The Phoenix Studio reviews

Sally Lloyd reviewed: The Drawing Circus comes to Towersey

"My daughter and I took part in the drawing circus for the first time this year and despite the searing heat it was the most amazing day! The atmosphere was friendly and welcoming, the other participants were friendly and there was an air of excitement and an artistic buzz. The models were professional and yet not intimidating. This was my daughter's first attempt at life drawing and she is now hooked. The master classes with Jake Spicer were really helpful. We came home with a pocket full of drawings and a desire to find a regular spot to be able to develop our skills. Looking forward to being able to participate in further workshops at the Phoenix studio."

Katie Smith reviewed: Freestyle stitching with Harriet Riddell

"Thank you for such an informative, hands-on free motion sewing course in the beautiful serene setting of Phoenix Studios in Oxfordshire. I was a complete novice and was made to feel relaxed and welcome, in spite of a personal lack of confidence. The course emphasised some drawing techniques to apply to your stitched piece. I liked the chance to experiment to music, to learn from each other and to have some individual help when needed. I learnt so much and was amazed at what could be done in such a short time. Harriet is a warm, kind teacher with a natural passion for her unique work which enthuses out of her. I thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and for me an extra treat to be a part of the whole Phoenix Studios experience. James Ort himself sat down and tried his hand at the stitching course which was a compliment in itself. Thank you for a wonderful weekend. It was a real privilege to attend."

Julie Mills reviewed: Freestyle stitching with Harriet Riddell

"Harriet is a lovely person and a good teacher. She provides guidance but ensures participants develop their own ideas. And her technique is fascinating and highly original. I loved the whole weekend. Phoenix Studios is a great learning space in a serene and rural location. James Ort (and his Mum) have created a wonderful learning space and having him participate in the class was a pleasure as well. I highly recommend both this venue and Harriet as a teacher. What a wonderful weekend it was!"

Rachel Smith reviewed: Freestyle stitching with Harriet Riddell

"I have been a fan of Harriet's since she embroidered my portrait as part of the affordable art fair in Bristol a few years back, and was fascinated by her technique. It was such a huge privilege to be able to learn from her at the Phoenix studio. Harriet's teaching method is fun and relaxed and I loved the way we began with drawing without looking and the free embroidery to music. James Ort the studio manager created a fabulous atmosphere of inclusivity, regardless of experience. This weekend has been my favourite of 2019 lovely people & a great learning experience ! Highly recommend this little Oxfordshire treasure."

Caroline Keyton reviewed: Clay life modelling weekend with Karin Ort

"What a fantastic course. I just loved it. Karin was a brilliant teacher, very helpful and patient! Never having done anything like this before, I was rather apprehensive but what a wonderful 2 days it turned out to be. It has inspired me to try more sculpting. I met some lovely people on the course too. I would not hesitate to recommend this course, and the Phoenix Studio in general. What a fabulous place - just wish I lived closer so I could attend more of their courses."

Elaine Bent reviewed: Clay life modelling weekend with Karin Ort

"My daughter persuaded me to sign up for this course and I loved it. Last time I did anything arty was at school which was a long time ago. So feeling a bit anxious I turned up to a lovely group and a great teacher. Karin is so patient and encouraging. After not knowing if I would be able to create something iI wanted to take home, I am now waiting on it coming out of the kiln with great anticipation. A great way of taking your mind of everything apart from the clay and model. More fun than a meditation weekend."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Thanks for the lovely review Elaine! You're right, sculpting is like meditation, only more fun! I am so glad you enjoyed your time here and we hope to see you again soon!"

Carol Adams reviewed: Clay life modelling weekend with Karin Ort

"What a superb course. Entire absorption - everything thought through and provided. Karin explained and guided us all through, making sure no one was missed out, perceiving our attempts, alongside us all the way. The model was perfect, a difficult pose was kept all the way. If you have not been before, go - you will not regret the life skill you have gained, the kind nurturing place and people. Indulge all of you as soon as you can."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Ahhh thanks Carol, what a lovely, lovely review! So glad you enjoyed it! See you on a Monday soon x"

Felicia reviewed: Clay life modelling weekend with Karin Ort

"Such an enjoyable weekend! I arrived, total beginner and completely intimidated by the prospect of a life modelling weekend, and was quickly put at ease and enabled to get on with it with advice and support when needed. I've come away feeling proud of what I have done and learnt and can't wait to come back for another course. Many thanks Karin!"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Such a lovely review, thanks Felicia! And I see you're coming back for clay portraiture in October too - how exciting! See you soon, Karin and James"

Sean Young reviewed: Clay portrait weekends with Karin Ort

"A very enjoyable weekend with excellent tuition in a very pleasant environment. The course is extremely good value and the major surprise is just how good a head you have created."

