Italy is the quintessential home of art. Its cities of Florence and Rome are home to many of the world's finest collections. I have made two trips to Italy and immersed myself in its rich art heritage - as well as its foods, wines, and splendid countryside.

These paintings illustrate my second journey through the Italian landscape. Some views you may recognize with their iconic subjects - gondola in Venice, the Colosseum in Rome - but more often you will find intimate scenes. A pause along a hill path, a detail which speaks of an emotional connection rather than a reference photo.

This second trip to Italy has a very personal depth for me: not only was it made with my husband, but it is part of his heritage. It is the place from which he gets his family name - the name which I have taken as well. It is with this new association which I made new impressions and connections to this lovely ‘boot.’