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For quite some time now, ever since we began creating retreats together, we kept returning to one shared dream, to take our community to the magical island of Sicily. We were waiting for the right moment. And now, it has finally arrived. In May 2027, we invite you into a deeply immersive experience in one of the most inspiring places in the Mediterranean, where light, texture, history, and emotion naturally awaken your creative voice. This is not just a destination. It is a place that changes the way you see, feel, and create.

Sicily; A place that awakens creativity.

Join Us May 8-15th, 2027... Sicily is not just an island, it is a living canvas. For centuries, artists, writers, and creators have been drawn here, captivated by its layered history, dramatic landscapes, and that unmistakable golden light that seems to soften everything it touches. Ancient Greek temples, baroque towns, sun-washed stone, deep blue sea, wild nature, and the ever-present energy of Mount Etna, Sicily invites you to slow down, observe, and feel. This is the kind of place where inspiration doesn’t need to be searched for, it simply finds you.

Art, connection, and space to breathe. At the heart of this journey will be a deeply immersive workshop experience with Alex Castro Ferreira, a space to explore, experiment, and reconnect with your creative voice in a supportive and inspiring environment. But, as always, our retreats are about more than just the workshop. We will also dedicate time to truly experience Sicily, to wander, taste, discover, and absorb the essence of this extraordinary island. Think slow mornings, long dinners, textures, colors, conversations, and moments you will carry with you long after the journey ends.

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Our home in Sicily

We will stay in a beautiful private villa surrounded by citrus groves, just minutes from the sea. Each participant will have their own private SINGLE room — allowing for true rest, privacy, and creative space.
Slow mornings.
Long outdoor breakfasts.
Afternoons by the pool or in quiet corners creating.
This is not a hotel.
It is a sanctuary.

For Those Who Want More
For guests traveling from afar or wishing to go deeper,
an optional extended Sicily program will be available.
What Makes This Experience Special
Private single room for every guest
Intimate group (limited spots)
Strong artistic focus
Carefully curated, non-rushed program
Balance of creation, inspiration, and rest
This experience is designed not only as a retreat, but as a meaningful artistic journey — one that stays with
you long after you return home.

With love and excitement Robyn, Alex & Marina

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Workshop Details

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7 days / 6 nights at the beautiful private Vila, a place which will become your home for this trip.
Your private SINGLE room for complete comfort and personal space.
Daily breakfasts (6 total) to start your mornings slowly and beautifully
3 curated dinners with the group, designed for connection, inspiration, and shared experience
4 Lunches
3 immersive workshop days with Alex Castro Ferreira
Walking tour in Syracuse
Flea Market Visit
Boat excursion in Syracuse
Full day trip to Noto & Marzamemi (baroque architecture and seaside village)
Full day trip Ragusa Ibla & Modica (stunning baroque towns)
Service of the private guide and transfer during the days of excursions
Transfer from airport to our Villa 8 of may only.

International and domestic airfare, including any baggage fees
Transportation to and from the hotel upon departure
Travel and/or medical insurance (required)
Meals and beverages not specified in the program
Any personal expenses and shopping
City tax, which is to be paid by each guest upon check-in or check-out, depending on the hotel’s policy.

Note: We will be walking a lot. If walking becomes difficult for any reason, we can always arrange an Uber or taxi, but please note that this would be at an additional cost.

Please Note: We may adjust the program if needed due to changes in venue opening hours, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances affecting the itinerary. We always aim to ensure the best possible experience for our guests.

Held & Unbroken with Alex- In this intimate art retreat, we gather to create small, meaningful assemblages that honor both our strength and vulnerability. Working with beeswax,thread, rusty wire, fabric, papers and found elements we will craft tiny treasures, objects that hold memory, presence and care. This workshop is an invitation to slow down and work with our creative hands as a form of reflection. The materials, soft wax,rusty metal, fragile paper and fabric, mirror our own experience: resilient, imperfect and deeply alive.Each piece becomes a small altar, an offering to yourselves and those we love.

Supply List

Bring several inkjet papers back and forth with fotos of you and/or what matters in your life (will send a video to explain how to do it)
ephemera and vintage papers
scissor
glue stick
a stapler
needle and thread DMC
white fabric
a bag of beeswax + a flat brush
tiny little boxes(2 minimum)
2 or 3 tintypes
an awl

I will bring the epoxy sculpt, black and white gesso, griddles for beeswax,rusty wire, the leaves, the stencils, the lighter to burn.

Early Bird Price if you pay deposit before May 15

Choose your single room:
Standard Room 3720 Euro (we have only 8 rooms)
Superior Room 3910 Euro (we have only 8 rooms)

DBL Room - by request.

1st payment: Deposit is for single room: 1050 Euro and is non-refundable upon registration to reserve your spot.
2nd payment: Paid before October 1, 2026.

Regular Price if you pay deposit after May 15
Choose your single room:
Standard Room 3960 Euro
Superior Room 4140 Euro

Marina Grebennikova

Organizer of tours and events, wine guide in Portugal. For 10 years Marina has been introducing Portugal to guests from all over the World.

