Mondays, 4:30 - 6:30 pm. Nov 4, 18, 25, Dec 2, 9, 16. (6 weeks)
EB $175/Reg $185
Please note: Students supply the materials for their course- see Supplies List below description:
Elevate your oil painting skills to new heights in our Intermediate Level Course, where we'll delve into mastering the technique of creating texture through analyzing a source image and the layering process.
In this immersive journey into the world of oil painting, you will explore the intricacies of analyzing source images, establishing a harmonious palette, and mastering the art of layering. Guided by an experienced instructor, you'll learn how to transform your visions into stunning works of art, infused with depth, dimension, and vibrant color.
Throughout the course, you'll explore the transformative power of layering, discovering how to apply multiple layers of oil paint to create dynamic compositions that captivate the imagination. From subtle shifts in tone and texture to bold contrasts of light and shadow, you'll learn how to breathe life into your artwork with each carefully crafted layer.
But mastering oil painting isn't just about technique – it's about understanding the nuances of color mixing and composition, and how to use them to convey emotion and narrative in your work. Through a series of hands-on exercises and demonstrations, you'll gain the confidence to experiment with color and form, pushing the boundaries of your creativity with each stroke of the brush.
Whether you're a seasoned artist looking to refine your skills or a passionate learner eager to take your art to the next level, this course offers something for everyone. Join me and unlock the secrets of oil painting mastery, as you discover the joy of bringing your artistic visions to life on canvas.
Supply List
Oil Paints: 37ml tubes of Winton Oil Colour:
Titanium White
Ivory Black
Burnt Sienna
Yellow Ochre
Viridian Hue
Permanent green light
Phthalo Blue
French Ultramarine
Cadmium Red Deep Hue
Cadmium Yellow Pale Hue
Paint brushes:
Flat brushes, #1, 4, 8, and 12.
Palette Cup
Medium:
Linseed oil
Turpentine
Canvas or Painting Surface:
Stretched Canvas, 11” x 14”
Canva-Paper; an economical alternative to canvas
Rags or Paper Towels: These are essential for wiping brushes, cleaning up spills, and creating texture in the paint.
Palette Sealable Container: Useful for storing and preserving leftover paint for future use.
Brush Cleaner: A gentle brush cleaner is needed for cleaning brushes after painting.
Sketching Materials: Pencils, charcoal, or other sketching materials are useful for planning and sketching out the composition before applying paint.
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Nov 19, 26, Dec 3, 10, 17
Adv $150/Reg $160 + $30 materials fee
Saturdays, 10 am – 12 pm. Jan 4, 11, 18, 25, Feb 1, 8 (6 weeks).
Adv $175/Reg $185
In this course, we'll journey into nature's winter beauty as we explore the techniques and nuances of painting with watercolour. Through regular visits to local parks and nature areas, (yes, even if it's snowing!) we'll capture our own source images via camera, and then take them back to the studio for inspiration and reference. Through the practices, you'll learn to harness the transformative power of watercolour as we delve into representing the breathtaking landscapes and scenes that surround us. Through a series of hands-on demonstrations and exercises, you'll master essential watercolour techniques and washes, honing your skills with each brushstroke. This course is about more than just experiencing the medium – it's about developing a keen eye and a deeper understanding of colour, light, and shadow. By observing and capturing the subtle gradations of natural light, you'll enhance your sight skills, laying a strong foundation for your journey as a visual artist. Dig into the world of color observation as we explore the darkness, brightness, warmth, and coolness of diverse tonal values found in the ever-changing light of daylight. Through thoughtful analysis and practice, you'll learn to discern and replicate these tonal variations, refining your ability to capture the essence of your surroundings on paper. Join me on this artistic adventure as we blend creativity with the beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist seeking inspiration, this course offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and unleash your creativity.
Supplies:
1- Cotman Watercolour set
2- Mixed head type and sizes watercolour paint brush; Flat, round, and fine
3- Watercolour Paper block. About 8 x 10 inches or any similar sizes
4- Small water container
5- Rag or paper towel
6- Small size drawing board
7- Camera for reference shots (phone is fine!)
Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. Jan 6, 13, 20, 27, Feb 3, 10 (6 weeks)
EB $175/Reg $185 + 15 materials fee
Please note: Students supply the basic materials for their course and a small materials fee for specialized pastel paper & fixative, provided by the course)
see Supplies List below description:
Learn the basic approaches to Soft Pastel Art. This thorough introduction covers the material side of Soft Pastels, related art materials and techniques. Pastel artwork is considered a drawing medium but it's versatility allows painterly effects to be developed. Drawing skill is an asset but not required. Several methods of Pastel application will be explored resulting in the completion of 3 - 4 landscape works of art.
Materials List:
Recommended Brands: sold in sets or individual sticks: Holbein Artist Pastels, Rembrandt Soft Pastels, Diane Townsend Thinline or Soft Forms.
If you own any artist grade dry (soft) Pastels they will be appropriate for use. Pastel Pencils are useful but a set of Pastel sticks is required.
Please note that the Pastels in this course are NOT Oil Pastels.
Adv $175/Reg $185 plus $60 model fee.
Learn the basics of how to capture the beauty and movement of the human figure. Using a model, we will draw different timed poses from 1 minute to 1 hour to break down how to better represent figures on a page. Whether this is your first time picking up a pencil or you've done figure drawing in the past, this is for you!
Please note: Students supply the materials for their course- see Supplies List below:
Drawing Board (~24 inches)
- Pad of Newsprint (~18 x 24 inches)
- Conte (preferably with brown tones as well as black/white)
- Pencil set
- Kneadable eraser
Tuesdays, 1- 3 pm. Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11 (6 weeks).
Adv $175/Reg $185 + $30 materials fee
Learn the basics or improve your skills in two dimensional needle felting and wet felting with wool. You’ll be guided, through demonstration and instruction, in the creation of a woodland scene using the needle felting technique and a local urban scene in wet felting. All required tools and materials will be supplied to help you interpret reference photos supplied by the instructors. As well, you’ll learn how to enhance your work with stitch, bead, and textile accents. This introduction to felting is suitable for all levels of artistic experience. No prior experience in any medium is required, though experienced artists and artisans will be able to bring their specific skill set and experience to the projects as well.
Tuesdays, 1 - 3 pm. Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11 (6 weeks).
Our lives are full of many experiences, many stories. Have you ever dreamt of sharing these with others in a memoir?
Join us for our 6 week Memory to Memoir Writing course where we’ll explore how you can turn your personal story into a well crafted memoir. In a safe and supportive environment we’ll look at a variety of topics, ranging from memoir vs autobiography, to navigating sensitive subjects, to the importance of theme, to creating images in writing, and everything in between.
Each week participants will be encouraged to try their hand at small exercises to help them develop their own “writing muscles” and unique style.
Please bring pen, paper, laptop, whatever your preference for writing.
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11. (6 weeks).
This is a great class for students with a bit of painting experience interested in discovering more about acrylic painting. Working at their own pace, students will explore the use of acrylic paints, brushes and acrylic mediums while they develop and improve their painting techniques and learn to paint in their own style, whether it be landscape, fantasy or abstract.
Supplies list:
Paint:
Preferred list of colours:
Brushes:
Canvases:
Other materials:
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11 (6 weeks).
Adv $175/Reg $185 + $15 materials fee
Learn the basics of machine-sewing from loading a bobbin to trouble- shooting a jammed machine! Participants will make a customized tote bag and a bonus project (or two) if time allows. No experience is necessary.
Wednesdays, 1- 3 pm. Jan 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12 (6 weeks)
Learn the basics of painting traditional landscapes and a still life composition with watercolours. Extend your painting techniques using black ink and dry media with watercolours and explore a path towards self expression with gestural painting and abstraction.
Watercolour Explorations Supply List – Winter 2025
Lesson 1-4 you will need basic watercolour painting supplies. Lesson 5&6 we will add mixed media such as watercolour crayons, watercolour pencil crayons, black sumi ink, permanent ink drawing markers and Japanese washi paper (kozo or mulberry).
Washi paper
I have some practice paper. Some kozo paper may be available for purchase from Button Factory Arts.
Watercolour Paints
Watercolour tubes are preferred but pans can be used. If you already have watercolour paints, bring them and try them out.
If you are buying individual paint colours, at a minimum buy one cool blue, one cool red and one clear yellow. Cotman by Winsor Newton is a good quality student brand to start.
