Testimonials

Name: Priyanka Ray
City: Auckland
Year: 2012
Workshop attended: Charcoal Landscape Workshop
This one is my 5th Art Weekend with Diana & Richard, and I must say I enjoyed it thoroughly as much as I did my other classes with them. 

I had a bit of painting experience before I joined them. But I have met fellow students who never had done any painting before and could produce fabulous art works at end of the class and dumbfound themselves & others around .

Over a couple of weekend workshops, I have been able to learn many different techniques under their able guidance. This keep me coming back for more.

I feel, one of the key differentiators of their workshops is that -  all your works are done by ‘only yourself’, they teach you step by step  , show you how to do next bit /suggest you steps to correct mistakes , but they never touch your work. Which means the amazing ‘work’ you produce at end of the workshop do justice to your signature on the canvas. This is such a lovely feeling.

Both Diana & Richard are very methodical and complement each other when it comes to teaching . The guide books that are given to us during the class are so helpful as  future reference.

The best thing about this particular workshop was that I could take 4 finished charcoal landscapes  home at end of the session. They were just so good.

Am so glad to recommend them to anybody who is interested to learn deft use of various art medium in an easy going, safe & encouraging environment.

Name: Gretta
City: Auckland
Year: 2012
Workshop attended: Portrait Weekend Workshop
Just a quick email to let you know we arrived home safe & sound. I showed some of our family my work and they were blown away. I of course think it could be better but I just wanted to let you know how I am so appreciative of what you managed to teach me ! I Never could have drawn a face that even resembled a person let alone do the shading & all the little extras I’ve learnt prior to your incredible workshop. It is just so exciting a life long dream come true. I really cannot tell you how long I have wished to draw a persons face – so many to try now !!!! I am worn out from the full on weekend, packed with heaps for the money. Worn out ….. but VERY happy.
Your teaching style, techniques, patience & easy friendly manner is fabulous

Name: Malu Malo
City: Auckland
Year: 2012
Workshop attended: Portrait Weekend Workshop
Testimonial: I have always loved drawing but most of the things I've drawn are cartoon like or really abstract that no one can really tell what it is. I've never taken art classes (apart from high school) but have tried to teach myself with art books. It never works and I end up giving up because I get bored and frustrated because I don't know if I'm progressing and where I'm going wrong. At the workshops though I found it way more enjoyable because not only was I able to learn new drawing skills, but I was able to gain feedback and guidance on areas I could improve on. Richard and Diana are a dynamic duo who provide great feedback and encouragement about your work, but also make the class inviting and fun. Now I am strides better in my drawing, and I can't wait to reach the level of Richard and Diana with my drawing. If my mum didn't actually see me drawing, she wouldn't believe that I did it. For me this is a great achievement, because my mum is always my toughest critic and she's never afraid to dish out the tough love. So I would highly recommend this workshop, and I guess there's no doubt that I would definitely attend another workshop or class in the future.


Name: Nikki Harrison
City: Auckland
Year: 2012
Workshop attended: Portrait Weekend
Testimonial: I can't say enough wonderful things about Diana and Richard and the excellent work they do. Before I met Diana and Richard I knew (or so I thought) that I was one of those people who just had not natural talent, at all. When I began with them I was nervous, even anxious about drawing but the friendly, relaxed and supportive atmosphere of Diana and Richard's workshops had me producing amazing work before long. I was (and continue to be) amazed at what I - someone with completely no experience or confidence in art at all - was able to create almost immediately.

I have also been part of the weekly lessons that Diana and Richard run in Auckland and absolutely love it. If you've always longed to be able to create beautiful art but never felt that you were one of those lucky people able to, even if you honestly believe you could never do it, then this is the place for you. I never, ever, ever thought I would be able to draw anything half decent let alone the beautiful work that I am able to do now after working with Diana and Richard.

I loved this workshop and will most definitely be doing more!


Name: Michael Watson
City: Russell
Year:2012
Workshop attended:Charcoal Landscape 2-day Workshop
Testimonial: Great learning experience not to be missed... Watch out these classes are addictive..!!

