Noel's Art Jane Goodman-Smith

Not only is Jane Goodman-Smith an extremely gifted artist, she is one of the most kind and mercy-hearted people I have ever met. Her concern for her students' welfare is very evident by her sensitivity toward every individual in her classes. My daughter took art lessons from Jane for a year, and even though my daughter was not particularly interested in the life-long disciplines of becoming a great artist, Jane was very patient, allowing my daughter to pursue her artistic ideas, while teaching her the skills. Much of the lesson time for my daughter was about the enjoyment of all the other students in the studio - social time - which, at the time, my daughter needed in a group setting. This speaks of Jane's character, that although she is very serious about art technique and discipline, Jane recognizes that social development is also taking place in young students. Her concern for a healthy environment is a necessity, as one or two disruptive students can be harmful to the group - all teachers know that they must have discernment for protecting their classroom environment. Although Jane is forbearing in disciplinary situations, she is able to make wise decisions when it is necessary, even when a student has to be asked to discontinue lessons. Any parent interested in art lessons for their child should be very confident that Jane will give their child a solid foundation in fine art, and a safe, pleasant studio experience for all.

If you are looking for a professional artist. Here is the place!! Jane spent a lifetime of learning the techniques of art from the best of artists. I have witnessed her skill over many years and attended many lessons. There is no price you can put on the knowledge she has. This unique art room is a one of a kind place. Where her skill and knowledge can be passed on to future generations. Each student is individualized, Jane gives her students the opportunity to choose the medium and picture which cultivates their interest giving them excitement about their project. She takes time with each student helping them with their artwork to show them the technique that is specific to their piece. That is how they learn the technique. Hopefully you, as I do, will discount spiteful ratings that come from unanimous sources who have for some reason wish to cause harm. If you would like accurate ratings please give Jane a call and ask for referrals. But get a huge piece of paper ready. As there are many!! Happy painting!!!!

After the unkindness shown my precious niece who has been through so much heartache and negativity already in her life, I would never recommend this class no matter how wonderful the artwork.

The teacher did not handle herself with sensitivity nor did she even attempt to do so. She readily knew of the PTSD from which the student suffers and what caused it. There was a much better way to handle, in love, a young impressionable student than the actions taken. Unacceptable. Judgmental and unkind.

Without talking to the child confidentially (after speaking to the parent) and giving her an opportunity to grow, the only thing she did was make the child feel even more horrible by cutting her off without a chance! (She called and said that she was not allowed to return to class because she had talked about what happened to her! The other parents might not let their students come, otherwise.)

Does Jane realize that if this child did not have the open support of family, the way she treated this student could have pushed her over the edge? Apparently, she has no clue how many young women and young men secretly suffer. What that little girl went through was not her fault!!! Talking about it with another student should not have been taboo!!!! Those who were in ear shot might have found that hearing and learning might just keep them from experiencing the same! Knowledge is power, not distasteful.

Art is more than what appears on the canvas! Teaching should be more than technique. This teacher, in my opinion, cares more about the Almighty Dollar than the growth of her students as a whole. Six weeks of lessons built zero relationship rapport. That's living proof in my book. To protect the child, I refrain from further details. I hope the teacher can reflect and think about the bullying effects and further pain she chose to inflict. There is a price to pay for our decisions as adults. Congratulations to her on making a sour one over a sweet. Money over a Life. Sad!