What our Students Say...

(Above) Acrylic painting by Helen Short

“ This art class is an incredible experience that exceeded all my expectations. Cheri is knowledgeable, patient, and approachable, making even the most complex techniques feel accessible. Whether you’re a beginner or have experience, the class is tailored to meet your skill level while encouraging creative exploration.

 

 

 

After Monet, Acrylic by Helen Short

The atmosphere is relaxed yet inspiring, with plenty of guidance and support. I appreciate the balance between learning technical skills and being given the freedom to experiment with different mediums and styles. Each lesson felt structured but left room for personal interpretation, which makes the whole experience deeply enjoyable.“

Helen

“I really enjoyed my series of art lessons at Wildwood Arts. Initially I felt unsure that I would have any real ability to produce artwork – but Cheri was a patient and encouraging teacher, taking the time to personalise my lessons by discussing my previous art experience, and giving thought and consideration as to what medias I wanted to try.

The classes were relaxed and fun, and I learnt so much in only four lessons, it really ignited my creative inspiration and made me keen to learn more! If you are interested in art and in need of a guiding light, I would definitely recommend Cheri’s art tuition.” Kat

(Above) Acrylic by Kat. Based on a pastel by Rebecca de Mendonca

Pastel by Rachel

Overall, this class has not only improved my artistic abilities but also gave me a deeper appreciation for the creative process. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to develop their skills or simply enjoy the therapeutic benefits of creating art in a supportive and enriching environment.

I was a beginner, but enjoyed drawing and wanted respite from caring responsibilities. Initially, I was nervous but was welcomed and the group was friendly and supportive.  I enjoy the classes, it is fun and friendships have developed. The small class size really helps. You can work on your on projects in your choice of medium at your own pace. Cheri gives advice on materials. As others are working on different projects and in different mediums you can pick up information from their questions and Cheri’s advice. The teaching is tailored to you and what you want. The depth and breadth of Cheri’s knowledge is invaluable. It has taught me so much, too much to write down, most of all it has taught me not to be afraid to have a go. 

It is not the cheapest class, but you don’t waste time or materials that are not relevant to you. The small class size means you get lots of input from Cheri.

I would recommend this class to others as it is good company, relaxed, supportive, individually tailored to you and there’s a great level of knowledge and experience from Cheri.

Rachel

I was a beginner. I practised a little with watercolour and pastels, but was a real novice. I wanted to learn techniques and explore different mediums in a non judgemental environment. I have always enjoyed art, however, it had been several years since I had given myself time, for myself. My emotional and mental health was not so good, so I started art lessons with Cheri.

I was slightly nervous initially, with new faces and not thinking my ability would be good enough. I had met Cheri before starting the class which helped as Cheri was friendly and warm and reassuring. The class was small, 4-5 people, this helped me as well, it felt less imposing.  I enjoy that it is time set aside for me to practise art, ‘me time’. Learning how to expand my use of watercolour. Using gouache with watercolour. Exploring other mediums by listening and observing other students’ work.

The camaraderie of the group is lovely. I look forward to the social aspect of the group, when I am not there I miss my art time, but also the group and Cheri. 

The size of the class is good as it enables more one to one time with Cheri. The atmosphere is relaxed, informal and friendly.  A larger studio/class would not be as informal or friendly. The social aspect of the class is present throughout, not just at a dedicated break time. Shared learning experiences enriches the class.

Cheri is open, patient and reliable. She has strong artistic skills and knowledge and is a successful professional artist as well. I find this inspirational. Cheri cleverly empowers me with my art. She observes and guides, yet leaves me feeling in control of what I am trying to do. 

 

(Above) Pastel by Theresa

“I have learned about composition, shape, colour,  negative space,  and the importance of observation. I have experimented with different watercolour effects and washes. A significant takeaway for me has been that trial and error is an important part of the process. Practise does almost make perfect. I continue to try to be patient with my time management to set time for me and art.

I think it is good value for money because I have an individualised lesson and the benefits of being in a small group. Excellent teaching in a comfortable environment .” Theresa.

What other students had to say..

“Cheri is a fantastic teacher and her relaxed Art Class has turned out to be a great place for me to improve my skills and try new things. I’m so glad I found the courage to go!” Kevin 

“Before doing a course with Cheri, my pictures were flat with no life, but now my pictures have life with light and shade, using pencils, charcoal and acrylic. She has taught me lots of different techniques and how to get different textures.” Richard 

“I started Cheri’s classes 10 weeks ago to improve my art in general. I have really enjoyed the classes, which are informal, and one-to-one based within a small group.”

I have attended many art classes over time in varied working environments, I find this one of the nicest as it is situated within an art gallery .

Cheri is a very talented artist and experienced teacher able to impart knowledge and give comprehensive tuition with clear demonstration.

There is always something new and valuable to learn and I have done just that at this class! I feel motivated and inspired to draw and paint at home between lessons.

I shall be returning for the next sessions after Easter.” Julie 

“From the very first lesson I felt very welcome and comfortable. I gained a lot of knowledge and enjoyed every class. I gained confidence back in myself and am now doing a degree in drawing and printmaking. Cheri is an excellent teacher and an amazing artist. She is an inspiration to me and others.” Kerri. 

“I have been a student of Cheri’s for two years. In this time, under her tuition, I have learnt many new skills; also she takes time to teach you the techniques. She has a very professional, but friendly approach in teaching of all her students. I have gained a lot of confidence in my artistic approach, which has also given me more confidence as a person.”

Parent

Well what can I say about this lovely lady, I was put in touch with her at the beginning of the year as my daughter was failing her GCSE Art…. She was able with only three months available to her to turn this round…taking time to explain the coursework requirements as well help with techniques that my daughter needed to learn… My daughter passed her GCSE art and secured a place in Plymouth College of Art …the things that were learnt by my daughter has not only helped her with her GCSE but is now being transferred to her work at art college where she secured a distinction for her first piece. I would recommend anybody to go to her classes absolutely fantastic, her expertise, patience and knowledge is second to none and she enabled my daughter to chase her dreams…Thank you Cheri

Cheryl Collick

Student feedback children

I enjoy Cheri’s lessons and have fun. I’ve learnt about drawing from life and observation skills and shading and used pastels. I recommend her classes to others because I like it and you learn a lot and it’s fun. She is funny, helpful, slightly mad but professional. The class is friendly and relaxed. It’s different to being at school because you’re not being judged. You get on with your art work and can spend time on it rather than being rushed and made to do it by the end of the lesson.

Bea aged 12

 The classes are really good. You learn a lot, like how to use different materials Cheri let’s us choose our subjects. She helps me make my art better. I’ve become more confident in my artwork. She’s an artist herself and understands. She gets points across easily and shows you how to do something. She explains things well. There’s music playing while we work and it’s relaxed. We have fun whilst we work. Time goes so quickly, but the time of the lesson is just right. You get more of her time than in school because the class size is small.

She brought me a dead bat in once so I could look at the wings under a magnifying glass. She’s always bringing stuff in. she’s kind and funny. She’s interested in what you are doing.

I hope I can keep on coming. I’ve been coming to lessons for a year now.

Amelia aged 12

Art Societies and school visits

Walkhampton Arts Society

A very sincere ‘thank you’ for the session at Walkhampton last Monday.

We all picked up some very useful tips from you.

I met Steve [our only gentleman present] on Saturday and he was so enthusiastic with your advice about concentrating on black and white.

Our thanks once again.

Anne Crozier

Fletewood School

Thank you very much for the great work you did with the children. It was good to see so many of them focused and thinking about their artwork. Thank you again. Rachel