Name:  Hilary Coutts
City: Russell
Year: 2012
Workshop attended: Charcoal Landscape 2-day Workshop
Right side of my brain activated again! Thank you both so much for such a stimulating and educational Worksop in Russell last week.
I had not picked up a pencil or brush for nearly 20 years and kept putting off doing so. Your charcoal drawing workshop was the perfect reintroduction to the world of art. Line and tone in the raw with 2 excellent tutors who inspired confidence as well as demonstrating techniques. I drove home after each session seeing the landscape in a completely different way. I was amazed at what I was able to draw with your careful guidance as well as enjoying the convivial atmosphere with fellow, face smudged students.
Thank you both again and please let me know the dates of your next Russell workshop.

Name   Maggie Sales
Town   Russell
Date 9th and 10th January 2011
Class  Charcoal Workshop
I really enjoyed these 2 days.  I learnt so much to aid in my drawing
skills and actually produced
some work that I could be reasonably satisfied with.
Will continue to attend Richard and Diane's weeking classes.
Cannot wait until I can attend another workshop.



Name:  Raewyn Judkins
City: Whangarei
Year: 2011
Workshop attended: Toi Toi Landscape and Pukeko
Testimonial: Thanks Dianna and Richard for truly enjoyable days in your workshops.  Skills are learnt and practiced at your workshops in a friendly, non-threatening environment where people at all levels can work side by side in a companionable manner.  A ready mix of encouragement, guidance and challenge flows throughout the day allowing everyone to achieve a result that they are truly happy with.  The energy level maintained for these packed full days is a testament to the skill and personal qualities Richard and Dianna bring to their teaching.  The workshops offer a variety of skills allowing the student to accumulate a good variety of painting techniques for use in personal projects.  Invaluable learning. I will be attending more as time and opportunity allow.

Name:  Judith Graham
City:    Kerikeri
Year:   2011
Workshop attended:  Pukeko
Testimonial:  I had not done a painting before - am a complete amateur and by lunchtime was thinking I was not going to finish the painting.  But with the extreme patience and encouragement from Diana and Richard I managed to complete my picture.  I am surprised that for my very first attempt I have been able to produce a “masterpiece”.  Diana and Richard are deserving of the praise they receive for the effort and energy that they put into these classes.  I now have ideas to practice before I embark on another of their creative classes next year.

Name: Raewyn Sissons   
City:Kerikeri
Year:2011
Workshop attended: Pukeko
Testimonial: I really enjoyed my day with Richard & Diana. Learn’t lots of tips. We got lots of individual attention. The atmosphere was very relaxed and fun.   I would definitely do another workshop. 

Name: Chris Mason
City: Whangarei
Year: 2011
Workshop attended:  Pukekohe Painting
Testimonial:             Having never painted before, I wanted to learn what paint to use, how to put it on a canvas and what to do.  Being a ‘first timer’ seemed daunting but Diana and Richard were great.  I learnt so much and would definitely recommend this as a great way to get started!  I hope to go to another workshop to add to what I have learnt.  The workshop gives you confidence to try things and Diana and Richard know how to help if you make a ‘mistake’!  Well worth it!

Name: Jeanie Border
City:Kerikeri
Year: 2011
Workshop attended:  Kerikeri Pukeko
Testimonial: Thanks for another wonderful workshop and pleasant day Richard and Di.  The way you help your pupils and look after them is second to none.

Name: Barbara van Zyl
City:     Auckland
Year:    2011
Workshop attended:    Kingfisher Painting
Testimonial:    I had never painted before and found the well organised workshop a really excellent introduction.  The small intimate class means that you get personal attention from both Richard and Diana throughout the process.  It was such an enjoyable experience and the day passed far too quickly.  I am so thrilled with my painting and hope to do another class in the near future.

Name: Ian Kershaw
City: Auckland
Year: 2011
Workshop Attended: Beach Scene Painting
Just a quick note to thank you so much for the Beach Scene Painting Class I
attended today. Although Graham Sydney probably has nothing to worry
about from my first attempt, I am absolutely rapt with the result as I had not
picked up a paint brush since leaving school 35 years ago!

You need to be commended on your teaching methods (and patience) as I would never have believed that in a single day I could have produced a (reasonable) piece of artwork. It has certainly inspired me to continue painting and I will no doubt see you at one of your other workshops! I learnt so much today that it would take too long to put in a short email, but, I would certainly recommend any of your courses to those wanting to learn how to paint, no matter their experience or skill level.


