Scottsdale Sons and Daughters of Italy

In a studio behind a church, six women gather to perform an act that is, at once, restorative, powerful, and illegal. They paint. Under the tutelage of Leonardo da Vinci, these six show talent and drive equal to that of any man, but in Renaissance Florence they must hide their skills, or risk the scorn of the city.

A commission to paint a fresco in Santo Spirito is announced and Florence’s countless artists each seek the fame and glory this lucrative job will provide. Viviana, a noblewoman freed from a terrible marriage and now free to pursue her artistic passions in secret, sees a potential life-altering opportunity for herself and her fellow female artists. The women first speak to Lorenzo de’ Medici himself, and finally, they submit a bid for the right to paint it. And they win.

But the church will not stand for women painting, especially not in a house of worship. The city is not ready to consider women in positions of power, and in Florence, artists wield tremendous power. Even the women themselves are hesitant; the attention they will bring upon themselves will disrupt their families, and could put them in physical danger.

All the while, Viviana grows closer to Sansone, her soldier lover, who is bringing her joy that she never knew with her deceased husband. And fellow-artist Isabetta has her own romantic life to distract her, sparked by Lorenzo himself. Power and passion collide in this sumptuous historical no268vel of shattering limitations, one brushstroke at a time.

Author: Donna Russo Martin

268 pages

Come out and join us for a family fun day. We will have lots of delicious food:

• Sausage & Pepper Subs
• Chicken
• Baked Beans
• Coleslaw
• Assorted Salads
• Desserts

We will also have plenty of fun games, such as Bocce, Bingo and Horseshoes. We will have water and coffee, but if you wish another drink, please feel free to bring your own. Alcoholic drinks will be permitted, but the park's rules do not allow glass bottles.

Lunch will be served at 12:30PM

$25 for OSDIA members
$30 for non-members and guests

Let's meet up to play some Bocce Ball. No worries if you have never played before, our group can teach you!

Please bring a small breakfast item, muffins, pastry, etc.

Coffee and juice will be provided.

The event is free for members and $5 for non members.