Marina boundless love for Portugal together with professional tourism education and sommelier diploma allow her to reveal this country in all its beauty, richness and consistency.

In 2008 Marina has created an event company Wildmemory which is Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), where she together with partners organizes European excursions and wine events and promotes ancillary practices.

Marina is always in touch and ready to help at any time with any question you may have during our event.

We are HERE to answer your questions!

Workshop Schedule

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Arrival & Welcome

Arrival at Catania Airport.
A comfortable transfer (approx. 1 hour) will take you through the sun-drenched Sicilian landscapes to our hotel.
After check-in, we gather for our first group meeting — a gentle beginning, where everyone gets to know each other and the journey ahead.

In the evening, we celebrate the start of our retreat with a warm welcome dinner — a moment to connect, relax, and immerse ourselves in the Italian atmosphere.

Syracuse: Treasures, History & Sea

After breakfast, we set off to explore the charming flea market in Syracuse — a place full of character, textures, and unexpected finds. This is our time for a little “treasure hunting” — discovering unique objects, vintage details, and inspiration for our creative journey.

We then slow down for a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant, enjoying authentic Sicilian flavors.

In the afternoon, we meet our guide for a beautiful walking tour through the historic center of Syracuse — a city where every street holds centuries of history. Ancient Greek roots, baroque elegance, and Mediterranean charm intertwine here in the most magical way.

And of course, Syracuse cannot be imagined without the sea. We board a small boat and glide along the coastline, admiring the city from the water — its golden stone glowing in the soft light.

Back at the hotel, we gather for a cozy show-and-tell session, sharing the treasures and inspirations we collected throughout the day.

Free dinner.

Noto & Marzamemi: Baroque Elegance & Seaside Charm

Breakfast at the hotel.
Today we explore two of Sicily’s most enchanting destinations.
We begin with Noto, often called the “capital of Sicilian Baroque.” This city feels like an open-air museum carved from warm golden stone. Its grand palaces, elegant balconies, and harmonious architecture create a sense of beauty that feels almost cinematic. Walking through Noto is like stepping into a dream — refined, luminous, and timeless.

From there, we continue to Marzamemi, a small seaside village filled with soul. Once a traditional fishing village, today it is one of the most atmospheric places on the island. Narrow streets, sun-bleached houses, little piazzas, and the scent of the sea create a feeling of effortless Mediterranean life.

Here, time slows down. You can wander, sit by the water, enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine, and simply absorb the beauty around you.

Ragusa Ibla & Modica: Sicily at Its Most Poetic

Breakfast at the hotel.
Today we discover two of the most stunning baroque towns in Sicily.

Ragusa Ibla is pure poetry. Perched on a hill, this old town unfolds like a labyrinth of narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and breathtaking viewpoints. Every turn reveals something magical — ornate churches, quiet corners, and views that stretch endlessly across the Sicilian landscape. It feels intimate, romantic, and deeply authentic.

We then continue to Modica, a town known not only for its beauty but also for its unique tradition of chocolate-making, dating back to ancient times. Modica climbs up the hills in layers of golden buildings, creating a dramatic and unforgettable silhouette. Walking here is an experience of contrasts — rich history, artisanal culture, and warm local life.

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Held & Unbroken

Sicily | May 8-15th, 2027

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*This workshop is not refundable*

You may transfer this workshop to another person if you can't attend. If there is a waitlist we will connect you with the next person on the list. Once transferred or sold, your reserved spot will be removed. If we cancel this workshop you will be refunded.

Registration is Open- Click to pay your deposit to reserve your spot.

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What people are saying

Some gathered voices on taking one of Alex's courses or workshops!

Dear Alex For the second time only in my life, I have truly felt HOME in my heart while in a new place away from my own family. There is no Portugal for me without you. With all my love and light.

D Artist

I’m so delighted and inspired by your lessons and techniques. Love this class and the big concept of LOST + FOUND TREASURES. You are a most excellent teacher.

Susan Artist

I have learned so much with this course (and will never look at a rusty item quite the same) A big thank you to you Alex for stretching my imagination and teach me the art of mixed media. I have thoroughly enjoyed it.

Andrea Artist

I’m not new with Art Journals and know a lot of technics but your course is really an enrichment to me and for my work. New for me is the resin paper and dying with black beans. Your course is awesome. Also the assemblage ideas are so great.Thanks Alex so much for this wonderful and generous course for us.

Petra Artist

My four treasures in honor of my beloved ones. Alex’s workshop opened up a whole new world for me and gave me a chance to deal with my grief. THANK YOU dear Alex. From the bottom of my heart.

Anne Artist

I think your workshop is amazing. Your theme of using memorabilia from our family members is brilliant.

Cecile Artist

This is the first project that had me completely focused on the process. I get to escape. What I love about it is the richness and meaning behind the content.I’m completely absorbed in the organic feel of the materials. LOVE IT! I’ll be looking forward to your next class.