Name: Mary Ma
City: Auckland
Year: 2011
Workshop attended:July 2011 Learn to Draw Weekend Workshop
Testimonial: I have never learned drawing before. After two days' workshop with Diana & Richard, I am amazed how much I have learnt. When I look at those drawings I have done, I feel so happy and I feel a sense of achievement. I never thought I could be able to do that well too. I would definitely love to attend another workshop in future.

Name: Deanna Jansson
City: Auckland
Year: 2011
Workshop Attended: Paua Painting Workshop
Testimonial:   I had such an enjoyable day painting at this workshop.  I was a total paint novice with my experience limited to painting with my children, which was more about setting up and cleaning up for them. I did feel very apprehensive at the start but I needn't have because every step in
the process was well explained, demonstrated and achievable, with lots
of assistance. The atmosphere was relaxed, non-judgemental and fun, and
the company friendly. It was very rewarding to actually complete a
'real' painting and I look forward to attending as many of these
workshops as I can.

Name: Mary Ma
City: Auckland
Year: 2011
Workshop attended: Paua Shell Painting Workshop
Testimonial: I have really enjoyed the paua shell workshop. Diana and Richard are great teachers. I definitely would like to attend more workshops

Name: Erica Gremmelmaier
City: Auckland
Year:2011
Workshop attended: Pohutukawa Painting and Kina Shell Painting Workshops
Testimonial: For those who have no prior painting experience this is certainly a great workshop to attend.  Richard and Diana work as a great team and patiently guided me through achieving a couple of paintings that I'm very chaffed with.  They were patient when stuck on a technique that I found tricky and appreciated that they encouraged me, instead of doing it for me.  I loved the mixed media painting and certainly look to attending more workshops in the future. 


Name:  Jan Mason
City:     Auckland
Year:     2011
Workshop attended:  Pink Camelia
Testimonial:    I was quite nervous attending the workshop as I had no previous experience with acrylic paints. Also I had not received any tutoring in art since distant school days.
I need not have worried.  Richard and Diana gave full and helpful advise and immediately put us all at ease.  The workshop was great fun and the time just flew.   I would definitely consider attending another workshop in the future.

Name:  David Scoffham
City:  Russell, Bay of Islands
Year:  2011
Workshop attended:  2- Day Portrait Drawing Workshop
Whereas I have done some water-colour work ages ago, I have always concentrated more on landscapes since I found that my attempts at drawing people were really rather pathetic, so they just annoyed the subjects.

So I was truly amazed to find that I could actually produce quite an accurate, life-like image of the face of a pretty girl from a photograph after only a few hours of gentle instruction from Richard & Diana. I must admit that I was greatly assisted by the attractive girl in the photo who I was attempting to portray (this was guaranteed to motivate me and to drive me not to ruin her good looks!), but both I found Richard & Diana’s guidance most effective. It was good fun to boot and above all, truly relaxing, since I simply had to focus hard on the girl’s face and wipe all other thoughts from my mind to ensure I gave her my best.

So now the challenge is to find the time to practice and extend my skills! Easier said than done, especially for me, since I often get side-tracked by other matters. But the experience was so very rewarding that I know I’ll rise to this challenge, even if it does take me a few more weeks or a spell of bad weather to do so.   Thank you, Richard & Diana

Name:  Faith Sutton
City:  Auckland 
Year:  2011
Workshop attended:  Portrait Drawing Weekend
Testimonial:   Fantastic weekend - recommend to everyone!  This has given me heaps of confidence and the skills to draw faces which is something I  never  thought I would be ever be able to do.  Thanks once again to Richard and Diana who are really the most amazing people!

Name: Michelle Kweon
City: Auckland
Year: 2011
Workshop attended: Portrait weekend workshop
Testimonial: I had the best time learning how to draw portraits with Diana and Richard! Always wanted to learn but never knew where and how to begin.  I was happy with my portrait by the end of the workshop and I think with practice I will get there!  Easy to follow steps and friendly environment. I would 100% go back and draw again!

Name: Cristine Aronson (Just Imagine Art Gallery)
City: Russell, Bay of Islands
Year: April 2011
Weekly Drawing Classes & Portrait Drawing 2 - Day WorkShop in Russell
Seven weeks ago I didn't think the words "I can draw" would ever be uttered .  While those words are still in the very early formation, I know have the confidence to try my hand at something I have always wanted to do: learn to draw!  Thanks to Diana and Richard's teaching techniques which are fun, relaxed and step by step, I am learning to use more of my right brain, see shapes and discern different values of light and dark,  filled space and negative space.  In addition , the portrait workshop we did was two days of absolute joy.  Never have I learned so much in such a brief time or had so much pleasure doing so.  Richard and Diana are a dynamic team, whose positive comments and gentle coaching helped me and each of us produce  portraits of which  we could be proud. If you have ever wanted to learn to draw, take a workshop or a course with the Moores.  It may change your life; it has changed mine!!

