Jo Garden Art reviews

29 Mar 22'

Debbie Wilkinson reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"What a fantastic experience, I can't recommend Jo enough! A truly wonderful day! Jo is a natural, patient teacher who offered advice throughout the day to ensure our finished sculptures looked fabulous. The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful, making it a lovely, relaxed atmosphere. ‘Harriet’ hare takes pride and place in the garden and has been admired by many, but I couldn’t have made such a good job without Jo’s guidance. I love being creative but have never done anything like this before and fell in love with it. I can’t wait to start on the kit I bought home with me. Thanks Jo x"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you so much Debbie. Harriet was lovely - and will I'm sure be a centre piece in your garden (along with your second!) for a long time to come. Enjoy making the kit and do not hesitate to come back to me if you have any questions. Jo x"

28 Mar 22'

Susan VANNER reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"25/26th March 22 What a fantastic 2 days I’ve had. The most wonderful setting for just doing your project with Jo’s sculpture’s dotted around the grounds, as if you needed more encouragement! Jo is so enthusiastic and encouraging, she is with you every step of the way. This is the second two day workshop I have done, the first being a leaping hare, he sits in my garden quite happily but now this time I’ve done ‘The Lady’ she is a metre high and I’m so proud of her. It was a lovely group of 4 of us all doing different things and Jo was at our side every step of the way, what more could you want! WILL be coming again. Thank you so much xx"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Susan ? It was wonderful having you back in the studio again. 'The Lady' evolved over the two days from a piece of angle iron into a sassy woman. You made everything from the curvaceous body through to the hat and garments finished in bronze and brilliant blue. Fabulous! Now what will be next ...... ? Jo x"

26 Mar 22'

Carol reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"I have just returned home from the most fabulous 2 day sculpture course with Jo in very sunny Suffolk. Through various emails before the course I just knew that I was dealing with the most lovely knowledgeable professional and I wasn’t wrong. Jo oozes enthusiasm and it is infectious. I ambitiously chose an intertwining couple sculpture, as usual doing a marathon before I could walk - BUT with Jo’s patience and guidance it is finished and will be proudly displayed in my garden. Thank you to Andy, Jo’s husband, for providing his welding skills and tea skills. This course was incredible. I met some lovely talented people and I am looking forward to my next project. I travelled from London and it was well worth it. (Stayed in the Premier Inn in Bury St Edmunds town ) Thank you so much Jo, I loved every minute!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you so much for this lovely review Carol ?. You embraced the challenge of your complex sculpture and created a piece that can be displayed in a range of poses - well done! So glad you are thinking of more projects. Do not hesitate to make contact if you need to chat about any aspect. Lovely to meet your partner and pleased he enjoyed his exploration of the lovely places in and around Bury St Edmunds. Jo x"

11 Mar 22'

Andy Lawrence reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"Had a lovely day making my very wonky looking hare (down to me, not Jo). Incredibly well organised. All materials were pre-measured and pre-cut which really helped the day run smoothly. I wasn't sure what to expect but I had a great day and it has left me feeling inspired to do more. Even though I am a "materials nerd" I discovered new products which I hope to use in my own work as a puppeteer. Jo was an extremely welcoming, kind and encouraging teacher and I would highly recommend anyone to go on this course. Added bonus were her two lovely dogs!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"??? I loved your wonky crazy hare Andy! Thank you so much for your heart warming comments and hope you find the new material ideas useful for your fabulous puppets. Jo x"

8 Mar 22'

Fay Mathers reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"Jo hosted a brilliant workshop in her studio at the weekend. I actually made a hare sculpture that I am proud of and had never made anything like this before. I can’t wait to go to another one!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"You made a wonderful hare Fay - I believe we thought he was a bit of a renegade ?. Remarkable how the sculptures develop characters as the day progresses. Glad you enjoyed the experience. Jo x"

