The purpose of Casa d’Arte is to offer cosy and accessible accommodation to international artists seeking a space to create, connect, and take part in a cultural exchange of ideas and inspiration in Lake Como. It is an artist-led, not-for-profit initiative focused on building community, supporting creative growth, and celebrating artistic diversity in one of the world’s most iconic and beautiful regions.

Our purpose is to foster creative freedom, build meaningful connections, and encourage artistic growth — all without the pressure or rigid structure of a traditional artist residency. Whether you're refining your practice, starting something new, or simply seeking a change of scenery, Casa d'Arte offers the time, space, and community to support your journey.

Casa d’Arte welcomes professional artists — and those on the cusp of becoming professional — from anywhere in the world (visa permitting). Gallerists and curators are also more than welcome to join.

There are no rigid requirements or formal application process. If you’re an artist eager to create, connect, and draw inspiration from the atmosphere of Lake Como, you’re welcome here. Just reach out first, so we can make sure it’s the right fit on both sides.

We host artists working across a wide range of disciplines: painting, sculpture, photography, digital media, illustration, poetry, and beyond. Whether you’re emerging, mid-career, or established, Casa d’Arte offers an affordable, low-pressure environment to focus, recharge, and grow your practice.

Casa d’Arte offers artists affordable accommodation in a shared villa overlooking Lake Como. Rates are significantly lower than typical high-season prices in the area. Pricing depends on the room and length of stay, with discounts available for longer bookings (minimum stay: 14 days). Each room is en suite — see the gallery for photos. All we ask is that you message us first, so we can make sure it’s a good fit for everyone.

Current rates of accommodation are in the calendar. Please look at the availability for specific dates. There are no application fees.

Artists are free to use the space as they wish, with no pressure to produce or exhibit. Exhibition opportunities are available for those interested, with a fee of €95 per metre of wall space at Torre delle Arti, Bellagio.

Travel expenses, meals, and art supplies are not included and will be covered by each artist.

No, Casa d’Arte is not a formal or institutionally backed residency. It’s an independent, artist-led, non-profit, initiative founded by Sandra Lattuca to offer a more relaxed, flexible, and authentic alternative to traditional residency models.

It’s for artists who value the experience over the formal framework of an official residency. Exhibition opportunities are still available for those that are interested.

Staying at Casa d’Arte offers artists a rare chance to live and work in one of the world’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions, without the pressure of a formal residency structure.

• Freedom to Create: Work entirely on your own terms—no set programme, no deadlines, no required outcomes.
  

• Inspiring Location: Nestled in Ossuccio, Lake Como, surrounded by historic villas, scenic trails, and panoramic views of the lake.
  

• Artistic Community: Connect with a mix of international artists—both emerging and established—in an open, supportive environment.
  

• Affordable Access: Enjoy accommodation and studio space at a fraction of the usual cost of high-season travel or formal residencies.
  

• Exhibition Opportunities: We've just secured space at Torre della Arti. Please see more info under exhibition.
  

• Authentic Living: Casa d’Arte is independent and artist-led, real art experience in Italy.

Normally, accommodation in this area would cost around €120 per night in season —but artists at Casa d’Arte pay just €50 per night.

That’s more than 50% off the usual rate for a beautiful room in Lake Como, plus access to a shared kitchen, dedicated art space, and an inspiring creative environment with the opportunity to exhibit at a world renowned venue.

We’ll mostly be eating out during the days and evenings—Lake Como has too many delicious spots to resist! That said, there’s a shared kitchen available for light cooking and casual meals. Every now and then, we like to cook together and share a glass of wine—it’s completely informal, relaxed, and up to you.

Yes, artists staying at Casa d’Arte have access to a shared creative area designed for focus and flexibility. While it’s not a formal studio, it’s a quiet and comfortable space where you can set up and work throughout your stay.

Depending on how things go, we also plan to include easels in the rooms along with a small workstation, so you can enjoy a private space to paint from your room or balcony, if you prefer.

1. Isola Comacina Lake Como’s only island, Isola Comacina, is rich in history and offers scenic beauty. Accessible by boat, the island features archaeological remains and a charming restaurant, Locanda dell'Isola Comacina.

2. Sacro Monte di Ossuccio This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises a series of chapels leading up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Soccorso. The path offers both spiritual significance and panoramic views of the lake. ​

3. Church of Santa Maria Maddalena Known for its distinctive bell tower, this Romanesque church is one of the most photographed landmarks on Lake Como. ​

4. Villa del Balbianello Located in nearby Lenno, this historic villa is renowned for its exquisite gardens and has been featured in several films. ​

5. Lido di Ossuccio A lakeside beach area perfect for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying the stunning views of Lake Como. ​

6. Hiking Trails The area boasts numerous trails that offer breath-taking vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains, suitable for all levels of hikers.​

7. Local Cuisine Ossuccio and its neighboring towns offer a variety of dining options where you can savor traditional Italian dishes and local specialties.​

Feel free to explore these attractions to fully experience the charm and beauty of Ossuccio and Lake Como.

We understand that some artists may require a visa to visit Italy, and we’re currently assisting several applicants in this regard. While Casa d’Arte is an informal, independent art commune—not a formal organisation or institution—we’re happy to provide a letter of invitation to support your visa application. Please note, however, that we cannot guarantee acceptance, as visa decisions are ultimately at the discretion of the embassy.

All visa expenses are the artists responsibility.

Thank you so much for reaching out, and for your support! We were in the middle of preparing for the season, so we weren’t exactly expecting such a flurry of interest this early, but we are thrilled by it. We’re grateful to Fatima and her team at Gallery Online for bringing such immense support to Casa d’Arte and this initiative.

We’ll be reviewing all the inquiries and requests, and we hope to get back to you shortly. We truly appreciate your patience during this busy time.

You will most likely hear back from Ryan who is Sandra's studio manager. He will answer in questions you may have.