Name: Raymond and Rozlyn Walsh
City: Russell, Bay of Islands
Year: April 2011
Portrait Drawing 2 - Day WorkShop in Russell
Testimonial:  Just fantastic.  Richard and Diana are such good teachers.  The work we produced was very pleasing and many of us had very little drawing experience.  A workshop that is suitable for all levels and there is always so much to learn.  We were taken through the various steps with skill and patience and every moment was enjoyable.  The time passed all too fast.

Name: Debbie Haworth
City:Auckland
Year:2011
Workshop attended:Tuscany Landscape
Testimonial:We both had so much fun together. It is a wonderful way to spend a day with someone special and immensely satisfying producing lovely work.

Name:  Faith Sutton
City:  Auckland
Year:  2011
Workshop attended:  Landscape Toi Toi
Testimonial:  "Absolutely awesome day, learnt so much and would highly recommend to all.  I will be attending as many workshops as I can as Richard and Diana are fantastic teachers and very patient.  I am still taking in at what I turned out at the end of the day especially for someone who had no experience of painting before. My friends and family are amazed!  I urge you to give it a go and you will never regret it and will absolutely love it. "

Name: Jeanne Alison
City: Whangarei
Year: 2011
Workshop attended: Landscape with Toi Toi & Drawing Classes
Testimonial: Thank you Richard and Diana for the opportunity to learn from the best teachers. You create a wonderful relaxed enviornment and give confidence.  I have always wanted to do art and have just had a go on my own, but now to be taught with your knowledge and techniques in amazing.  When I go to my weekly class I don't want to stop.  Sunday was great being an all day class.  I love my painting.  Thank you.


Name:  Peter Gilling, General Manager
Custom Motorbodies 1998 Ltd
City:   Auckland   Year: 2010
Workshop:  Learn to Draw Portraits Weekend, Takapuna
Testimonial:I have just  attended the workshop Portrait Drawing Weekend offered by Richard and Diana Moore (Moore Fine Arts)  held at the Community rooms in Takapuna May 1st and 2nd 2010.
Although in my 64th year I approached this course with some trepidation as I had difficulty in drawing a straight line or indeed drawing anything you would recognise as an artistic form.
However I braved the day on Saturday morning  and was pleased to be welcomed by Richard and Diana who were very friendly and welcoming.
The course was organised – but informal – non judgemental – but inspirational –  grounded and instructive – but most of all fun – the time just flew and the weekend seemingly was over before it started.
Although in my opinion I was probably at the bottom of the class of 10  – I had picked up tools and skills I could use in both my hobbies at home and my job as manager of an engineering company.
The crunch came on Sunday night when I put my weekend’s work in front of my kids – Nicholas and Marianne – probably my harshest critics – yeah Dad  not bad  - they gave me 7/10 – almost brought tears to my eyes.
For those of you who would like to draw or paint – who say  you have to be born to it -I say to you give Richard and Diane a try – masters of right brain activity.

Name: Julia Ray
City: Whangarei
Year: 2011
Workshop attended:  Kingfisher Painting
Testimonial:  Its 42 years since I last held a paintbrush!  Diana and Richard have given me the confidence and refresher skills to enable me to enjoy painting again.  It was a good fun day with a nice balance between, theory, practice, tea breaks and humour! 
I feel quite proud of my finished painting  and it will definately be hung on display.  As a result of the day I hope to be able to add a few more pictures painted on my own using the new skills learned.  After a few months of pratice I hope to attend another workshop and try painting something new.

Name: Meghan Woodney
City: Hamilton
Year: 2011
Workshop attended: Learn To Draw Workshop
Testimonial:
YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME!!! You make the perfect team, Diana is such an amazingly patient teacher and Richard is so expressive with his art and really good at showing you the correct style or movements needed for effect. After one afternoon you can easily see how anyone can use their simple method. I can't believe the high I have been on since the workshop and how proud of my drawings I am. Everyone was completely shocked at what I was able to produce it was a real pleasure so see my family's jaw drop with amazement! Thanks so much you two for opening up a whole new world to me and I am looking forward to sending you some new materials in the future or possibly another workshop.

