Explore the World with Judy!

During an Artistic Artifacts Travel Creative Retreat with Judy Gula, enjoy a vacation filled with art classes, tours, wonderful cuisine and more! Explore exciting international destinations as you learn new creative techniques, witness handcrafted products being manufactured in behind the scene visits to local factories and studios, partake in private tours of local historic sites, museums — and so much more! Stay connected via our newsletter for the latest news on all special events!

• Registration is now open for our 4-day Creative Minds Summit on April 24–27, 2025. Our mixed media retreat will take place at our shop in Alexandria, VA, with Artistic Artifacts owner Judy Gula joined by Julie Booth, Kecia Deveney and Leighanna Light.
• Judy return to Ischia di Castro in Northern Italy on September 6–13, 2025
• Coming in early 2026, Judy returns to India with the Craft Culture & Textile Tour of Rajasthan

Italy Creative Retreat — Creating a Sense of Place in 2025

Judy will return to Ischia di Castro in Northern Italy on September 6–13, 2025 — mark your calendars and start planning! We have a dedicated studio space in town, fully stocked for your fiber and mixed media adventure. All art supplies are provided for your morning classes, and afternoons you’ll explore historical and art-filled towns and venues. Download an itinerary of the weeklong tour »

Artistic Artifacts works with Lewis Gautieri of Italian Cultural Tours to bring this one of a kind trip to you. “Space is filing up for the Artistic Artifacts Creative Retreat in September 6 to 13, 2025 with Judy Gula,” Lewis shares. “This trip of a lifetime has limited space and we would love to have you join us! Enjoy living like (and amongst) a local. Participate in local customs, food, wine other regional delights while enjoying your own apartment or BNB in the center of Ischia di Castro, a Medieval village from the 1500's. Participate in Judy's custom designed workshop, incorporating the local flavor into your project and enjoy guided tours of some of the most authentic Medieval villages on the planet. You will be well cared for from the beginning to the end, creating memories of a lifetime — several guests have enjoyed the trip more than once!” Contact Lewis with any questions. You may also call Italian Cultural Tours: US (202) 246-3570 or IT (+39) 340 869 3991.

Ischia di Castro, located approximately 55 miles (90 kilometers) northwest of Rome in the northernmost area of Lazio. Rich in history, it is strategically located to many fascinating cities, historic archaeological sites such as the ancient Etruscan city of Castro, and bodies of water. Lewis Gautieri offers you assistance and personalized attention and is happy to assist you with flight recommendations, customized tours, spouse activities, extended stay options and more.

Above, Sacro Bosco di Bomarzo (translates to Sacred Grove or Sacred Wood and is known as The Park of the Monsters), located near the town of the same name, Bomarzo, in the province of Viterbo. This is a popular tour during our Italian Creative Retreat!
       Panorama photograph by Shadow Fixing - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

February 13–27, 2026: Craft Culture & Textile Tour Of Rajasthan

In early 2026, join Judy as she returns to India with her Craft Culture & Textile Tour Of Rajasthan. Focusing on craft, culture, and textiles, journey through the rich history and traditions of Rajasthan, a beautiful state on India's northwestern side. You will visit ancient forts and palaces, learn about the intricate art of Rajasthani embroidery, and shop for traditional handicrafts. You will also have the opportunity to experience Rajasthani culture first-hand, by attending a folk music performance or a colorful local festival!

Arranged through Aahilya Holidays, you will enjoy the following — and more!

Highlights of this tour include

• Participate in textile and mixed media arts: a dabu block printing experience, tie-dye workshop and miniature painting session
• Learn about Pattu weaving, pottery, mirror work, carpet weaving, shawl weaving, and puppet making in rural villages of India
• Visit a spice shop and enjoy a tea tasting session
• Sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur, enjoying local transport: rickshaws, auto rickshaws, camels or camel carts
• Take a boat cruise at Lake Pichola in Udaipur

Visit Aahilya Holidays for a more information and to join Judy in this exciting opportunity!