Artists In Residence

Here, selected young artists (born in 1980 or later), primarily from Central Europe, have the opportunity to create art for one month in the spring at the Villa Tosa di Sotto studio in San Sanó. A maximum of three artists can stay at the villa at any one time, each receiving a grant of EUR 1,250, as well as access to the local studio and a vehicle. During their stay in Italy, the artists are assisted in their daily activities by permanent local staff. The studio and guest house are located next to an olive grove. If desired, artists can participate in various programs, such as grape or olive harvesting. In this way, artists become part of local life, and their works of art define the artistic spirit and image of the place. In return, we ask all participants to donate one of their works created there to the Foundation's art collection as a memento.

There is currently no call for applications for the Residency Program; participation is by invitation only.

The name of San Sano originates from the name of Christian martyr Ansanus, who was a member of the Roman Anicia family. San (meaning Saint) Ansano later became San Sano. It probably used to be a fortified settlement with a small tower and a church, which paid tithe to the Pope as early as 1276–77.

After centuries of wars, castles and forts were usually transformed into farming residencies where they started growing grapes between the native oakwood and chestnut grove.

Villifranchi’s 1773 account on Tuscan wine says the following on the home of the finest Chianti: “The Chianti region spreads across 30–40 miles, and the best wine is produced in Ama, Broglio, Castellina, San Sano and Cacchiano.”