Fodder School Reviews
“Fodder School (FS) is the crème de la crème of online mixed media classes. I have taken many and very few measure up to the quality of FS. It has a unique format: first of the month, “make fodder” classes and 15th of the month “use fodder”classes (in which you use your fodder in a project). And the instructor is a different one every month. Videos are well done, info is clear and the whole thing is incredibly well organized. I may not love every single class but I learn something each time and always have new and interesting techniques to add to my arsenal! And did I say what an amazing value FS is? The price for all year art education is very very reasonable! On top of all of this the [optional] community hosted on Facebook is very welcoming, warm, supportive and friendly!! I highly highly recommend you sign up this very minute!”
-Susan E.
“I started my art journey a little over a year ago after a decades long break. I wanted to carve some time for art as self-care and to use some of the supplies I seem to collect. I like the casual and “no rules” approach of mixed media and quickly got whisked away in the Fodder School program. Each month offers thorough, detailed lessons and encourages you to use what you have and make it your own. Fodder School has been nothing short of life-changing by teaching me a variety of techniques and nurturing my abilities to grow my confidence as an artist. The community and bonus lessons are the icing on the cake for this program - and my only regret is not joining sooner. The enthusiasm and knowledge of each expertly chosen teacher is contagious and I continue to be surprised by the quality and depth of the projects I’ve created. Just when I think I couldn’t love a certain month more - the next month comes along and I get swept away into a new artistic obsession.”
-Kate M.
“I love the passion, the variety, the authenticity, the risk taking, the exploration, the soulful presentations, the fun, playfulness and tactile stimulation. All the presenters love what they do, are energetic, soulful and contagious. Wendy and Tiffany put their heart and soul into their continuous journey of helping creatives engage in their practice. There is so much to learn; it can be as complicated, cost effective or simple as you like. I love the repurposing of fodder as each project comes along. It is applicable to all people to give them the opportunity to invest in their creative path. Know that you make a difference in peoples lives!”
-Jaine B.
“All of my life I have wanted to study art. It wasn't until I retired that I have been able to do it. Fodder School is a blessing in my life. I love doing the monthly techniques and playing with them. I've stacks & stacks & stacks of fodder waiting to be used. Every time a friend comes through the door, I grab them and push them toward the studio saying ‘wait till you see what I've done!’ I don't always create monthly projects, but even when I do, I haven't yet posted them. This is part of the FREEDOM of Fodder School! There is no stress. I don't have to worry about a grade; all I have to do is ENJOY which I do. Each of the instructors, with their knowledge, talent, and willingness to share has enriched my life.”
-Carol W. (age 73!)
“Fodder School is THE BEST SCHOOL EVER for mixed media artists, whatever level we are at!!! I haven't done all the lessons Wendy but I view them all and enjoy them soooooo much. The bonus lessons make my heart sing... like a happy opera singer... lalalala!!!!
-Jane M.
“Fodder School is my favorite by far of all the online workshops I've taken. The amount of content is staggering, the teachers and projects diverse, and the online interactions with other participants and teachers always active and supportive. Fodder School provides me endless amounts of inspiration, ideas, and of course, collage fodder! I don't hesitate to join every year.”
-Jessica W.
“I had a “fodder bias” before I enrolled in Fodder school. I thought, “what am I ever going to do with this? Make a bunch of decorated paper that sits on the shelf?” Then I did the FS challenge last summer and I was humbled and converted! (Only in my own mind-no one came at me, lol). I love making fodder and would certainly marry it if I wasn’t already married. Current spouse comments how happy I am learning and completing these wonderful art projects. I’m challenged to try new things but feel capable of putting my own stamp on the projects too. It’s truly money well spent to join Fodder School. Dooooo it.”
-Julie P.
“Fodder School is so much more than mixed media art lessons, it is a community of open and sharing artists. I am a painter in watercolors and pastel. I wanted to open my mind to new ideas and ways of thinking about creating art. Fodder School has done that for me. I love the structure of class presentations and the care from the Wendy/ Tiffany team and teachers. Join… you won’t be sorry for a minute!”
-Eve I.
