Response to the last class

I made an elephant last week. At the end of class, a classmate came to me and told me that she liked my elephant. I felt flattered, because I have never expected that someone will like my artwork. I was surprised by her compliment. My first reaction was really?! Then I appreciated her compliment. It felt so great that someone liked my character. I thought it even helped me build self-esteem a little bit. Her compliment made me feel that she understood what I tried to express. I wonder whether clients will feel have the same feelings when I tell them that I like their artwork. If so, it's probably a good way to build rapport. However, I am not sure whether it's ok to tell clients I like their artwork?