About Us

Founder Shannon Kenny was inspired to create Arte al Sole from a desire to share her love of art and history with her two young daughters. She could see the benefits of introducing kids to culture through their eyes and nurturing their natural creative spirits. Shannon received her Master’s Degree in Medieval & Renaissance History, and has worked as a writer, editor, and educator in the fields of history, social sciences, French & Italian languages, and travel for over 20 years. She operated an editorial services firm focusing on history, art, and social change, and authored Gold: A Cultural Encyclopedia (2011). Shannon then created Via Papera, the umbrella company of Arte al Sole, Italiakids.com, an online resource for families traveling to or in Italy, and Elaia Travel, a concierge travel agency. 

Gianny Trutmann

Arte al Sole Director Gianny Trutmann is a multicultural documentary filmmaker and passionate advocate for the arts as a channel for social change. His work has encompassed travel and social impact documentaries shedding light on local life and culture. Gianny loves the enduring moments Arte al Sole experiences create for families as they make international friends and discover new cultures. Gianny manages business operations for Arte al Sole, Italiakids, and Elaia Travel.

Bess Bredell

Our Program Coordinator Bess loves showing off the Eternal City in all its magnificence. After receiving her B.S. in Sociology from Loyola University of Chicago’s Campus in Rome, she never left! She taught English at Rome’s public  elementary schools, still working with kids 20 years on. As a mother raising bilinqual children, she makes learning fun thru hands-on activities. Bess supports Arte al Sole families from our Rome office, organizing private tours and summer camps for families coming in from round the world.

Bella Venable

Arts Curriculum Coordinator Bella studied Illustration at University of the Arts London, and has since pursued a career in arts education. Bella is the daughter of Arte al Sole founder Shannon Kenny. She spent the summers of her childhood as a student in the camps. She now brings her knowledge of this unique curriculum to her work managing the Italy private work shops and summer camp programs. In her own arts practice she enjoys printmaking and comic making. She is interested in surreal imagery as well as exploring the relationship between humans and animals. Have a look at Bella’s art portfolio here!

Visit our sister site Elaia Travel, a full-service travel agency dedicated to creating your dream itinerary in Italy and Europe.  We specialize in designing extraordinary itineraries that take you exactly where you dream of going.

Visit our sister site Italiakids.com, a complete resource guide offering a wealth of information for families living in and traveling to Italy.

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