Name:  Nelia Vanderwoude
City:  North Shore
Year: 2010
Workshop attended:  Portrait Painting
"I am still awed in disbelief as to how I was able to produce portraits with such soulful eyes – in two weekend lessons only.  Your workshops are a fantastic opportunity to extend what we know and to learn new techniques that are so easy to follow.  Both of you walked an extra mile with us giving us the individualised attention as needed and guided as in our journey.  My 7-year old daughter was ecstatic (as much as I have surprised myself too) to see how I painted her eyes beautifully.  This is so far my 3rd workshop I have attended and as always, I am a very satisfied client.  I love your work and I am looking forward to seeing both of you this coming Sunday for my 4th workshop – the parrot painting!  "

Name:Luen Wong
City:Auckland
Year:2010
Workshop attended:Portrait weekend
Testimonial: I have no experience with drawing, but always wanted to learn. I honestly shocked myself with what I could produce in such a short time! Richard and Diana are great teachers, the class is small, you get a lot of attention and encouragement. Dont deny yourselves anymore, participate, and enjoy your results!! Thanks Richard and Diana.

Name: Olena Sulimoff
City: Auckland
Year: 2010
Learn to Draw Weekly Art Classes in Auckland
Testimonial: I always liked art to look at, but never knew that I could create art myself .
I have attended only 6 lessons, time flew quick. I drew 4 pictures. My friends call me a talented artist now , and they have asked me to draw their pets.
Teachers, Diana and Richard, are helpful, friendly and wonderful people. With their directions and tips I achieved very good results. I found another side of myself and what is the most important for me, it brought me closer to my children. I don't think I will stop to draw now. It is interesting, exciting, therapeutic, rewarding hobby.
Thank you very much Diana and Richard for sharing your talent with us. 

Name:  Lyn Clough
City:  Kerikeri
Year:  2010
Workshop attended:  Pohutakawa Beach Scene
Testimonial:  I have a collection of blank canvases, bought on sale, waiting for me to start painting.  However, I just did not have the knowledge or confidence to know where to begin.  All that changed when I attended Richard and Diana's painting workshop.  Our group followed step by step friendly instructions and created stunning pictures.  Each person received personal help if they got stuck and Richard painted the same picture so we could see what we were aiming to achieve.  It was such an enjoyable day and an inspiration for me to continue and paint a canvas at home.  I highly recommend these workshops to anyone with an interest in painting.

Name:  Tapi
City     Auckland    Year    2010
WorkshopAttendedLearn to Draw Portraits
"Thank you Richard & Diana for the very interesting & comprehensive 2 days workshop. It was a very good experience to learn from two very kind & dedicated people like you both.
My before & after pictures speak for themselves. I would love to attend any further workshop if I get another oppertunity to visit your beautiful country ,as I return to India next month.
Thank you once again."

Name: Ariella Bond
City: Auckland
Year: 2010
Workshop attended: Portrait drawing
"I LOVED this course.  I learnt so much, and left with pieces of work that I was so proud of.  I was a little dubious about whether the course would live up to the praise of other people, but it definitely did.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. "


Name:  Von Cassidy
City:   Auckland   Year: 2008
Workshop:  Tuscany Painting Workshop, Takapuna
"Diana and Richard, thank you for the wonderful painting course that I was lucky enough to attend last Sunday.  I didn’t know what to expect, but was hoping that I would pick up a few tips on how to paint.  The whole day was excellent.  You both were so helpful, friendly and encouraging and the caring atmosphere that you established from the beginning carried on throughout the day.  I learned such a lot, and with your helpful tips and suggestions we all ended up being amazed at what we had produced.  It was a wonderful day."

Name: Jenny Roest
City: Auckland   Year: 2008
Workshop attended: Painting Workshop - Pink Camelia
Testimonial: I thoroughly enjoyed the workshop and learnt so much. Richard and Diana helped us through step-by-step so we never felt too out of depth. Although everyone put their own style on their painting they all looked fabulous! Looking forward to the next one.

