A N Stuart

21/08/2025

Came across this newspaper cutting from 1995 or 6. We used to hold an annual Quilters gathering. So 30 years ago now.

11/05/2025

'Canterbury Plains #3' has been sold to a collector from Tauranga, New Zealand.
A textural collage inspired by the patchwork views of the Canterbury Plains when flying into Christchurch. It incorporates furrows and plough marks in the fertile land below and is constructed from hand-dyed silks, stamped cottons and linens.

17/11/2024



Ciao, Fellow Italophiles,

I'm happy to announce the sequel to Book One: "Creating a Life of Art in Italy" is finally here: 

Book Two: "Italy’s Lasting Legacy."

If you enjoyed my first book, (which has been revised) you’re in for a treat—Book Two dives deeper into the quiet simplicity of Italian culture and experiences that shaped my journey in Italy.

***

You'll find glimpses into the ups and downs of life as a studio artist and occasional challenges that come with creating a new life in a country that feels like it was meant for artists, dreamers, and anyone yearning to slow down and soak up calmness. Whether it's from the time-worn textures of the architecture, or from the markets brimming with fresh produce, to the old-world charm of cobblestone streets, I’ve aimed to capture the heart of Italy and, hopefully, a bit of its soul.

***
Creating a Life of Art in Italy
Italy’s Lasting Legacy."

15/11/2024

Book Two: "Italy’s Lasting Legacy"
This book is the sequel to Book One: "Creating a Life of Art in Italy"

It follows the style of my first book, a mix of memoir, practical guide and what you would term a “slow book.” In these pages, as well as in "Creating a Life of Art in Italy," I invite you to come with me to Italy – through my personal journals. We're taking the scenic route here, matching the unhurried tempo that makes Italian living so special. And just like life in Italy, we're not going to rush through it. I want you to feel like you're leafing through someone's journal, offering glimpses of adapting to a culture that is quite different to the one I left in New Zealand.

Another week or so and my new book will be launched. This is Book 2 and follows on from "Creating a Life of Art in Italy"

14/11/2024

I'm happy to announce the sequel to Book One: "Creating a Life of Art in Italy" is finally here:

Book Two: "Italy’s Lasting Legacy." https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DLMSGLN8

If you enjoyed my first book, (which has been revised) you’re in for a treat—Book Two dives deeper into the quiet simplicity of Italian culture and experiences that shaped my journey in Italy.

***

You'll find glimpses into the ups and downs of life as a studio artist and occasional challenges that come with creating a new life in a country that feels like it was meant for artists, dreamers, and anyone yearning to slow down and soak up calmness. Whether it's from the time-worn textures of the architecture, or from the markets brimming with fresh produce, to the old-world charm of cobblestone streets, I’ve aimed to capture the heart of Italy and, hopefully, a bit of its soul.

***

Both books have been such a joy to write! Well, that's what I should tell you, but actually, at times it's been a struggle and a slog. What I have learnt from this process is a new discipline and that's to stick at it!

It would've been so easy to throw in the towel, as I've been plagued with spelling mistakes, comma's and apostrophes'! You'd hardly think these small things could bring you down at the mere simple idea of telling your story from your journals - wrong! But, I pushed through - and I'm glad I did!

***

This book also shares a closer look at the creation of the Abruzzo School of Creative Art and Amore Italia Tours—a dream I never saw coming, but one that deepened my experience here, as I see our region through the eyes of our guests. And, of course, I’ve included tales from our travels in other parts of Italy, France, Australia and New Zealand. Think of it as your ticket to experience Italy’s wonders through stories, memories, and the occasional laugh.

For those of you who’ve been with me since Book One, I can’t wait for you to see what’s next. And if you’re new to my writing, welcome aboard—"Italy’s Lasting Legacy" is a blend of stories, insights, and a touch of practical wisdom, all wrapped up in the allure of Italy.

This book is for anyone drawn to a life of simplicity, creativity, and, of course, good food and great company. I hope "Italy’s Lasting Legacy" brings you as much joy reading it as I felt most of the time in the writing of it. (really, I did)

So grab a warm drink, settle in, and come along as we explore the beautiful rhythm of life in Italy.

***

Thank you to those who have supported me and given me encouragement— you know who you are and I love you for it.

I can’t wait to hear what you think of it.

Link: Book One: Creating a Life of Art in Italy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQ3YDBZ5/

Link: Book Two: Italy's Lasting Legacy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DLMSGLN8

Warmest Regards

A. N. Stuart

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P.S

At the moment both books are available on Amazon Kindle at $2.99 which will go up to $5.99 on the 14th December 2024

The paper backs are $19.99 which will go up to $24.99

Hard Cover price will stay the same.