Stephanie Artist

"After participating in Alex's wonderful online classes, I had the pleasure of meeting Alex in person at a retreat she organized in Portugal with a guest teacher artist. We were welcomed by Alex and her partner Marina with open arms to a gorgeous setting. All our needs were taken care of! The group bonded beautifully as we were offered a nice blend of artistic activities, touristic adventures and gastronomic delights. Alex and Marina connect with people quickly and naturally. Participating in their retreat is a treat you do not want to miss!

Darquise Artist

Not only very well organized but a super warm atmosphere thanks to Alex and Marina. Loved the hotel and location in Sintra; loved the food, loved the wine, loved the sightseeing and the bit of spare time that allowed me to explore a bit more on my own. I think the dosage of workshop and sightseeing was just perfect. I was extremely sensitive to Alex and Marina's enthusiasm, energy and generosity.

Nelly Artist

It truly was wonderful! Thank you, Alex, for bringing us all together and sharing your lovely smile and seemingly boundless energy. Thank you, too, for Marina. Her choices and plans made the entire experience even more unique and memorable.

Mary Artist

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for one of my most favorite retreats! You kept surprising us with treats and activities, you lavished on us and you and Marina just made us all feel so special and loved. Thank you doesn't seem like enough. I miss you already!

Joy Artist

When we were in Morocco I felt that you had the incredible ability to make each of us in the group feel special. It’s a rare gift you possess. Thank you for sharing it.

C.Sullivan Artist

Words cannot describe this experience of a lifetime. Alex and Marina were fabulous hosts. Incredibly generous with their time. Lots of laugh, inspiration, sightseeing, food,wine and visit to flea market.

C.Randall Artist

Jane and I made it home to Denver with no problems except missing all of you beautiful ladies. It was great fun to see several old friends and meet even more new ones. The workshop was wonderful - I love, love, love making books with Alex and Robyn. And it was so good to get to see Marina. Kisses to all of you.

Sandy Artist

The retreat in Miami more than met my expectations! GREAT experience and great people. It filled my soul! Learned so much from both Alex and Robyn and I am enjoying putting those lessons into my work in my studio at home. Much love…

Sherry Artist

I learned a tremendous amount of new skills at the workshop and appreciated the generosity of you, Robin and Alex. It was my first time working with Alex and found her to be a wonderful and compassionate teacher - with a great sense of humor! I have followed Robyn on the internet for several years and still I learned several new ways to make art from her. I loved the book structure that she taught,. I look forward to finishing my book with pictures and mementoes of my grandparents so that I can pass it on to my daughter who never knew them. I like to make art that has an impact and I can't begin to tell you how meaningful it will be to share it with my children.

Claire Artist

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Orly Avineri is coming to PORTO - with a 4 days workshop called SWEET & TENDER LITTLE THINGS | An Alternative Book Making Experience. Marina and I feel both grateful and blessed as Orly had decided to give workshops only in the States and after her successful retreat in Lisbon last march, Orly decided to come back to Portugal. Telling you that we are excited is an understatement as Orly is one of the most inspiring and talented artist in our mixed media world, she is one of those free and generous mind that you want to meet once in your life and now we are lucky to call her a friend.

You are invited for a NINE DAYS ART + TRAVEL RETREAT WITH ORLY AVINERI. We have curated a very special week and hope that you will go home with “Saudades”, a Portuguese word meaning a longing to come back soon. Our journey will start with a welcome drink and dinner so we get to know each others then on Saturday we will discovering Invicta as Porto is called and will continue with us creating and exploring SWEET & TENDER LITTLE THINGS | An Alternative Book Making Experience for 4 days with ORLY.

Our Retreat will be held in Menina Colina Guesthouse, a house that is over 170 years old next to the city centre, old town and the galleries around rua Miguel Bombarda. Our workshop will be held in the historical music room of the Menina Colina Guesthouse. This ancient House was completely renovated with exquisite taste in 2017. All the historical beauty of the murals, gardens, and the architecture will surround us. Limited availability of 8 SINGLE ROOMS and 4 DOUBLE ROOMS (have a roomate) where you can fully relax and appreciate our creative week. Please note that this hotel does not have an elevator.

You will fall in love with Porto and his people called "the tripeiros" as they are authentic generous and welcoming.

Our inner child will be excited to attend a custard Pastel de nata workshop, going to a fisherman village called Afurada, taking a Douro river trip on the Rabelo famous boats, listening to traditional fado, wandering in the old city with his unique charm and good vibes, visiting the best Wine Port cellar… Our goal is for you to experience the best of Porto, to bring home your very personal and unique creation made with Orly and to nourish your body soul and mind.

This is Your retreat where you will have time both for yourself and to gather, connect, share laugh with other creatives souls. You Deserve The Best!

Welcome to my Father António Rui Fonseca e Castro Ferreira hometown!

warm hugs, alex

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Workshop Details

Workshop Schedule

Held & Unbroken

What people are saying

warm hugs, alex

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