Student Testimonials

Student work:

Below is the first completed drawing by online mentorship student, Zach Meyer, under the ongoing mentorship of Sara from 2023 - 2024.

“I reached out to Sara when I was stuck in my artistic practice. Within the first couple of sessions, I experienced many breakthroughs in how I approached drawing. Sara is an outstanding teacher. I gained new insights in every session, and she was patient, encouraging, and motivated me to learn more. I particularly enjoyed her demonstrations; it felt like observing an old master at work. I learned more from her than I did in six years of art school, it has changed my life.”

- Zach Meyer, Online Mentorship Student, 2023 - ongoing.

 “I thoroughly enjoyed Sara’s workshop. We were set up in her lovely home with drawing tables and plenty of room to work in. Sara’s style of teaching is informative and patient. I loved watching her demo her process. She is very generous and transparent about her technique. She also leaves plenty of time for questions and individual help. Our class had a range of student artists from beginning to professional and Sara navigated the difference in skill levels with ease. I highly recommend Sara’s workshop and feel so lucky to have spent time with her.” - Mika D., “Intro to Mixed Media Graphite & PanPastel” Workshop Student, 2024

I wanted to take a moment to tell you just how much I enjoyed and learned at Sara’s recent intro to graphite & pastel workshop. Sara was SO generous to invite the class to her beautiful home and retreat in the redwoods. The setting was absolutely phenomenal and her hospitality beyond words. I loved seeing the studio where all of the magic happens. Wow, pure awesomeness.
The five days spent at the studio were inspiring and truly a vacation in the woods. Sara’s  approach to teaching her technique was so well presented and demonstrated, that I left with new and exciting approaches to graphite drawing and a knowledge of pastels that I didn’t know existed. How can anyone be so unassuming, talented, and unselfish? 
Sara, thank you for the workshop! It was inspirational and I am eager to try some new stuff.

- Bob S., “Intro to Mixed Media Graphite & PanPastel” Workshop Student, 2024

“I cannot recommend this workshop enough. Chelsie Murfee and Sara Gallagher are incredible instructors. From the first moments of the first day, the tone was set for the perfect learning environment for every one of their students. They facilitated introductions and connections for each of us, thoroughly discussing the details of the project and meeting each artist where they are, regardless of background or experience level. Their demonstrations were expertly narrated and no detail was overlooked. Sara and Chelsie generously share a wealth of knowledge and techniques they have developed within their respective practices. They make their process accessible to students at every skill level with positivity and encouragement. Even more than the techniques and incredible knowledge shared, the sense of community that these women intentionally built within the workshop setting is invaluable. I have made lasting friendships and meaningful connections from this wonderful experience, and I look forward to another workshop again with these artists in the future.”   - Traci W.M., “Drawing the Self Portrait” Workshop Student, 2024

“In May of 2024 I was fortunate enough to experience a Drawing the Self-Portrait workshop instructed by Chelsea Murfee and Sara Gallagher. It was extraordinary! The studio and gallery space is loaded with charm. The work on the walls was of such a high quality, it proved inspirational. It is located on a town square that looks as if it belongs in Mayberry, complete with a beautiful courthouse and lovely gazebo. The supplies they provided were top quality. The workshop included a personal photoshoot complete with edits and digital images as well as incredible instruction and insights as to the application of both graphite and PanPastel. The girls were AMAZING. Not only are they incredibly talented with tremendous work ethics, they are open, honest, caring and generous to a fault. They are truly the most unselfish artists I have ever met. They worked diligently to create a safe space in which to learn. There was ample time for instruction and work. As an educator of many years, I was so impressed with their ability to connect with each participant on a meaningful level. Each student left the workshop feeling as if they were a success. I know I did. I will forever be grateful and I would recommend them most highly.” - Tracy B., “Drawing the Self Portrait” Workshop Student, 2024