8 Mar 22'

Lynne reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"I just want to say what a fantastic day the hare sculpting was, truly enjoyable and inspirational . As someone who has previously struggled with creative arts and crafts I was expecting to be a bit out of my comfort zone,fortunately I was completely proved wrong . Jo was an amazing tutor always on hand for help, advice and encouragement and the atmosphere in the studio peaceful and supportive. I am very proud of my sculpture which is now in pride of place and I cant wait to show it off to visitors or anyone I can drag off the street. I would definitely recommend the day to anyone and I will remember the experience for a long time and continue to smile."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Lynne - I love the 'drag anyone off the street' comment ?. Will watch out for newspaper headlines! You made a lovely sculpture - well done, and so pleased you enjoyed the studio space. Jo x"

7 Mar 22'

Nicola Paxton reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"Thank you so much Jo for a wonderfully relaxing creative day in your studio yesterday. Although we managed to complete so much in the space of one day I never once felt hurried, and you were always on hand to offer advice and help when it was needed. You are a natural teacher and I loved the way you encouraged everyone to enjoy the creative process. I am so proud of my sculpture, especially after the surprised look on my daughter's face when she saw it and said 'actually that's pretty good!' I would recommend this course to everyone as in Jo's safe hands and welcoming studio your creativity will be encouraged - and in ways you may not expect it to!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Nicola ? - Love the comment about your daughter's surprised response ?. We all have creativity hidden inside us. So pleased you enjoyed your day. Jo x"

7 Mar 22'

Rachel reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"I had a really wonderful day yesterday creating my hare. The workshop took place in truly lovely surroundings and Jo was very welcoming. She is a natural teacher; making sure that everyone was comfortable at every stage, giving gentle encouragement and words of advice, or practical assistance if it was needed. I really did have so much fun learning a completely new skill and I am utterly besotted with with a few pieces of twisted wire that developed into the most characterful hare right in front of my eyes. I would absolutely recommend this workshop to others and can definitely see myself returning! Thank you so much Jo."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Rachel! I'm always amazed at how individual each sculpture ends up, even though you start with the same 'twisted wire' ?. Excellent work ? Jo x"

6 Mar 22'

Diane Gibbons reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"Had a fantastic day making my hare - watching it transform from wire to foil to plaster and then the paint finish all under the helpful calm tuition of Jo - thank you Jo for making me feel welcome and for your patience 'Hartley' Hare is in place in the garden already"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Diane - so glad Hartley is in his new home ?. It's always interesting to see how everyone ends up with totally different sculptures even though they start with the same wire armature! Really happy you enjoyed the experience. Jo x"

6 Mar 22'

Carol King reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"A brilliant day. I attended Jo's workshop with two friends and we all enjoyed ourselves immensely. Being a complete novice I had no idea what I was doing, but Jo guided us through every step to produce a wonderful garden ornament by the end of the day. Jo is a great tutor and her workshop is a very relaxing place to spend a few hours being creative! Plus there was an endless supply of coffee and biscuits! Thank you Jo for a lovely day."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"My pleasure Carol ? Lovely to see you and your friends sharing some craft time together. Your hare sculptures were gorgeous. Jo xx"

5 Mar 22'

Sharon Wilding reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"What a fabulous day. Great welcome and very relaxed in beautiful surroundings. Course took place in Jo's Garden studio. It was well equipped, beautifully organised with good products. Her tuition was fun, informative and easy to follow with plenty of guidance to obtain the great results we had at the end. We were all so pleased with our hares and who knew we were so talented! Thank you Jo for a lovely day... It was just what I needed. ☺️"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Sharon ?. It was great to restart the workshops after a few months absence. I loved your more chunky hare and hope the dark copper finish verdigris is developing nicely. Jo xxx"

15 Jan 22'

Leigh Pilsworth reviewed: Bronze Clay Sculpture Kit: Sleeping Cat

"I bought this kit last year as a treat to myself. I loved the design and wanted to make my own. I have just got round it it last weekend and the instructions are very clear, I watched the video and followed that along to make my own sleeping cat. Thoroughly enjoyed the whole crafting experience and very pleased with my own sleeping cat sculpture."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Dear Leigh - thank you so much for taking the time to write a review ?. Really pleased you enjoyed making your sleeping cat and found the instructions clear. Thank you again, Jo x"