Sean Young reviewed: Clay portrait weekends with Karin Ort

"A very enjoyable weekend with excellent tuition in a very pleasant environment. The course is extremely good value and the major surprise is just how good a head you have created."

Sally reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"I absolutely loved this course from the moment I arrived. The studio is in a lovely setting. It's well laid out and very organised, in a quirky, relaxed fashion, which put me instantly at ease. It was warm and friendly and even the chickens wandering around made me feel right at home. The course itself was fabulous. James and Alison were amazing. They made it look effortless when in reality it isn't easy, but they were very attentive and were on hand to put us on the straight and narrow and I was amazed at the results, having never done anything like this before. It was quite intense, totally absorbing and a real tonic and I cannot wait to go back!"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Literally one of the best reviews ever. Thanks too for the lovely email as well. It was great to see your work and style evolve over the course x"

Natalie Bamford reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"I really enjoyed the course, it was so refreshing and therapeutic after spending so much of my time looking after my 2 children. I have done one or two short courses in the past but none like this one, I love the more free technique and this was the first time I'd actually ever seen a kiln! They're usually hidden and locked away so it was good to see especially as firing is quite an important part of the process."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Thanks for the lovely review Natalie! So glad you enjoyed your time here. You really got the technique! Can't wait to see them glazed!"

Daniel Wilson reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"A really great 2 days; a fun, reasonably simple technique shown in demos, with plenty of one-to-one support as required. The setting is lovely with an enviable studio, perfect for losing yourself into the process. I feel the course would be beneficial whether you're an experienced artist or a relative newbie, with little or no pressure and plenty of encouragement from excellent tutors James & Alison. The other 10 people on the course were also lovely and helped set the friendly, warm tone of the weekend. Many thanks, keep up the inspiring work!"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Ahhh thanks for the lovely review Dan. A big thanks and I am so glad that you enjoyed the course. Looking forward to seeing Kendrick Lemur glazed and finished!"

Alec Powell reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"Had a wonderful time over the last weekend! Thank God that James and Alison were there! Sooooo helpfull. Lots of nice people and a good rapport. Good luck in the future :-)"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Ahhh thanks for the lovely review Alec! Thanks to you and Val for your continued support! See you soon for glazing!"

Nic Hayward reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"What can I say? Yet another amazing course at the Phoenix. Adding to the outstanding ceramic animals and wirework courses, and the Drawing Circus, the Jake Spicer drawing weekend was yet another winner. Jake is a master, and has a very gentle but effective way of getting the best out of people, making a fine double act with James Ort. Learned lots, really enjoyed the company of like minded folk, as well as spending time with Jake, lovely model Bella, and James. Thank you."

Pam Sangster reviewed: Clay life modelling weekend with Karin Ort

"Just spent a Fab couple of days at the Phoenix studio which is a lovely purpose built facility in peaceful surroundings. Karin is an excellent tutor, very patient and knowledgeable with a good eye for detail. Highly recommended."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Thanks for the lovely review and for coming for yet another course with us Pam, sorry to have missed you this time. Hope you have a lovely Christmas! James x"

Caroline Fleming reviewed: Clay life modelling weekend with Karin Ort

"What a lovely weekend we have all had!! Karen's teaching was excellent, the studio was cheery and well organised and there were even home made flapjacks. It's a great opportunity to focus on something for several ours and feel great about the outcome whatever its like. Time whizzes by and the other students are always lovely. It's surprisingly relaxing. I would think that everyone who attended wanted to come back again. I would thoroughly recommend it."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Ahhh thanks for your lovely words Caroline and your continued loyalty to the studio! Have a great Christmas xx"

Sherry Hotchkin reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"What more can I add to all those glowing reviews - except to say they are all more than well deserved. What a hugely enjoyable weekend! Alas, I didn't produce my hoped for masterpiece - my fault for talking too much!! But I learned SO much - new techniques - lots of "tricks of the trade" and so many helpful tips which I shall find really useful for future projects. James's enthusiasm and good humour and Alison's gentle, constant encouragement make them an unbeatable team. This is one of the best courses I have ever attended. I cannot recommend it highly enough. 5* +++"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Wow, that was an epic review Sherry! I normally have to pay my students to give me such a good write up ;o) Thanks for coming and it was lovely to meet you. My Mum said it was great to see you too after all those years! x"

