About Hollyhock Studio


Cathy Nicholson is an educator and the founder of Hollyhock Studio.  She is also an artist who is committed to presenting workshops in a variety of art media.  All workshops follow a standard framework that is based on strong educational methods.  Finally, Hollyhock Studio is located on five beautiful acres near downtown Ashland, Oregon which provides great inspiration for the artistic senses.
Hollyhock Studio seeks Presenting Artists who normally do not reside in Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley.  Our local area is home to a large number of accomplished artists; many have expressed a desire for a fresh look at art study.  The chosen Presenting Artists have demonstrated exceptional talent in their field and possess strong instructional skills.  Hollyhock Studio works collaboratively with the Presenting Artist to develop a unique workshop experience for both the participants and the artist.

Hollyhock Studio organizes all workshops that follow a similar format:
  • The workshop is geared for small groups, no more than 8 students, and abilities are matched to the curriculum of the workshop. 
  • Pre workshop activities are included which support the technical concepts of the workshop curriculum.  Students are also invited to submit a pre workshop activity so serve as a baseline for post workshop growth.  The artist instructor will use this sample work to fine-tune the workshop curriculum.  
  • A Meet and Greet Artist reception, including snacks and drinks, provides students the opportunity to make connections prior to the workshop.   The Artist will provide personal information, including the art philosophy and growth as an artist.  Following the presentation the artist will present a demonstration as a preview to the workshop or other presentation that relates to their body of work or a preview of the workshop.   
  • Cathy will start each day with a series of mini lessons that support the workshop curriculum or other topics. 
  • Over three days (six hours; five hours of instruction & one hour for lunch) Artists/Instructors demonstrate technical concepts and then actively participates in guided practice providing one on one instruction and positive feedback. 
  • Participants can expect morning snacks and drinks as well as a delicious lunch, which is served on Cathy’s deck overlooking a beautiful valley.  
  • The workshop experience culminates with a post workshop session, which gives the participants opportunities to apply some of the newly found techniques.  
Hollyhock Studio is committed to bringing quality educational opportunities to artists of all levels and mediums.