12 Jan 22'

Linda Parker reviewed: Special purchase of Large Hare Sculpture Kit with Turntable - bespoke purchase as agreed with Jo Garden

"Jo was so helpful and friendly when we spoke on the phone. The kit arrived at the time I requested. It was so well thought out and the instruction video was very easy to follow. The large hare was great fun to make, I did it over several days. I was delighted with the end result, and Arthur now lives in our sitting room. ( I couldn’t bear to put him outside) Would recommend Jo’s kit to anyone. Thank you"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you for taking the time to write a review Linda ?. I'm so happy you enjoyed the experience of making your large hare - and that Arthur is now part of the family! Perhaps he can enjoy the outside in the Spring and Summer ?. Jo x"

22 Dec 21'

Leri Ballard reviewed: Bronze Hare Kit using air-drying clay - including on-line video with Jo Garden Art

"Received this as a gift last year. The kit contained literally everything needed (except water!) instructions were very clear. Managed to create an end result I am really happy with ? Would highly recommend 10/10"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Leri! And thank you for emailing me your fabulous photo's ?. I'm so glad you enjoyed the kit and now have a little sculpture to make you smile. Jo x"

2 Dec 21'

Paula reviewed: Large human sculpture Kit (50cm)

"Really enjoyed making my abstract lady ?. Have never tried anything like this before, but Jo's video and printed instructions gave me enough guidance to make my very first piece of sculpture! 'Serene Lady' sits on my window sill and makes me smile whenever I look at her. Great kit with everything you need included. 5 stars!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Paula! Really pleased you ventured into the world of sculpture and achieved a piece that makes you smile ;-) Totally what my kits are about! Jo x"

9 Nov 21'

Alison reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"Came along with my 19 year old daughter as a gift from my husband for my birthday and we really enjoyed our day with Jo. Jo is so relaxed and easy to get on with, so enthusiastic and very organised. She does not sit down all day! The day is well paced and Jo makes sure everyone understands each step and offers her advice and help along the way. As complete novices we were amazed with the end result. Our leaping and moon-gazing hares have been receiving many compliments. Can totally recommend this craft course , the perfect day out. Thanks again Jo."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Alison! Really pleased you both enjoyed your day together. Family creative time together is a privilege to facilitate. My legs always ache at the end of a workshop day - but nothing a deep bath and cold glass of wine cannot resolve ;-) Jo x"

8 Nov 21'

Jax Melling reviewed: Large Outdoor Plaster Hare sculpture kit

"I haven’t attempted to make the hare sculpture yet as it is a Christmas gift for a friend but it looks great and the ordering and delivery process were easy, efficient and fuss free. I will update once my friend gives me feedback on how it went for her. Thanks x"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Jax ;-) I hope your friend really enjoys making her large hare and thank you for choosing my kit as your present to her. Jo x"

5 Nov 21'

Trudi reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"An excellent 2-day course in every way. From the relaxed intro, with a cuppa in hand, to the tuition and gentle guidance throughout - all had been given impeccable thought and consideration. This was the second course I’ve attended and have been more than delighted with both. If you have never attempted sculpture, or are indeed a seasoned sculptor, there is something for everyone. Jo and Andy are delightful and so approachable, absolutely nothing is too much trouble. Copious tea/coffee, chocolate or bananas for when concentration is flagging... I can’t think of anything that’s been overlooked. I would highly recommend this as a wonderfully creative Christmas gift. Thank you, Jo and Andy, looking forward to seeing you both again very soon ?"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Trudi! Your wonderful Crane was a joy to watch developing over the two days. The addition of real iron rust over the wings was a lovely touch. What will you come up with next?! Jo x"

29 Oct 21'

Jackie Strohm reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"Best 2days ever .i loved it .. Nice small group plenty of time for everyone .generous with supplis and all that u needed was at hand ...i dont like holidaying alone and this year i found the perfect break that was better than any holiday .returned home a relaxed and happy person. Thanks so much .love my hare and see u next year"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"What a lovely review - thank you Jackie ;-) Looking forward to seeing you back in the studio Jo xx"

25 Oct 21'

Ruth Sparks reviewed: Large human sculpture Kit (50cm)

