about us
Judith Greenaway (MA-Lib, BA Hons-English Literature & Classical Studies, Cambridge/RSA-ESL English Language) is the Principal Director of La Cultura d'Italia P/L, program developer and leader of the small group travel programs and customised/private itineraries. She is a writer with an extensive background in language, literature and cultural studies, with a special interest in medieval history, in particular, in the development of the "city states" in central Italy in context with the broader centres of power such as Rome and Florence. Having travelled widely throughout the world, she is now resident in Italy, living in the ancient centre of Orvieto. Together with her partner Victor, an esteemed Australian/international artist, she shares an abiding interest in all things Italian.
Kylie Greenaway (B Ed. Melbourne University) has been a registered teacher for 15 years, she has been a coordinator of Junior and Senior Schools, a state exam assessor and acting principal. She is currently on family leave, partly to be a mum to 2 small children, but also to develop further the educational tours within our company. Kylie is passionate about developing opportunities for young people that broaden their horizons, but also add real value to their educational experiences. She uses her enduring passion for culture and history along with a comprehensive understanding of educational practice to advise on programming for school groups and to liaise directly with the schools. Kylie is also a chief advisor for private programming options as well as the coordinator for all conference events and "incentive travel" options.
Lucianna Coppola is a highly experienced and practiced tour facilitator and works in partnership with Discovering Italy, facilitating programs for private groups and schools across an extensive range of cultural activities. Over many years Lucianna has worked in public relations for international tourist companies and foreign government agencies. She has been the coordinator of travel and study programs for foreigners in addition to being responsible for arranging full immersion courses in Italian and English, as well as being a sought after facilitator and host for international conferences and events. With these experiences, together with her love of language, travel, people and an enduring passion for her native Umbria, Lucianna brings great warmth and enthusiasm to Discovering Italy.
company profile
has been operating specialised art and cultural tours to Italy since 2001. It is our mission to provide travellers with an extensive variety of travel options from group travel to independent, fully guided itineraries and programs. We pride ourselves on offering a very high level of professional service and consultation, creating custom itineraries and accommodation packages for our clients. We have an extensive knowledge of the Italian Peninsula, its history and its culture, and are passionate about providing unique opportunities and experiences for our clients. We have offices in Umbria which enable us, personally, to ensure that our clients’ needs are met. We have recently begun offering these opportunities for Australian schools, and are very excited by the opportunity that this presents to us in being able to provide programs that cultivate a passion for travel in our young people as well as value adding to their education.
Victor Greenaway is a well-known and celebrated Australian artist and Fellow of the Australia Council for the Arts ( www.victorgreenaway.com ) and is currently living and working in Italy. He is not only a master of ceramics for which he is widely known, but also of drawing and painting. As an accomplished artist who also teaches with a passion and dedication, he leads small groups and individuals through the process of seeing through line and form, helping in the creation of a personal “Grand Tour” diary of drawings and sketches from life. Victor also conducts private classes in painting, both oil and acrylics as well as ceramics, with a special emphasis on design, throwing and turning, and glazing skills in both porcelain and terracotta.
Marino Moretti, more painter than potter, is a noted Italian ceramicist. His work reflects the rich cultural heritage in his skilful and modern interpretations of the great Italian maiolica artisans. Marino undertakes classes in maiolica painting and provides a wonderful insight into the history and mythology of the history and heritage of his speciality.
Classes guided by these 2 masters are a very special highlight of any program, relaxed but informative and a lot of fun. Drawing classes are conducted in amazing venues, depending on the program, in Rome, Florence and in Orvieto. In Rome and Florence we select venues that give a flavour of the city without being too overwhelming. In
Umbria we have the centre of the beautiful city of Orvieto as well as panoramic vantage points in the surrounding regions. Some selected painting classes are conducted in Victor’s painting studio in Orvieto. All ceramic courses are conducted in Marino's very special studio, a 9th century castle, perched on a hill top looking across the valley back to the city of Orvieto. Guided excursions and visits within the region are included. Personalised attention, supervision and critique are given throughout all classes.
Our Service Providers: The Discovering Italy team works in close collaboration with all of our Italian service providers who have been carefully chosen because of the specialist services and products they offer. In many
cases, the inclusions have been determined by us especially for our client base and our specific requirements, always with an eye to the highest standards and qualities. Our recommendations of and continuing collaboration with our unique collection of Italian service providers comes after many years of experience in knowing what works for Australian travellers.
education programs
Our education programs are tailored to the travelling needs of young students. We use the spectacular ancient city of Orvieto as a base, home to the breathtaking Signorelli frescoes housed in one of the most impressive cathedrals in the country. Programs include fully escorted excursions to the remarkable cities of Rome, the Vatican, Assisi, Florence, as well as the North and South of Italy with guided visits to the most important sites and museums. All cultural activities are presented in an informative, but relaxed and enjoyable environment. Our programs are designed to broaden the horizons of young people, open them to new experiences and to the possibilities of travel.