Name: Tee Ngatupuna
City: Otara, Manukau City    Year: December 2008
Workshop attended: Painting Camellias
Testimonial:
First time painter since high school, I came across Richard & Diana via their website and decided to register by way of interest.  I’ve always loved art & painting, I had brought so many books along the years but felt it was necessary to attend an actual class, and I’m so glad that I did .  The instructions were very simple to follow, all tools provided on the day, Richard & Diana really made you feel welcome which was fantastic.  Thanks Richard & Diana.

Name: Simon Glynn
City: Auckland   Year 2009
Workshop Attended: Learn to Draw Portraits Weekend
A big thank you for running the workshop over the weekend. It was the first drawing class I have attended and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a nice, relaxed atmosphere and at yet at the same time focused on getting the most out of the class.

Name:Carol Bates
City: North Shore    Year 2009
Workshop Attended: Learn to Draw Portraits Weekend
I especially liked the way you guided us without actually doing it for us. It must be a huge temptation to grab the pencil & “help” the students. It is so rewarding to be able to say I drew it myself. With my scientific background I always knew I was a “lefty” so it will be interesting to see how practice will develop the right side.

Name: Kassie Watson
City: Auckland     Year: 2009
Workshop attended: Pohutakawa Beach (plus Tuscany Scene/Pink Camilia)
“I have thoroughly enjoyed now 3 painting workshops, and can’t express how supportive and encouraging you both are in facilitating them. I have 3 beautiful paintings I am proud of, as well as inspiration and confidence to continue to do my own paintings. Thank you for your kindness and support and I look forward to seeing you both at future painting workshops!”

Name: Chris Cowley-Thomson
City: Whangarei  Year: 2009
Workshop attended: Paua Shell
"Thank you so much for today. I really enjoyed myself and I am still buzzing over my achievement. My painting is hanging in our dinning room already and I think looking pretty good on our coloured wall."

Name:  Anna Williams
City:  Whangarei
Year:  2009 Workshop: Paua Shell Painting
"I had been intending to attend the Moores painting workshop for a while and am so pleased I finally got there. I've never believed I could paint any decent sort of picture due to lack of "natural talent." However I bought home a painting yesterday that I'm really proud of. The step by step techniques are easy to follow and Richard and Diana are very supportive in their teaching. I'd recommend anyone who longs to be able to paint, but doesn't believe they can, to give it a go!"

Name: Annabel Stewart
City: Auckland
Year: 2009
Workshop attended: Lavendar Field Tuscany
Testimonial: Loved the worskhop, hadn't painted in about 12 years and this was a great way to get started again. Richard and Diana were really helpful and obviously very talented, their instructions and demonstration were clear and great to follow. Really lovely creative day with like minded others in the class. Will definately sign up for more workshops.

Name: Diane Boucher   
City:Whangarei
Year:2009
Workshop attended:Lavender Fields Acrylic Painting
Testimonial:I have been painting for the last four years and have had some tuition for three of those in the basic ABC's of various painting techniques. For the last year I have been painting at home and watching many tutorials on DVD's.My preferred medium is oils and am very fortunate that some of my work has been accepted into some galleries.
I attended this workshop as always thirsty for knowledge connected to painting. I wanted not only to learn to use and handle acrylic paint but the subject looked as though it would help me to paint more painterly instead of the tight pedantic habit I was getting into.
I found the workshop was all I expected it to be with all the instruction and guidance from two very encouraging positive people. Thank you Richard and Diana.I would not hesitate in recommending these workshops as a friendly, instructive, great value for money day indulging in a great pastime. Look forward to further workshops.
PS. I love my painting and so do my strongest critiques. My Family.

Name: Heinrich (Rick) Louw
City:  Auckland          
Year: 2009
Workshop attended: Pohutakawa Painting Workshop
Thanks again for an amazing workshop – I thoroughly enjoyed it and would surely try and attend another one in the near future. I found the workshop very inspirational and I had also learnt in the workshop that I actually have capabilities that I never thought I did. Everybody should explore their creative side!

Name: Laurence E (Larry) Ogden
City:  Auckland          
Year: 2009
Workshop attended: Tiger Eyes
Testimonial: Really good fun, and although hard work for an ‘ol fulla like me, I enjoyed the day immensely Diana and Richard provided good instruction and comment, and enabled me to see how an artist can be taught, not necessarily born with a talent.
I recommend the course to anyone interested in exploring their inner artist!

