Our Wall of Love
Read what a few of our talented students are saying about Stratford Studio Art Classes
"Sandy is an amazing art teacher and by far the most influential mentor I have had in my life. She is the perfect balance of being supportive of my work, while also pushing me to complete each piece to the best of my abilities. Without Sandy's guidance, I probably would not have applied to art school and I definitely would not have been able to create a strong portfolio to apply to colleges. Sandy supports each of her student's individual styles while also adding valuable words of criticism; She truly cares about all of her students (young and old), even going as far as baking treats for everyone's birthdays. After being accepted into art school at UCSB, I felt that Sandy taught me the fundamental skills I needed to thrive in college."
- Paige B. ( Google review)
"I started lessons with Sandy Jones in high school. This teaching style and small knit group took my art to a whole other level. I took quickly to Sandy's charcoal techniques and still use them today at Minneapolis college of art and design, 3 years later. She is a great instructor leading artist of all ages develop a good eye and help improve their work."
- Darby S. ( Google review)
"Stratford Studio is a wonderfully creative and supportive learning environment. Sandy is a talented artist who has taken her years of knowledge and skill and translated that into easy-to-understand steps for the beginning artist, as well as providing tips and trick to take an already skilled artist to the next level. She truly believes everyone can learn to draw and backs this up with plenty of support and encouragement. She makes sure that each student has plenty of individual attention and at a level that they need, while fostering a sense of community where students are motivated and inspired by one another. No matter your age or skill level Sandy will have you creating beautiful art in no time."
- Leah R. ( Google review)
"I've been going to Sandy's studio to learn the art of drawing and pastel for a few years now. I was a complete novice in art when I started. Sandy was very patient and dedicated and with her detail instructions I have completed some fulfilling and satisfying art projects. The studio is a fun and loving place to learn and do art work. It installs a sense of community and caring among the participants. We admire and give support to fellow students' art works and learn from each other. It gives you a chance to immerse in the fascinating world of art creation for a few hours a week. I think we sorely need this reprieve in these hectic and uncertain times."
- Alan S. ( Google Review)
"My daughter learned so much from Sandy at Stratford Studio and loved her weekly classes from 3rd grade (2009) until she left for college (2019). Many of the beautiful pieces she completed are framed and still hanging in our home, and she developed a real love of art.
The small classes, individual instruction, and real camaraderie among the students made this studio a haven for my daughter through middle and high school. I highly recommend it!"
- Kristin V. ( Google Review)
"My daughter took art classes for several years at Stratford Studios and we were extremely pleased with the experience. Sandy, the art teacher, created a nurturing environment that encouraged creativity and self-expression.
Sandy was able to take artists at different levels and improve their skills and confidence. She was patient and offered personalized guidance that helped each student grow in their artistic journey. The supportive community within the class made it a joy for my daughter to attend. This art class was not just about learning techniques, but about discovering and appreciating the joy of creating art."
- Lori M. ( Google review)
Both of my daughters took classes with Sandy for over a decade each and it was a wonderful experience. They thoroughly enjoy art and have developed amazing skills. Neither is pursuing art as a full time profession, but nevertheless they are able to pursue art as a pastime and use the skills developed in their schoolwork and jobs.
- Keith E. (Nextdoor review)