Primary blue such as cobalt and/or ultramarine blue, primary red such as rose madder, permanent rose or alizaren crimson, primary yellow such as aureolin yellow, lemon yellow or cadmium yellow
You may wish to add the following colours to your palette: Burnt sienna, Sap Green, New Gamboge or pick your favourite colours to try.
Watercolour Brushes
At a minimum you will need one flat and one medium sized round watercolour brush.
1/2”, 1” flat synthetic brushes, the longer bristled brushes are preferred
Size 12, 8, 4 round synthetic watercolour brushes
Optional brushes to add later: Rigger brush, size 1 round for fine lines, fan brush, wash brush for large areas
Watercolour Paper
140 pound cold press watercolour paper. I recommended Strathmore 300 series, Fabriano 1264 pads or other brands are suitable. The high rag content will tolerate scrubbing and washing. For the lessons you will need two pieces of paper roughly 8x10 size (or 1/8 sheet) per class. I use a steel edged ruler for cutting sheets.
Palette
You need something to mix your paints on. A white plastic plate (8-10in) will work. You can buy a round or rectangular palette with lid to transport and reuse your paints. Avoid coloured, paper or Styrofoam plates.
Backboard
A hard surface waterproof board to place your paper on when painting. This will be propped up on a slight angle. A corrugated plastic core sign board slightly bigger than your paper is light weight and reasonably priced. A plain white colour is best.
Water containers & cleanup
Bring 2 containers to hold clean water. Tissues, paper towels or rags are needed to catch puddles, lift paint and for clean up.
I use a medium spray water spray bottle as a tool for applying water to paper. Mine was from Dollarama.
Bring some photos or magazine pictures for inspiration. A sketch pad and pencil will be useful for planning your painting and taking notes. You are welcome to bring a camera to take photos of my demos.
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Jan 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12 (6 weeks).
EB $175/ Reg $185
In this course students practice the fundamentals of oil painting through a series of exciting and rewarding experiences. The course begins with familiarizing students with the basic materials used in oil painting, such as oil paints, brushes, canvases, palette knives, and palettes. Students learn how to set up a palette, arranging colors logically for easy access during the painting process. Practices start with simple subjects or still life arrangements for beginners. This allows students to focus on foundational skills without the complexity of more intricate subjects. One of the main practices in this course is experimenting the importance of underpainting by sketching and then creating a monochromatic underpainting where students are able to establish values and composition. Preparing the base or underpainting and having knowledge of mediums such as linseed oil or turpentine are essential practices for art students learning oil painting techniques. Following the theory of the complementary colors, students experiment mixing colors on their palettes to understand how different hues can be achieved. Students also practice with a wide-range brushes and techniques to achieve different textures experimenting the variety of brushwork and strokes that can be used in oil painting, from broad strokes to fine details. By Introducing students to famous oil paintings and artists they would encourage to practice on fundamental oil painting techniques, such as blending, layering, glazing, and impasto. At the end of each session students will be asked to conduct regular critiques where they can discuss their work, share insights, and receive constructive feedback, that fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment.
Explore the gratifying process of watercolour in this beginner’s course. Learn to mix colours, use various brush techniques, find out about paper, and through repetition will gain confidence working with this medium. No previous experience is necessary.
Winsor Newton Cotman Sketchers Box 12 colours
Watercolor brushes round #10, and #6. Taklon is a good synthetic. Sables are great.
Paper: pad of Strathmore Watercolour 300 series or other 140 lb or 300gm cold press watercolour paper
For clean-up and brush control, rags are best as a means to control the amount of water in your brush (with a plastic bag for carrying)
Thursdays, 1 - 3 pm. Jan 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb 6, 13 (6 weeks).
Thursdays, 7 - 9 pm. Jan 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb 6, 13 (6 weeks)
Over six weeks, this course will develop your abilities at storytelling through a self- initiated concept, to your final project. We will look at technical elements, such as lighting, composition of not just a single image but the story as a whole, exposure, final presentation, as well as non-photographic factors that build a successful narrative; this will include topics such as social interpretation/ communication of your subject, photographer/subject relationships. An in-class presentation, with a brief introduction, will be given by each student on the final evening.
Fridays, 7 - 9 pm. Jan 10, 17, 24, 31, Feb 7, 14 (6 weeks).