“Fodder School is my new BFF. Mixed media has fascinated me for years but I really never was able to integrate all the videos I watched into finished projects that made me happy. I'm well into Fodder School 1 and really appreciate the structure of each segment: simple techniques followed by an easily adaptable project. I like the self-pacing, the range of talented teachers and the inspiration I get from other participants.”
-Linda G.
“Fodder School is such a wonderful way to expand your creativity. Every lesson is a learning experience...and if you already use the techniques taught, up pops a fellow student that is sharing their project that is totally different! I love that the lessons are at your own pace and that they stay available online. I'm anxious to be starting my 3rd year in Fodder School....it's a blast!”
-Celia H.
“If you are searching for mixed media classes that will introduce you to an incredible diversity of techniques and instructors, Fodder School is the place to be! Couple that with an amazingly supportive worldwide community of fellow students, the enthusiasm and artistic talents of Wendy Solganik and Tiffany Sharpe and Fodder School can't be beat. Thank you Wendy and Tiffany!”
-Deb R.
“I'm a newbie to Fodder School but it has literally changed my creating experience! I feel that I now have tools and resources to help me reach the level I was trying to achieve on my own. I'm excited to create now and have a wealth of lessons available that will keep me busy! I appreciate the instructors and all their guidance. I never feel pressure and love that I'm finally using the ‘inventory’ that I have been collecting. My studio has exploded in the past month! I'm thrilled to be signed up for the Fodder School 3--especially as I'm facing empty nest. Fodder is the perfect distraction for my mind!”
-Denise W.
“Fodder School has allowed me to rediscover the artistic side of myself. It’s not just the amazing projects and the community and the fun, it’s the pure joy it brings when you unleash that childlike enthusiasm for play and colour. It’s given me bravery to express myself in a way I didn’t know I could. I can’t thank Wendy and Tiffany enough.”
-Clare S.
“I can't express enough how much Fodder School has meant to me throughout my journey of growing into an artist. When I first joined Fodder School, I was filled with doubts and insecurities about my abilities. Every month we are not only provided with valuable tips and techniques, but also delivered a sense of encouragement and belief in our potential. The community has been nothing short of amazing. Being honest, there were moments of frustration and self-doubt too. For example, the first Gelli prints I made in FS2 . After 3 months practicing repeatedly, I've discovered a passion for Gelli printing that I never knew existed. Keep up the fantastic work Wendy and Tiffany.”
-Christel K.
“Fodder School literally saved my sanity! I’ve been here from the beginning and honestly it is my safe place. It is what I do to quieten my anxiety and overactive brain. It brings me peace and joy in equal measure. I love the variety of classes and techniques, learning from all the different artists, the support from Wendy & Tiffany and the community that they have created with the School. The students (or my friends as I like to call them) range from complete beginners to established, well known, artists. There is no judgement and we are encouraged to share and made to feel validated. I don’t believe you would find that incredible mix with any other online offering. Fodder School is unique! I love it so much that I help with the moderating for all the [optional] Fodder School Groups.
-Lesley J.
“I used to just shop for creative things for my home, for gifts etc. I didn’t have the background to create the things I saw and loved. After 2.5 years of Fodder school and the summer challenges…I can say I am an artist. I’ve learned not only how to produce things with new techniques but also how to use a wide range of mediums. I had to be talked into year one by a friend who said though we live apart we will do it together. Well, she was right! I love it and will be there for year three making art and LOVING it!! Super supportive group and the coolest ideas.”
-Kathy M.
“I have taken quite a few year long classes…. I’ve weeded out the others. I think from this point on Fodder school will be the only one I stick with. The variety of projects and the enthusiasm of the instructors just make this a top notch class. The fact that you can work through the classes at your own pace is another huge bonus. Fodder Forever!!!!”
-Wanda C.
“Fodder School is such a delight! Wendy Solganik puts a lot of effort into providing a high quality well run experience for all level of artist. Fodder School feels very intimate. I’ve made friends in other parts of the world via Fodder School! I‘ve been a mixed media artist/lover for over 20 years. Fodder school still provides me with new & interesting concepts. It is such a joy to discover amazing teachers from all over the world (some in my backyard!) & learn their unique methods. I look forward with real excitement to the classes dropping every month. Fodder School is one of my happy places!”
