Celestial Art Studio
STUDENTS, who are we?
lara de beer
academic student
I highly recommend Celeste van der Merwe as an art teacher. She guided my daughter, Lara Meyer, through the Impaq Grade 10–12 Visual Arts curriculum, covering both theory and practical work with great skill and dedication. Lara achieved a matric distinction in Visual Arts, thanks to Celeste’s expert teaching and continuous support. Celeste is not only a gifted educator but also a warm, encouraging mentor who inspired Lara to reach her full potential. We have the fondest memories of our time with her, and Lara truly misses her classes.
reuben v d spuy
Celeste has been my son Reuben’s art tutor for many years and coached him from the basics up to doing his art GCSE. She has such a gift for helping kids grow in confidence and exploring their abilities. Reuben loved her as a tutor even though it was online across the ocean. Her patience and love made his learning so enjoyable. It’s no wonder he’s chosen to major in art and design at college. Celeste gave him the courage to develop his technique so that his art could have wings to fly. I highly recommend her as an art tutor. She is a gifted woman not just in art but in her ability to bring out the best in her students. Cadi van der Spuy, Surrey, England. 2025.
online student
sue nagel
adult student
I have been an adult student for two years. Our classes are small and intimate, with plenty of one on one time, which has allowed me to grow as an artist. The environment is conducive to relaxing into what ever process I'm learning. Celeste is very knowledgeable and very happy to share that with all her students. I have grown as an artist and now confidently participate in group exhibitions and sell much of my art. I absolutely recommend giving these classes a try.
jack millan
For the last three years, my autistic young adult son has been attending classes at Celestial Art Studio and the change in his confidence has been incredible.
Jack has a fiercely curious mind and a very unique way of seeing the world. His interests can be intensely focused, and social situations are often overwhelming. But Celeste and the entire class have met him with patience, kindness, and genuine understanding from day one. They’ve created a space where he feels safe, welcomed, and supported.
Celeste hasn’t just encouraged his niche artistic style, she’s gently guided him to try new mediums, experiment, and explore without fear. That kind of nurturing takes real care, and it has meant more to him (and to me) than I can express.
If you’re looking for an informed, supportive environment where you or your child can grow creatively at your own pace, Celestial Art Studios is exactly that place.
neurodivergent student
cammy buchanan
school to adult
Celeste’s classes laid the foundation of my entire art journey. Her knowledge is vast, her techniques transformative, and her ability to awaken creativity in others is unmatched. Under her guidance, I grew from a beginner seeking peace through art into an artist confident enough to sell my work, create merchandise, and support others. Celeste has taught thousands to find solace and expression through creation, and I am one of the many forever changed by her gift. To learn from her is to learn from a true professional. She is worth every penny, and if you are considering signing up then don’t hesitate. It will change your life.