Name: Debby Keay
City: Whangarei
Year: 2009
Workshop attended: Paua Shell
Testimonial: "Really enjoyed the workshop, you were clear and helpful in the steps to be taken and knowledgeable about the products we used. The Paua shell painting emerged very easily from the blank canvas under your guidance. Thank you."

Name: Irene Henry
City: Auckland
Year: 2009
Workshop attended: Lavender Fields
Testimonial: This is my second workshop with Richard & Diana. The easy atmosphere of the class really gives me the confidence to paint - there is help & support at hand if I need it. Their classes are simple but the results are stunning. Everyone has a great day. I look forward the next workshop.

Name: Noliene Greig
City:   Whangarei
Year:   2009
Workshop attended: Pohutukawa Tree - Acrylics
Testimonial: I really enjoyed this very informative day class.  We were kept busy learning new techniques as well as producing a very nice painting. The time flew by and I came away knowing that I had learned a great deal.  This to me, is the greatest way to successfully take in new information.  Thankyou.

Name: Deborah Forkert
City: Tauranga Year: 2009
Workshop Attended: Pohutakawa Painting Workshop
Your class was by far the best I have had the pleasure to attend!
"Finally, tutors who share their knowledge and techniques and give helpful hints and instructions!
Thank you so much. I thoroughly enjoyed your class and am pleased I made the effort to travel up to it."

Name: Esta Hampton
City:    Kerikeri
Year:   2009
Workshop attended:  Pohutakawa Painting
Testimonial:  I thoroughly enjoyed painting the Pohutakawa tree.  Richard showed us all the little tricks which made it really simple and I would have no hesitation in going to another workshop.

Name: Anna M
City: Auckland
Workshop attended: Painting Workshop
"Thank you so much for the class.  I loved it and I love my painting. I will be coming back for more."

Name: Annette Byron
City: Hamilton
Workshop attended: Painting Workshop
"Thank you for a wonderful day. You and Richard are very special people.  Your professionalism, enthusiasm and good natured banter was a pleasure to see."

Name: Alison Henry
City: Auckland
Workshop attended: Painting Workshop
"Thank you for the wonderful day.  I learned so much in such a short time."

Name: Helen Booth
City: Auckland
Workshop attended:  Painting Workshop
"Thank you so much for a fantastic day yesterday. I thoroughly enjoyed it and have driven everyone nuts showing them my painting! "

Name: Marg Norrie
City: Auckland   Year: 2008
Workshop attended: How to Draw
"Great teachers who make drawing seem easy!"

Name:  Irene Henry
City:  Auckland 
Workshop attended:  Learn to Draw Weekend
"Just a quick note to say thanks for a wonderful weekend.
It was lovely to meet you and the others in the class (although there wasn’t much time to get to know each other as we were so focused on learning!) I want to say thank you for giving me the key to a door I have been searching for. I am eager to continue with my journey."

Name:  Sujatha Gopalkrishnan
City:  Auckland     Year:  2008
Workshop attended:  Weekend drawing workshop for beginners 
"This weekend workshop has reawakened a long but dormant interest in drawing and I am most certainly looking forward to future workshops.  I enjoyed the easy teaching approach and the wonderful techniques that Richard and Diana so generously shared with us."

Name:  Heather Edwards
City:   Whangarei
Year:   2011
Workshop attended:  Landscape Painting
Testimonial:  I am a real beginner at drawing and painting and going to this workshop was great fun.  I reckon my painting is not too shabby and even though we all did the same painting they all looked different, even though we all used the same paint colours but our mixes were different.  I had a wonderful day, good company and a fun time learning.  I would highly recommend Diana & Richard’s workshops to anyone interested in drawing and painting.  I’ll definitely be going back for more.


Name: Shirley Emerson
City: Whangarei
Year: 2011
Workshop attended: Landscape with Toi Toi & Drawing Classes
I attended a paint workshop in Whangarei in March 2011.
I never took art at school and had reservations regarding my ability to even be part of this workshop...would I be a complete failure? Well, from the moment we were welcomed until time to walk back out the door, I was made to feel at ease and assured "you can do it".
And I did!  I am proud of the finished painting and the sense of achievement is priceless.
Richard and Diana team up together to teach, advise, encourage - and all this done in a warm and happy environment. I am glad to be attending their drawing classes this term and would certainly wish to attend another painting workshop in the future.
Shirley Emerson




All records of testimonials are on file.