boarded the train to Florence that out train wasn't affected.

Well, I spoke too soon!

After we changed trains in Florence, our train stopped in Pisa. Something was spoken over the intercom in Italian, and suddenly everyone got off the train...that is, everyone except those of us that didn't speak Italian! When we realized what was happening, we got off the train, and all the Americans congregated together as we tried to figure out how to get to Cinque Terre. We discovered there were no car rentals or buses going that way.  Imagine a herd of Americans going up and down stairs from platform to platform (5x to be exact), trying to find another train headed to our destination. We'd find one only to discover that it too, was cancelled!

We finally found one, and about 2 hours later were back "on track".

After arriving in Riomaggiore, (one of the "5 lands"), we looked for the elevator. I had heard that the elevator headed up the mountain right to our hotel, but it was hit and miss. You guessed it, that day it was "miss". Up we walked, rolling luggage up steep hills and then 3 flights of stairs. I couldn't breathe by the time we reached the Sol Levante, but who cares, look at the view! The owner, Elisabeth was very friendly and the rooms were cozy and clean.

My main goal upon arrival was to find a great place to watch the sun set. We headed towards the village and up the hill and found a beautiful church with benches facing the ocean. Amazingly, it was quiet and crowd free!

The warm light lit up the village so beautifully, and I was inspired to paint it.

"Last Light"

(church of San Giovanni Battista)

Coming up next...our hike to Manorola.

Traveling with your oil (or acrylic) paints can seem daunting, but if you know how to do it it's really no big deal!

1. Be sure to print out a material safety data sheet and place these sheets in with paints so they will be visible....these can be found on the paint company's websites.

Click on each for example: Rembrandt Oils ; 

Winsor & Newton

Old Holland

2.  "Oil Paint" is a security buzz word (or any use of the word paint). Instead, refer to them as “artist colors made with vegetable oil. 

**I always tuck a little note into my paints that explains this.**

3. Keep your paints in a separate plastic bag in case they leak during the flight and pack them in your check-in suitcase. I usually put each tube in a separate zip-lock bag and then place them all together into a larger zip-lock.  It's even a good idea to unscrew the lid, place a piece of plastic wrap over the opening, and screw the lid back on. **DON"T carry the artist colors on board with you!!!

*Stick with the smaller tubes and leave the large ones at home.

4. Do not bring any solvents or thinners. These are not allowed on the plane.

(Most places will have access to purchasing these after arrival anyway.)

5. Pack all brushes and palette knives in the check-in baggage. (To keep brushes from getting damaged, place them in a canvas brush holder that rolls up.) Example:

6. If possible, pack all your supplies in a separate suitcase. If not, pack your supplies so they are on top of your other items in your luggage. This makes it easily accessible for a security check.

7.  Pack your empty pochade box and easel in either your carry on or check-in baggage.

8. Place your painting panels inside your Raymar carrying case and place in either carry on or check in.

9. paper towels will fit into luggage better if they are taken off the roll and folded compactly.

To see my video on how to pack oils for flying, click the image below.