What they said about last year . . .

• Better than New York!

  Dear Cora and Majella, Personally I found the Sherkin art course the funniest and most enjoyable holiday I have ever had, even better than Australia and New York City! After the junior cert I’ll admit there was a bit of hatred for art after the rigid standard required for the final projects of the year, but after going through your art course, my passion for art has been renewed and I honestly felt giddy most days when working on pieces. The atmosphere was so relaxed and it was so incredibly refreshing not to have a constant pressure to do well in art and in your words, "Paint a pretty picture." Having your own private "studio" and an unlimited supply of art materials was like having a major birthday present and the weather was simply the cherry on the top! The two of you have got to be the most supportive and encouraging people I have ever met, and honestly I was nervous about coming, seeing as most people would end up patronizing someone of my age, so it really meant a lot to me the way the two of you helped me on the course and it gave me a lot more confidence in myself, and for that I truly appreciate the amount of hard work the two of you put into this. Thanks again for making the week a fantastic success, and for being great tutors, and great people, Heather [age 16]

• Great freedom and excellent direction. . .

  The course run by Majella and Cora went far beyond my expectation.  I went to art college and specialized in Graphic Design. I now run my own design company and in my spare time I love to paint but I needed a course like this to free up....it did just that. It was great not to worry about the outcome for a change and the freedom to paint whatever I wanted.  I can certainly use what I've learned and incorporate it in my own painting and now I know how to keep a sketchbook.  Tuition was excellent and what a great atmosphere, I can't think of anywhere else more beautiful to do a course like this......I recommend it highly Siobhan Duggan Graphic Design Consultant DM Design http://www.dmdesign.ie

• Beyond all expectations

  Dear Cora and Majella, Firstly thank you for a wonderful week, beyond all of our expectations! And yes, we are having withdrawal symptoms. As you know I've always had an interest in art but this course has spurred me on to seriously plan to apply for the four year art degree program on your beautiful island at least that will help me with my withdrawal symptoms! I was very impressed with the individual studio areas provided for us and the array of materials available to us. As for the tuition it was superb, encouraging, informative and best of all fun! I can also honestly add that the week totally loosened up my approach to art which I was looking for - so I'm now working on my portfolio and sketchbook and a better working space but also just doing pieces for me- not trying to "not mess the page" and not trying to achieve the perfect or pretty picture. Interestingly this approach produces much stronger pieces! Also just to mention I found the format of the week excellent - studio time, outdoor work, trip to Heir Island and the great fun with all the people we met! Only thing was the week was over too quick! Still miss you and Madge but have no doubt will meet again Ann

• The perfect creative haven

  I have been working in the creative industry for two years and felt completely burnt out. Deadlines and working from a computer 9 to 5 had sucked all of the creativity out of me! When I heard about the Sherkin Island art course it seemed like the perfect creative haven. I was slightly worried that the course would be very traditional in its art teaching methods and that we would be sitting around doing still lives all day. I had just finished four years of art college so didn’t need that. However when I arrived I was blown away by the course. Cora and Madge are completely open minded and encouraging. They really tapped into my dormant (tired) creative self and before I knew it I was totally relaxed and being creative. The course is completely open to every individuals needs. The "student" is allowed explore and work at their own speed and Madge and Cora were always on hand if a creative block occurred.   Also being on an island really helped as the normal hustle and bustle of life was far away back on the main land. We were really lucky also that our group really bonded well our week was full of laughs and there was always a nice relaxed atmosphere in the evenings. The day trip to Heir island was a brilliant break up of the week and it was lovely to be able to meet and talk to established artists. Also another big highlight was seeing Madge’s studio. I had been aware of her work before I went on the course and it was really great to see how she worked up her paintings. Michelle [Graphic Designer]

• A week of inspiration

  Thanks for a great week, one to remember when I trudge out with an umbrella and wellies to do some sketches or land-art on Bantry shores.  And a big thanks for getting me back to Bantry.  If I manage to get a portfolio together and get an application in before the deadline for the BA course, I'm going to aim high and go for it.  The most that can happen is that I'm turned down but that's not the end of the world, my sketchbook, pencils, etc. will still be part of me. This was a week of inspiration in that I not only used materials to produce work in ways I had not done before; had the tuition of two great women giving me courage to not only take the critique from the group but to critique my work as well; the fact that being on Sherkin Island made the stay and impetus to work easier, it's a lovely setting for this.  On reflection and because of this workshop, I am definitely taking courage in my hands and applying for the BA degree course in Sherkin Island . Thanks again for the lovely time on Sherkin, it certainly is a magical place. Pauline [aged 79]

• Fantastic from start to finish

  I am a self thought Artist Preparing for an exhibition in August, I never did any art course of any kind so the one on Sherkin was my first. I arrived on Sherkin and from that time the buzz and excitement began, Majella and Cora were there to meet us. The course it self was fantastic from start to finish Majella and Cora could not have done enough , fantastic  tutors which brought out the best in us as a group and made it fun, my lasting memory will be the trip to Heir Island where we made an instillation on the beach. I am now hoping to do the four year degree course, thanks guys you’re legends.....take care   Pauline 

• Educated, inspired and encouraged

  As I Am writing this review of my time spent on the summer visual art workshop on Sherkin Island I am still in 'ART HEAVEN' From the onset both Cora and Majella made me feel welcome and worthy......nothing is too much trouble for those two, Their organizational skills are second to none! I have attended numerous art courses in the past and being organized is usually the exception rather than the rule..... which can make for a frustrating time!! but not here! The group consisted of a mixed bunch with various age ability and attitude but we gelled very quickly over dinner and soon we were all 'hanging out' together. The accommodation and food was excellent!!! it was a great idea to vary the location of where we ate over the week.   Tuition on the course is excellent with both Cora and Majella at the top of their artistic careers. We were encouraged all the way. No question no matter how trivial it seemed was left unanswered. They provided constructive criticism in a most genuine and caring way. We were encouraged to be 'wildly expressive' and uninhibited with our creativity ......which did cause quite a mess....but what fun....... this course has made me realize that I'd forgotten to' JUST HAVE FUN'.......and I did!!!!!  We were given access to an abundent array of top quality materials.....tools of the trade so to speak...nothing was spared. Also I have never drank so much tea in my life!  I have been involved in 'ART' in some shape or form all of my life.....it is the one activity that makes me most happy. I have worked in galleries and studied art in various genres. This course has encouraged me to 'brush' up on my portfolio and I have applied to take part in the B.A in visual arts run by D.I.T on the Island over four years.....if my application is successful I will be a very happy bunny......fingers crossed.....  To conclude I have been educated inspired....encouraged.......I’ve laughed and achieved so much during my week on Sherkin it has made my world a better place... Long may the Sherkin feeling last Roll on next year!!!!! Jean gardiner.