Townsend Atelier is a community treasure. Peggy and Stan have created an artistic environment that nurtures the growth of artists. This has led to more fine art in and around Chattanooga.The atelier brings world-class artist instructors to Chattanooga, who share their knowledge with the students in the Ateliers workshops. This caliber of instruction is not available in most cities. Students travel to Chattanooga from all over the Southeast, and sometimes even beyond, to participate in these workshops.Personally, I have made much more progress in my art work than I would have made without the atelier. Thank you so much, Peggy and Stan!

Ive always wanted to take a class offered by the Townsend Atelier, but living in Kentucky made it very difficult. Then, I was able to take an online beginners oil painting class taught by John McLeod. It was terrific! He was very clear and informative and taught in a way that made it instantly understandable what he wanted to convey. On top of that, he was entertaining, engaging and encouraging. Townsend Atelier is very organized and professional in teaching art classes. I highly recommend!

I have been both a student and an instructor at Townsend Atelier and couldnt ask for a better experience from either perspective. Peggy and Stan Townsend go above and beyond to make sure everyone is welcome in their warm and friendly space and to provide each student with what he or she needs. Theres an incredible range of courses and presentations to interest any artist from beginner to expert; the instructors, whether local, national or international are of the highest caliber and meet each student at their own level. The studio itself is a gorgeous space - lots of room to work, with great light. and theres an on-site store for convenience. The Atelier is a hub of Chattanoogas rather special art world. If youre traveling from out of the area you will come away with a great art experience and a new art home.

Nick Runge taught an online portrait class in watercolor, which was a stretch for me. I loved the graphic style of the sample photo and signed up. Was not disappointed. He was very well prepared, and Peggy was there with us to help with admin details, getting on Zoom, etc. Nicks teaching was excellent. The camera work was great too. As a class on Zoom, we were able to get much closer views of his work in progress and palette than for a normal in-person class, and the sound was excellent too. If I had travelled to San Francisco to attend a class with Nick (or to Tennessee at Townsend Studio) I would have spent at least $2,000, and pack a big suitcase. Online was much better, and his critiques were gentle and on point. Would recommend.

My friend and I planned to take an in person workshop through Townsend Atelier with Katherine Kehoe. We were excited to get to TN but then the pandemic hit. Peggy reinvented her studio experience to Zoom and the class was fantastic. So intimate and I felt like I got even more attention than I would had I been there in person. I think it came down to how Peggy reinvented her workshops with Zoom. What a great experience. Peggy is extremely knowledgeable and professional and she makes available an interesting array of artists to learn from. Ive already taken a second workshop through her Atelier. I highly recommend!

As a workshop instructor, I have found a favorite place to teach in Townsend Atelier. From its beautiful building, ideal location and excellent vibe, Townsend creates an atmosphere that is both inspiring and relaxing. As an instructor I dont want my students to feel intimidated by their surroundings, especially when first starting a creative path, but Townsend Atelier is warm and welcoming to all. Peggy takes care of us like family and makes the entire experience smooth, professional and so much fun.

As both an instructor and student of Townsend Atelier, I can say they are such a pleasure to work with, and offer very high-quality courses in the visual fine arts. Peggy is wonderful and really puts in the extra effort to make every one of their courses special. They have a beautiful studio near downtown Chattanooga, which is a charming city, and I look forward to traveling there again either to teach or attend a workshop. Thanks Peggy!

Wanted to do a workshop with Hollis Dunlap, so when Townsend Atelier offered one via zoom, I jumped at the chance. Terrific workshop!Besides booking great talent--artists and models--Peggy does an amazing job. Shes committed to offering the best experience for every student. I actually messed up typing in my email address and she was SO helpful, very responsive. Ive taken workshops through other studios and this level of organization and follow-through isnt always the case.

I am so thankful to have this gem in our town, and if I lived elsewhere I would travel for the workshops. I am amazed at the skill and ability I have been able to cultivate at the weekend workshops, whether it be painting, drawing, or sculpture. Every single instructor, local and out of town, has been world class and has made a huge impact on my artistic pursuits! Thank you to the Townsends for creating such a special atelier!

OIL PAINTING FOUNDATIONS WITH JOHN McLEOD, a Zoom class, was the perfect introduction to oil painting. Through thoughtful didactic presentations, supportive assignment critiques and beautiful demonstrations of painting concepts and technique, John skillfully opened a wide door for a painting beginner. I expect these lessons, as well as Johns mantras Painting is hard. and You can do it. to remain my painting foundations.

Attended an in-person drawing class with Angela Cunningham and an online class with Chris Groves. Townsend Atelier employs talented artists who are also gifted teachers. Thanks Peggy for your high standards, your cool space and the southern venue for community and education.

An amazing place to learn whether you are just starting out or you are an advanced painter. Chattanooga is incredibly lucky to have the all star lineup of artists that come to Townsend Atelier to teach and Stan and Peggy Townsend go out of their way to ensure you have the best learning experience possible!

Townsend Atelier offers safe, in person and online art instruction by local and international artists. They also have art supplies on site. Check out the website for upcoming classes.

Townsend Atelier offers access to some of the finest artists in the world. As an artist myself I highly recommend them.

I loved my oil painting class with John! I learned so much and feel like I have skills to build on. I’m still very much a beginner and that was totally ok. I’m signed up for more!

Peggy was amazingly fun and proficient in hosting the latest workshop with Nicolas Uribe. She was on top of all the internet and communications and questions that always go along with every workshop. Id do another one at Townsend Atelier anytime!

Love taking classes with Townsend! Peggy is so helpful and the quality of the classes is so good, its always a great experience

Lots of talented artists who are generous and very sharing. Peggy does a great job.

Highly recommend Peggy for all your painting needs. She is knowledgeable, and provided great customer service! Peggy, you are a 5star!