Are artists farmers? Or is the farmer an artist?

At critical times of for the natural cycle Dentro La Terra and Casa Dell’Arciprete organize initiatives to explore the synergies between agricultural production and artistic creation through a deep dive in the olive harvest and olive oil production processes, as well as in grape harvest and wine making.

Inspired by the work of Lucius Junius Moderatus Columella, the programme takes place at important times for the olive oil production and wine making in Abruzzo, an area that is known for the quality of its extra virgin olive oil and wines.

The programme foresees a briefing on the olive or grape harvest and a visit to a small family-run winery or oil mill, direct participation of artists in the olive or grape harvest, a lecture of De Re Rustica and a one day workshop for participants to reflect on the experience through their own writing, paintings or other forms of artistic expression.

The process of picking olives involves setting nets under the trees, shaking branches by hand rakes and pneumatic rakes, filling crates and transporting them to the local press at the end of the day. Grape harvest involves collecting grapes and transport to the local winery where the pressing and fermentation takes place.

This immersive experience will help to sustain a centenarian food culture practice, learn about how to distinguish a good quality olive oil or wine and gain knowledge and awareness of the general food industry and market, and learn about the wealth of art and the history of Abruzzo.

Information on how to take part in this programme will be published on this website.