Program Reviews

My daughter attended the summer program at Cow Shed Studios this past summer which completely exceeded all our expectations. The experience could not have been more positive, enriching and particularly critical for this crossroads of an age when kids are faced with so many social pressures and academic decisions. From an art perspective, my daughter expanded her horizons with the various art techniques and mediums that were taught from skilled artists/mentors at the school, who not only encouraged her to push her limits, but who had a meaningful impact on making her believe in herself and feeling safe and comfortable in being the person who is she. In only a few short weeks, we noticed a notable boost to her confidence and level of maturity that has clearly served her well entering her senior year and embracing the next stage to come. Rosie and Frank have established a magical place in a gorgeous corner of Ireland that not only attracts like-minded students, but also draws exceptionally talented, compassionate and fun staff members who each played an important role in this amazing experience. We are beyond grateful to Rosie, Frank and the staff for bringing out the soul, heart and free-spirit of our daughter. Can't recommend this program enough!

My daughter spent a month at Cow House Studios in July and had a life-changing experience. She developed new skills and perspectives artistically and also made wonderful friendships. Living together with other students on the farm was a special experience that gave her a new appreciation for the natural world. Rosie and Frank create a welcoming and safe space for the students to explore with different mediums and concepts, challenge themselves, and grow as artists and humans. As part of the program, they also traveled to different places in Ireland for day trips - galleries, museums, cities, beach, forest, etc. - which added to the overall experience. I highly recommend this immersive program for any high school student interested in developing as an artist.

My daughter attended this program over the summer of 2023 and I couldn't recommend this program more highly based on her experiences. From the warm, safe environment to the freedom to explore artistically, it could not have been a better fit. Her confidence as an artist grew, she made great friends, and the planned excursions allowed her to explore a beautiful country. The instructors were supportive and communicative, which made the entire process easy. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could!

As a parent of a participant in this program, I highly recommend Art on The Farm. Rosie and Frank and all of the teachers/artists foster a community where the students are able to learn from highly skilled artists, create a portfolio and explore different mediums while living in a warm and supportive community. The beautiful setting, the family style dinners, the freedom to explore the area and create friendships is a gift. Rosie and Frank have created an oasis for young artists to learn, grow and experience a truly immersive artistic experience.

I can honestly say that my time at Cowhouse gave me one of the most fulfilling and exciting summers of my life! Rosie, Frank, Caitriona, the visiting artists, and interns were some of the loveliest and most beautiful people I’ve ever met. It may be cliché to say, but I don’t think I would be the same person I am today without this experience. I grew in my artistic ability and as a person - I learned to better appreciate the world around me and everything in it. I can’t wait to come back for a visit the next time I’m in Ireland. Thank you so much for everything Rosie and Frank!

My 17-year-old daughter spent the summer of 2022 at Art on The Farm at Cowhouse Studies. Over the years both of my daughters have done various summer programs but this one will stand out as one of the most unique and fulfilling experiences for my younger daughter. Rosie and Frank were some of the most welcoming, encouraging, and helpful mentors. My daughter completed an extensive amount of work and also explored a number of different mediums. The atmosphere was lively but relaxed and the setting was inspiring. She felt that her artistic abilities really improved and the program helped her decide to pursue art as part of her future studies. Along with the art program, the food was terrific and the excursions to Wexford, Dublin, Hook Peninsula, etc. gave students time to explore and learn about art and Ireland outside of the farm. My daughter made friends with like-minded students that she is still in close contact with today. Overall, this was an unforgettable experience.

Our 17 year daughter had a wonderful experience this past summer at Cowhouse Studios, Art on the Farm. After 2 years of pandemic lockdowns and isolation, the program was just what she needed. Rosie, Frank and the staff were outstanding. They challenge the kids artistically through an "art school" like format. The studios and the campus are beautiful and our in the country. They managed and negotiated some pandemic issues very well. Overall our daughter grew as an artist and as person in a supportive, progressive environment. We couldn't ask for much more.

Spending 12 weeks of my life fully dedicating myself to making art was such a beautiful self-discovery process. At Cow House I had my own studio and there were many different art supplies to use and try out. Rosie and Frank were the best program directors I could've asked for—I actually felt like they were part of my family!

The best part of Cow House was spending time in the studio, lighting up the fire, going on weekly trips, having dinner at Frank and Rosie's house, and (of course) eating Caitriona's food (it reads Catrina btw… Irish names can be a bit confusing).

Cow House changed my life and made me realize that visual art is part of my essence and that I should always make time to make art.

Go Raibh Maith Agat to Cow House Studios, Rosie, Frank, Folly, Caitriona, Laurette, Rosie's parents, the boys, and to the whole cohort <3

Frank and Rosie were the nicest people to spend three months with. The space they created on the farm made everyone feel at home and allowed so much creativity in the group. The studio had every art supply you could need, and I spent my time in the darkroom where Frank helped me so much. Critiques allowed the students to get direct feedback from both Rosie, Frank and the other students, which I found to be very helpful. Caitriona makes lunch and dinner for us, and the food could not have been better, I enjoyed every single meal at Cow House! Rosie and Frank made a great group to spend time with. I ended up learning so much from the people around me and making life long friends. I would reccomend this program to anyone who loves art or is searching for something to be passionate about.

Our 18 year old daughter spent 3 months in Wexford at Cow House Studios
as part of her gap year before Cambridge. She´s always been a good
student and an eager learner. Her Cow House experience was the most
valuable preparation for her future that I can imagine. Frank and Rosie
are astute, intelligent and supportive critics. They are kind and
generous with their time and the seemingly limitless resources of the
studio. In a beautiful corner of southern Ireland, in handsomely
restored buildings, they work, they hang out, they eat (very well), they
travel, and they meet an impressive array of local artists who share
their passions and perspectives. Cata left Cow House with a very close
group of friends, pride in their progress and the work that they had all
done, and a deep affection for the people of Cow House and Ireland. I
only wish her elder siblings had known of it.