My Italian home between the Alps and a turquoise river

When my friend and I bought an old farmhouse in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region , I knew it would be a place full of peace, nature and endless inspiration. This piece of Italy, hidden between green hills, vineyards and the majestic Alps , has become a haven for me, where I can create, dream and discover new colors, shapes and light .

Friuli-Venezia Giulia – the region where mountains and sea meet

Friuli-Venezia Giulia is located in the northeast of Italy and boasts a breathtaking landscape that stretches from the snow-capped Alps to the azure coast of the Adriatic Sea . This region is rich in vineyards, dense forests and picturesque historic villages that have preserved their authentic atmosphere.

In addition to its beautiful nature, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is also known for its gastronomy . San Daniele ham , delicious Friulano white wine and traditional cheeses such as Montasio are just some of the culinary treasures of the region. The local flavors combine Alpine and Mediterranean influences , making them unique and unforgettable.

Nature that enchants me every day

Near our house, the Natizone River winds its way , a turquoise treasure flowing from the Slovenian mountains . Its clear water reflects the changing sky, and when I open my window in the morning, I hear its gentle murmur, along with the sound of a small waterfall near the house. This peaceful rhythm of nature has become an integral part of my work.

In my paintings I try to capture the wild beauty of my surroundings – the changing light gliding over the slopes of vineyards, the soft shades of morning mist over a valley, or the dramatic silhouettes of mountains at sunset. I often paint abstract landscapes where colors merge into dynamic compositions and reflect my inner feelings and the atmosphere of a place .

The joy of life in the Italian countryside

Friuli Venezia Giulia is a place where life is lived slowly and enjoyed to the fullest. Family, friends, delicious food, wine and outdoor activities are part of everyday life. Weekends are perfect for cycling through vineyards, hiking in the mountains, kayaking on the river, skiing in the Italian Alps or simply for long evenings with a glass of wine overlooking endless fields and vineyards.

When our loved ones come here, we always find new places and experiences. Delicious local wines from neighboring vineyards, homemade cheeses and olives taste even better when enjoyed as the sun sets over the Alps.

The house we transform into our place on Earth

Renovating an old Italian house is an adventure , but also a beautiful process. Step by step we are bringing it back to life, preserving its original atmosphere and adding our energy to it. The garden with a view of the mountains is slowly turning into a place where I can imagine not only a studio, but also a real home one day.

Open-air studio

On warm days I paint outdoors , surrounded by the colors and scents of the countryside. When it's colder or raining, I move into the former stable , where I paint by the open window and soak up the energy of the countryside.

The abstract landscapes that emerge here are a combination of my feelings, impressions and the energy of the place. I mix the soft pastel tones of the morning mist with the rich hues of the golden vineyard , I play with the blue of the turquoise river and capture the wildness of natural forms .

The future between vineyards and mountains

Even though I don't have a family yet, I can imagine that this is where I would like to settle down one day. The Italian countryside, nature, art and the simplicity of life - all of this fulfills me and gives my work a new dimension.

My paintings capture the atmosphere of this place, its quiet magic, changing light and endless space to dream . Perhaps one of them will bring a piece of this beauty to your home .

Rocca Bernarda