-Poppy A.
“Fodder School blew the doors off my normal way of creating and I am forever grateful. The monthly topics have allowed me to experiment with techniques and take them in a direction I hadn’t anticipated. Fun stuff! I especially appreciate the lesson that focuses on creating with what you made! Brilliant! I haven’t gone deep on every lesson but it’s interesting how what I learn one month can be used months later. It’s a great learning experience without the pressure to be perfect. A huge thanks to the fabulous creators.”
-Sheryl H.
“So glad I did Fodder School 2, I have learned so many new techniques and became more confident in doing the projects each month. The instructional videos are wonderful and easy to understand. Anyone can follow them with ease the way they are presented. Oh and the cost is so reasonable, every month a new artist, well worth the cost of admission!”
-Dinie H.
“First of all it is a great opportunity to get to know artists from so many different places. That makes it unique to get to know and experiment different styles, techniques and even ways of thinking. I am a designer myself and believe it or not I also learned so much from Fodder School that I signed up for the next one. And like I always say...art is therapy and seeing all those instructors in their own environment takes you to a different level.”
— Terecita A.
“Fodder School is like a smorgasbord of Mixed Media techniques. There are artists and techniques I have loved, some I wasn't so sure about but loved when I tried them and some techniques I have wanted to try but may not use again. I have learnt a lot not only from each project completed but also from seeing everyone's work online and how different their interpretation is.
-Kaye S.
“Just catching up on your Show Up or Shut Up podcasts and listened to ‘The Fodder School Story,’ which was so interesting. FS1 and now FS2 have been such a gift to me. Between the pandemic, caring for an elderly parent, working on recovering from perfectionism, this has been an AMAZING HEALING journey not to mention incredibly fun and I’ve learned so much. THANK YOU and all the teachers. What an amazing community you’ve created.”
-Mary Ellen
“It would not be an exaggeration to say that Fodder School has been a life changing experience for me! I belonged to a local art group for many years that really dissolved during the pandemic and then I discovered Wendy and the Fodder School community which came into my life at the perfect time. I’ve always loved paper and feel like I have found my “ tribe” here in this group. These are the best art classes I’ve every taken- so well organized and clearly presented, and the instructors are so fun, talented and inspiring. I will feel forever grateful to have discovered this community.”
-Cynthia M.
“Oh, Fodderschool is the best course I ever took. I’ve never created as much as the year of Fodder School 1. So many techniques that I’ve learned with all the tutorials. Fabulous. It’s SIMPLY THE BEST!!!”
-Greti F
“I have taken other year long classes which were an absolute disappointment to say the least; I decided to try ONE more year long class, Fodder School 1. I have not been disappointed in the least and have learned so much about myself as an artist. The list of teachers was spectacular, the lessons were well paced and doable, the results were outstanding for each and every participant who delved in to the class. Two thumbs 👍 up.”
— Nancy B
Brilliantly organised
A visual treat every month
Inspirational and generous artists
Dedicated and responsive school leaders
Play, explore, create and connect with like -minded people all around the world
Get into the flow and grow!
-Jane B.
“Doing the large volume of work we have accomplished in this course has done amazing things for my art practice. I’ve found my style, my colors, my passions like never before. The pace of the course is somehow just perfect!! I’ve done every month and that’s never happened before in a year long course. I love that the instructors are there with us as students learning and playing… it is such a confidence builder. It’s not even a question that I’ll be signing up for Fodder School 2.”
— Chrissy M
“I adore fodder school! This is the best mixed media experience I’ve had ever! I loved meeting the instructors who are top notch, and making long distance friends! Getting into the flow of making art in Fodder School relieves stress and your worries about the world. Thank you especially to Wendy and Tiffany taking me along on this journey!”
— Donna F
“I have tried so many new things in the last year. Yesterday making ribbon and collage and today who knows. I need to make my card book. Wonderful variety of art , most all I’ve happily tried. I make time for Fodder School where I might not make art at all without it. I’m 80 now and have time to really create. Thank you all so much. I’m ready for Fodder School 3 and have a few friends joining me.”
-Sukey P.
“I’m a Fodder School student and it has been life changing for me and my mental health post-pandemic. Hugs!!”
