Head to Amalfi For Creative Inspiration

If you’d like inspiration to be more productive in your art, whatever it may be, why not book some time in Amalfi? Villas in the area are unbelievably rich in the different elements that are guaranteed to inspire artists of all kinds. Richard Wagner finished one of his operas cloistered in one of the convents-turned-hotels here, and Hendrik Ibsen finished a play there. An untold number of painters and photographers continue to visit and be inspired by this breathtakingly beautiful area. Why not become one of them?

When it comes to art and inspiration, nothing beats Italy: many painters, musicians and writers from the past, present and future can attest to that! Still, this region has a charm all its own. Find out just what you’ll find around those Amalfi villas that may help inspire you on your artistic holidays.

The Light

As any artist will tell you, it’s all about the light - and that’s what you’ll find plenty of along the coast of Amalfi. Villas in the area are bathed in the kind of light that has inspired artists working in many different media throughout the ages. The painters of the past, both ancient and recent; the photographers through the years; filmmakers, both artistic and commercial; and even playwrights, novelists, musicians and actors. So many have begun and completed work here.

Many have waxed lyrical about the Tuscan sun, but less known (except to the insiders) is the magical sunlight that kisses the coastline of Amalfi. Villas on the cliff sides, for instance, bask in the cool yet bright sunlight directly from above, and reflected from the turquoise waters below – it’s truly the kind of light that inspires.

The Surroundings

Enough about the light, what about the views? Scenic panoramas of nature’s glory framing man-made artistry are what you’ll find in abundance here. Homes painstakingly carved out of cliffs, stark white against grey and bright electric blues; dramatic gorges and gentle rolling hills; Byzantine and Baroque architecture and narrow cobbled walks through charming villages – it’s the stuff of dreams come true.

The Materials

Arguably the best paper in the world is found here. Local factories produce what’s known as bambagina, a lush, thick handmade paper that’s been said to "evoke a whole world to the artist who is sensitive to the suggestion of these places" - according to artist Giuseppe Leone. Imagine setting a well-inked pen to such pages, or laying down the rich colours for a painting; who knows what one could do with the right paper in the right setting? Cartiera Amatruda is perhaps the most famous paper, having been made in an old paper mill the same way since the 15th century – their notebooks and loose papers are very sought after.

Tastes to Sustain

What’s an artistic holiday without wonderful food and drink? Cafes and restaurants along the coastline are never short of the famous limoncello liqueur! Made from local lemons known as sfusato amalfino, it’s the best accompaniment to the wonderful flavours and tastes of Italian cuisine abundant in the area.

Looking for your perfect home away from home in Italy? Mark Slaviero is a Director of Holiday Homes in Italy, a company specialising in finding the holiday home, villa or apartment of your dreams. For the ideal Amalfi villas and accommodation in Tuscany, Sicily, the Italian Lakes, ski resorts and more, we offer the best in every region.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.