Stratford Studio - San Jose, California

Faina F.

I've been wanting to learn painting and drawing for a long time. A mutual friend recommended Sandy at Stratford Studios. I was thrilled, but nervous at the same time. Starting from zero experience was intimidating to say the least. It has been exactly one year since. I could never not imagined such results, starting from the very first charcoal driving. I attribute it ALL to Sandy! Somehow as if my magic, she uncovers the latent abilities within her students. She gives you freedom to choose subjects, gentle guidance whenever needed, and always encouraging to push the boundaries and never fear to making mistakes. Sandy is kind, warm and has a great sense of humor. Being at Stratford Studios each and every week is a pure joy. Sandy is the very BEST! I highly recommend her.

I wish the rating system would allow more stars!

Hyojin L.

My daughter has been attending this art studio for over a year, and it's been a fantastic experience. She's improved so much with sketching and pastel pencils, especially in drawing precise lines and focusing on details. Sandy, the teacher, is incredibly kind and makes the classes fun with snacks like hot chocolate and popcorn. My daughter loves her art classes and considers them her ‘healing time.’ I highly recommend this place.

Sami A.

I've been attending Sandy's Stratford Studio art lessons since I was a kid. Sandy not only fostered my love for art, but adjusted our lessons to match my skill level as I grew older and wanted to try different new mediums. My favorite aspect of Sandy's teaching is that she meets you where you're at and listens to your goals as an artist. Can't recommend Stratford Studios enough, for child or adult lessons in art.

Lori M.

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.

Kristin V.

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!

Alan S.

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.

Leah R.

Stratford Studios 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.

Aimee F.

I took art lessons here with Sandy for several years and learned so much! I still have my art pieces framed! Highly recommend for all ages and skills levels.