"This is going to be a Christmas gift The delivery was prompt and kept updated Like the fact there is a YouTube video to follow of how yo make the model I feel excellent value for money with all the goodies to make the sculptor"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you for taking the time to post this review Ruth ;-) When I create the kits, one of the pleasures is coming up with the contents to ensure someone can get straight on with making the sculpture, rather than search around for equipment and materials! I do hope the recipient of your gift has immense fun making their human sculpture. Jo x"

17 Oct 21'

Sally Sparrow reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"Just finished my third workshop with Jo and tremendous help and support from Andy. This time created 3 ladies to stand outside. Wonderful 2 days, learnt more new technics and am thrilled with results. Many thanks and will see you again."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Sally! Really enjoyed seeing you back in the studio and your three gorgeous ladies are still there gradually drying out. My sister who lives abroad 'face timed' today and I showed them to her - she loved them and asked me to do a remote workshop via zoom so she can create similar sculptures! They will look amazing on the tree stump you have in your garden. What will you think of next ...... ! Jo x"

17 Oct 21'

Angie Weston reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"What a wonderful way to spend two days! Having recently completed my 'leaping hare' under Jo's expert tuition, I can highly recommend this course to anyone thinking of having a go at this type of sculpting. Jo is such a professional, patient and fun tutor that I felt at home within minutes of arriving, despite being a complete novice. Andy, Jo's husband was the welder for our pre-prepared armatures, so together they make a great team. I was amazed that after just two days, I could produce something so beautiful and which has been much admired by friends and family. Just looking at him (definitely a 'him') makes me smile. Thank you Jo, I will be back next year!"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Angie! Andy's armatures are a piece of art in themselves ;-) So glad you felt at ease - I appreciate how out of depth people must feel when first arriving. I just love how the hares in particular evolve personalities and so happy he makes you smile! Jo x"

17 Oct 21'

Caroline Lovett reviewed: Sculpture workshop two days with Jo Garden Art in beautiful rural Norfolk/Suffolk border setting

"I booked Jo’s workshop after visiting a Rodin exhibition and being inspired to try sculpture. Jo’s friendly approach and professional tutoring made this experience so accessible and enjoyable that I booked another workshop shortly afterwards. The setting for the course is beautiful, Jo and Andy are super helpful and welcoming. The outcome from both 2-day courses was magical: just like my first sculpture which I’ve called magic man. Would give this course a 10/10 ?? and highly recommend it to anyone."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you so much Caroline - you are such a pleasure to work with and your interpretation of a 3D sculpture from your amazing Magic Man drawing was gorgeous. Looking forward to mulling over another project! Jo x"

11 Oct 21'

Harriet Baulu reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"An amazing day creating a leaping hare with Jo. Jo was incredibly knowledgeable and made you feel at ease learning this new skill. The day was paced well, where you felt you had time to work on each element before moving on. Jo makes you feel very welcome and at home within her beautiful studio and garden. I purchased some of Jo's kits to do at home and have subsequently made two more sculptures following her comprehensive guides and the skills learned on the day. Thank you Jo, it was totally worth travelling hundreds if miles to come and do this"

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Harriet! And thank you also for sending me those wonderful photos of your racing greyhound and sitting spaniel made from your bespoke kits bought at the workshop. They were really good ;-) I am constantly humbled by how far people travel for my workshops and really happy you felt it was worthwhile. Hope to see you again! Jo x"

10 Oct 21'

Sue Lambert reviewed: Hare Sculpture workshop with Jo Garden Art in beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk

"One of the best days out! I thought I wasn’t creative. How wrong was I! I have the most beautiful leaping hare as a result of the most wonderful day. Under Jo’s watchful eye, her easy manner and expert knowledge guided us through the process of creating what I can only describe as a masterpiece! I met lovely people and came away fulfilled and dare I say rather smug with my fantastic hare sculpture. Will definitely be doing another course. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Thank you Jo and my fellow course mates."

Jo Garden Art responded:

"Thank you Sue ;-) We all have masterpieces buried inside us! Well done on your amazing leaping hare and I'm so happy you enjoyed the day. Jo xx"