-Erin D.
“Fodder School came at the perfect time for me. I was finally willing to explore my artistic side in new ways and through Fodder School I have found the courage to call myself an artist. I've been blown away by the depth of content and the supportive environment. I love that I have lifetime access because I haven't had a chance to play in year two as my own creative business has exploded. I rave about Fodder School to anyone who will listen, whether its the person helping me find products at my local art supply store or in my online creative groups. Its simply the best deal available in the virtual art class world.”
-Alison B.
“Firm believer in the value of this year long class ... so much to learn, great artists teaching, so much support in the group .. I’ve just signed up for my third year and looking forward to it!”
-Lesley S.
“Fodder School for me is about the creativity and community. Coming from traditional calligraphy, learning this style of mixed media has been freeing and relaxing. What precious gifts the teachers give to our Fodder community of creative play, confidence, joy, and permission to release ourselves from expectations and perfection. The best real life experience thus far has been attending a mixed media class at a local scrapbooking store and finding out that many of the participants were also part of Fodder School! We got to know each other through chatting and sharing about Fodder School... especially about how much we love Wendy and Tiffany and the carefully curated content at Fodder School! I am so grateful to be part of this inspirational community and like minded creatives! I can not wait for Fodder School 3!”
-Jane I.
“Fodder School gives me a chance to really stretch my creative muscles! The bite sized lessons are easy to fit in to busy days, I get to try new techniques, and it is a year or fun. Can not wait to sign up for #3!”
-Amy B.
I have been a Artist and Creative for most of my life. It is so much fun being part of a community of like minded creatives. It is nice to see new perspectives on techniques that I have done in the past but with a modern twist. As I visit every course expands my thinking. It is so freeing not to be locked into a standard way of doing things. Anything can be made into Art. I have always believed that Art is a story but without words. I am so excited to see my work evolve as I complete each course. Thank You, Fodder School and all the guest artist.
-Sandra A.
"Oh my goodness, where do I start? This would have to be the best course I've ever done . . . I don't want to stop."
-Cathy W.
"If you're not in Fodder School, you're missing out."
-Leona D.
"Joining Fodder School was the best choice I made for my art practice."
-@sarah.bird.studio
"I love Fodder School. I have learned something valuable and fun from every single instructor. I already know that I will enroll in [the next] Fodder School."
-Justine B.
"Dear people who have not signed up yet for FS . . . you will never regret attending on-line Fodder School. You will learn so much about art and having fun with it!!! If you don't feel quite like an artist when you start, you will be by the end! That's what happened for me . . . and I haven't even completed every course yet!!! Go at your own speed and just enjoy the process!!!"
-Jane M
“I just finished Fodder School 1, started Fodder School 2 and signed up for Fodder School 3. I have already gotten an unbelievable amount of ideas and learned so many techniques! My creativity is through the roof and I now make time to do something creative every day. The instructors are so engaging and give so much of themselves in the classes. So happy to have found these classes and the online community they have fostered.”
-Micha B.
"I've loved everything about it! The projects, the instructors, working at my own pace, learning new things, seeing everyone's interpretation of each project, the bonus lessons . . . so much to rave about!!"
-@Sojournbookarts
“I didn’t hear about Fodder School until it’s second year and I was nervous about starting Fodder School 2. I am not an experienced artist and I was worried about the cost and commitment. But I am SO GLAD I jumped in! The lessons every month are fresh and exciting and the community is supportive and friendly. My crafting supplies have grown almost as much as my confidence . If you’re on the fence, JUMP!!”
-Beth J.
"I love Fodder School! Before I signed up I thought it would be too much for me but not at all. It really fills me with joy watching the videos, finding ways to make my projects."
-@la_fee_uk
"Thank you, thank you, thank you to all the past and future teachers in Fodder School and to all the behind the scene workers keeping it running. What a feast of creativity! A full buffet of techniques! I am going at my own pace as I want to savour it all and life does get in the way every now and again. There is so much to learn and develop from each really full lesson. You teachers are so very generous with not only preparing the lessons, but taking time providing feedback as we post. My head is exploding with ideas and my heart is full. "
-Kaye S.