Caroline Blundell reviewed: Wire & mixed media sculpture courses with James Ort

"I was a bit daunted - as creating in wire felt out of my comfort zone - but, as ever, James encourages confidence and creativity, and everyone on our course - all novice to wire - produced splendid artwork to enjoy. I couldn't believe the results. It was an absorbing, fun way to spend 2 days with lovely people in a beautiful setting. This is my third course at the studio and I like it more and more. I would encourage anyone with a curious nature and creative soul to go and enjoy themselves there."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Ahhh thanks Caroline! You made a lovely 'cooo' and it was great to see you take to wire so well! As ever, thanks for your loyalty! x"

Liz Pow reviewed: Wire & mixed media sculpture courses with James Ort

"I would like to add my recommendation to the many that have already been posted I enjoyed a fantastic weekend arriving as a novice but leaving on a huge high having actually managed to.create a masterpiece (!) under James’ patient guidance! I was extremely impressed by his creativity and humour and the very efficient way he runs the studio and the speed he managed to start us all off. I can’t wait to make a return visit and am now inspired to greater achievements. How lucky I was to have found such a venue and cannot thank James enough."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Wow, thanks for the amazing review Liz, what lovely words! I am so glad that you enjoyed your time here! Send me a pic of the swallow in situ!"

helene coxhead reviewed: Wire & mixed media sculpture courses with James Ort

"Wire and mixed media Excellent course with James providing superb facilitator skills as well as direct tutoring when required. I already had some experience working with wire but learned a lot of handy hints and tips which will be extremely useful in my future work. Having said that the course was equally suitable for complete novices and the work they produced was impressive. In order to make best use of the 2 days we were directed to do some prep and that proved very worthwhile for anyone thinking of this course (and I heartily recommend it) this meant being able to focus immediately on their chosen subject – in my case a carousel horse. Mini-teaching and demonstration sessions were interjected during the 2 days as we needed them so they were immediately relevant to our progress At all other times James circulated assisting and guiding where he was needed. The venue is ideal a beautiful galleried studio full of daylight as well as warm so very comfortable. . Teas and coffees on tap and on my workshop a delicious cake baked by James was also provided. Yum. Thanks James like so many others I will be back"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Wow, thanks for such a lovely review Helen! It means a lot and I am so chuffed that you have learnt some new skills from your time here. It's been lovely having you come on Mondays too! James x"

Barbara Harwood reviewed: Wire & mixed media sculpture courses with James Ort

"I’ve had a wonderful two days wire sculpting with James. He is a fabulous tutor with lots of enthusiasm and patience. The studio is very peaceful and relaxing it was especially lovely to see his hens wandering about too. This course has really inspired me especially seeing everyone’s creations too, we all did something different. I would definitely recommend this course and I will be back to do something else next year. Thankyou James."

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Thanks for your lovely review Barbara! It was great to see you go on your creative journey and watch your confidence grow as the course went on! Hope you can come back soon x"

Marijke Munro reviewed: Clay portrait weekends with Karin Ort

"My daughter and I had a wonderful weekend making a clay portrait. It was something neither of us had done before and I was a bit apprehensive at first to be able to make anything resembling a face but it was just magical, features come to life under your hands with of course the expert tuition of Karin who would just exactly help where and when it was needed. The group was really nice too, we had good chats over a cup of tea and during lunch. I got the bug for sculpting now and will do more of it in future, it is truly so much fun. Can wholeheartedly recommend this experience!"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"What a cracking review Marijke! Thanks for taking the time to write it and we are so glad that you both came to spend the weekend with us! bw, James and Karin"

lindsey bowen reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"I've just attended my 3rd clay animal weekend. The technique James and Alison teach mean you get very fast results and I never cease to be amazed by the great pieces the entire class end up producing. It's suprising how much you can achieve in two days with great tuition (and home baked banana loaf!)"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"Ahh thanks for your email Lindsay! It's amazing how far homemade banana bread will get you!"

Steph Woods reviewed: Creating ceramic animals courses - with James Ort & Alison Pink

"The clay animal weekend was fabulous. The demos were great and the teachers were so supportive and helpful during my modelling process. I struggled on day one but remembered it's not about the results it's about the learning and creating. On the Sunday I realised I had learned alot already and felt braver and more relaxed, so I just "went for it" and was really pleased with what I created. The environment is so lovely, with great light from the garden accompanied by the cockerel regularly having his say! It is such a beautiful place to be, hang out, create, relax, learn and let go of perfectionist inhibitions! And the people are always so lovely. This was my second visit - I did clay life-modelling last year. I look forward to playing again soon!"