I have taken many art workshops over the last decade, and this is truly one of the best. Donna is an amazing teacher, supporting each student with the level of guidance they need, from beginner to seasoned artist. She makes everyone feel seen, valued, and inspired. I wholeheartedly recommend taking anything from Donna, and plan to do so again soon!

Quality art classes with friendly and talented staff.

This is what an art retreat should be! Amazing comfort, fantastic host and absolutely filled with great souls teaching art. Will be back. This is my happy place.

Donna is a great teacher and so supportive. It was so much fun and informative to take an abstract figures painting class. She helps every one in her classes to reach their potential regardless of their level of abilities. I highly recommend taking one of her classes.

I’ve been to Donna’s classes in person and have just finished my first online class. I was a bit concerned that I would have technical problems or it wouldn’t be as effective as the in-person sessions, but was pleasantly surprised by how well things went and how smooth, professional and educational it was. This is all down to a Donna being such a knowledgeable, patient and sharing teacher. I finished the class feeling energized and excited by the new skills and tips that were shared to all of us. I recommend her classes to anyone wanting to improve any level of art knowledge or just have fun.

Donna is a phenomenal teacher. I have taken classes in person and online. Her curricula are well thought out and sequenced for optimal use of time and resources. She is a wealth of information and experience- plus, her personality is so engaging. She is available to every student for questions, evaluation and critique when requested. She is very much a cheerleader for artists of all levels. I keep coming back for more!

I have taken Donnas online classes and they are so much fun! Learned so much and she will keep you entertained. I highly recommend her classes!

Took Donna Downey’s Altered Art Book class and totally loved this class. Donna is a fabulous teacher as well as Artist. So much value and education for the cost as well as the community of other artisans. Three days of art, play, community, techniques, color, value and Donna Downey! Couldn’t ask for more.

I’ve been to two retreats at Donna’s studio and I have to say they were both phenomenal. Not only the excellent accommodation and food, the beautiful studio with all the things, and the creative energy infused in every square inch - but being able to join in. To have conversations, laugh and cry, to make art together. To study and listen and learn. Am so hoping my scheduled time in November will be possible.In the meantime I’m buying her original art, which is changing the energy in my own home. I feel so fortunate to have made this journey. I highly recommend making it happen!!!

If you are looking to start making art, improve your skills, or just have fun, Donna Downey Studios provides it all. Excellent online courses with detailed instruction or amazing in-person retreats, invest in your creative self. Donna is a great teacher and reaches everyone with different learning styles. I have purchased online tutorials and attend retreats at least once a year. Thank you Donna for all you provide for your students.

From the moment I saw Donna on a video I knew that she would help my art evolve. Little did I know just how much her teaching and friendship would mean to my life.In the last year I have travel to her art compound In North Carolina twice and to Seattle, Washington. I live in San Diego, California.Donna is a very talented artist and fabulous teacher. She shares herself in a very special way.I belong to her Patreon group and look forward to painting with her via video. If you join you will thank me.Ina [email protected]

I stayed at Donna Downeys art retreat Center for a workshop done by Ivy Newport and it was a glorious place filled to overflowing with art, artist, great food (by expert Chef) and the most comfortable lodgings. Donna spends quality time with you as well as goes out of her way to make your stay the BEST ever. Thank you Donna Downey for what you do to make Art happen everywhere.Blessings, Linda

This is more than a studio; more than just a place to take a class or attend a workshop; it’s more than just a retreat. It’s a total experience that is more than the sum of its parts. Especially if you stay onsite. Your own room and time to yourself in the beautifully appointed library, or in the pool, or walking around the grounds surrounded with lush woods. If you wish, you can share time with other creatives around the kitchen table. And, then there is the art! And the chef prepared meals. And the inspiration. And the rejuvenation. And the art! And the community. That’s really what this is: a community. Donna is building community artist by artist.

I have taken many of Donnas online workshops - a lot she has given for free & others are offered at a reasonable price!!! She is funny, encouraging, and very supportive of you learning your own process by giving you her tips and tricks and insights!!! She has worked in all kinds of media and shares her best practices!!! Her stencils are fun & sturdy!! Her art work - amazing!!! Cannot WAIT to visit her place and take a class from her soon!!! SOON!!!

I drove five hours to attend a three day art retreat at Donna Downey Studios and I loved it so much. It was so worth it because I learned so much from the artist Donna had instructing that weekend. I stayed at a hotel really close by. She has lovely accomodations on site and I was impressed. I was pleasantly surprised that lunch was included and coffee was available all day. What a relief! I have taken one of her online classes previously and I have joined her patreon because she offers many classes on there. I am planning on attending another retreat in the future. It is a fabulous learning space and get-away.

I was at the studio to do some work. Had an opportunity to see some of the work Donna does. Amazing.I was very impressed with her work. Also impressed with the studio she has available for classes.

About 5 years ago I was seeking an outlet to express my dream to call myself an artist. I was blessed to find Donna Downey Studios!I call it now my field of dreams! Every experience at the studio has nourished my once hidden artistic talent! Donna and her husband Bill provide an environment that allows for each student to leave feeling successful and lifted for having walk through their door!

Great coffee. The best vegan muffin I ever had.A lot of good art materials, Donna is an great artist and they bring amazing teachers to teach at the studio, like Joanne Barby.The owners are very nice people.

Great studio, great instructors. Bill and Donna are really fun.

Just went here for the first time. What a cool place, looks very inspiring for artists of all levels. Donna the owner is very friendly and helpful. A+!!

Not at this address.

An explosion of color and inspiration!

I really liked that virtual zoom retreat in the comfort of my home . Nobody looking over my shoulders . I felt more confident . It was more playful. Donna is an excellent teacher. She gives attention to every one,answering all questions. She shares techniques and tips in many demonstrations. Your knowledge of color will improve if you take her workshops. She respects your style but her critics are a push in your evolution.Si vous comprenez l’anglais et le parlez un peu vous pouvez suivre les ateliers de Donna. Elle est très compétente . Elle fait beaucoup de démonstrations et répond aux questions des participants . Elle transformera votre façon d’utiliser les couleurs.Les ateliers avec zoom en ligne sont moins intimidants et on se laisse aller plus facilement .Je la recommande fortement.