In this six-week course, you will learn the basics of observational drawing. Learn different techniques like cross-hatching, blending, and contour drawing with an emphasis on drawing from life. Together we’ll gain new knowledge on how to capture different textures, fabrics, and 3D shapes in shades of grey. With introductions to new materials every week, join us in starting your journey in drawing, or strengthen your current practice.
Supplies List:
Tuesdays, 1 - 3 pm. Feb 18, 25, Mar 4, 18, 25, Apr 1 (6 weeks)
EB $175/Reg $185 + $30 materials
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 18, 25, Mar 4, 18, 25, Apr 1 (6 weeks).
As the days grow longer, and we move toward spring, let’s get together and create beautiful wool scenes of flowers and trees. We’ll use the needle felting technique to create a floral depiction in wool and wet felting to make a woodland landscape. All the required tools and materials will be supplied to you and demonstration and direct instruction will allow you to interpret reference photos supplied by the instructors. You’ll also learn how to make use of textiles, stitch work and beading to enhance your creations. No prior experience in any medium is required, though experienced artists and artisans will be able to bring their specific skill set and experience to the projects as well.
Learn how to decipher a commercial sewing pattern. Sizing, cutting, pinning, and marking will be covered in this course. Participants will put their new skills to work to make an apron/work smock.
Supply List: Pattern & Fabric
Wednesdays, 1 - 3 pm. Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 19, 26, Apr 2 (6 weeks).
EB $175/Reg $185 + $15 materials fee
Please note: Students supply the basic materials for their course (see Supplies List below description), and the course provides Artist Quality Sanded Pastel Paper, Liquid All Natural Odor Free Fixative and Compressed Charcoal )
The abstract language follows a tradition of invention and Interpretation.
The course objective is to develop the concept of abstraction from source materials.
Soft pastel’s tactile nature and basic supply / material requirements are an ideal entry into the journey of exploring abstraction.
Initial colour studies from thumbnail sketches will progress in stages to the completion of larger works. This process, based on utilizing the Principles and Elements of Art is transferable to other mediums.
You will receive a 4 pg outline detailing How to Abstract, The Principles and Elements of Art, Composition Strategies, Ideas on Colour Studies in addition to Creating Larger Work and Self Critiquing.
Supply List Required
*Please note that the Pastels in this course are NOT Oil Pastels.
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 19, 26, Apr 2. (6 weeks)
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm, Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 19, 26, Apr 2 (6 weeks)
In this class, you’ll learn foundational watercolour painting skills and the knowledge of values, colour theory and composition. We will work with reference photos to recreate vibrant sunsets, reflections and scenes that capture light effectively.
Watercolour paper (140lb or higher) can be sketchbook or loose paper
Board to fix the paper on
Masking tape for fixing paper on board
Pencil, Eraser for sketching
Watercolour paint brushes – 1 round brush (medium), 1 round (fine tip), 1 flat brush
Roll of paper towels or cotton rags
Container of water and spray bottle if you have one
Watercolour paints, colours should include:
Thursdays, 1 - 3 pm. Feb 20, 27, Mar 6, 20, 27, Apr 3 (6 weeks).
Thursdays, 1 - 3 pm. Feb 20, 27, Mar 6, 20, 27, Apr 3, 10. (7 weeks).
EB $235/Reg $255 + $25 materials
In this 7-week course, learn to make various functional and decorative pottery forms using slab, pinch pot, and sculpting techniques. You will also learn about surface decoration- carving, adding elements, and glazing.
Thursdays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 20, 27, Mar 6, 20, 27, Apr 3 (6 weeks).
The abstract language follows a tradition of invention and Interpretation. The course objective is to develop the concept of abstraction from source materials. Soft pastel’s tactile nature and basic supply / material requirements are an ideal entry into the journey of exploring abstraction. Initial colour studies from thumbnail sketches will progress in stages to the completion of larger works. This process, based on utilizing the Principles and Elements of Art is transferable to other mediums.
Supply List Required :
Fridays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 21, 28, Mar 7, 21, 28, Apr 4 (6 weeks)
If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at an age-old practice of drawing portraiture, this course is the perfect choice for you. Over six weeks, we will be learning how to simplify and understand the human face, as well as practicing tips and tricks make your portraits stand out. While this class will have an emphasis on self-portraiture and working from life, we will also have chances to work from photograph. Whether you want to learn realism, or develop your own style, this class will nurture your creativity and have you creating portraits you love.
SUPPLY LIST:
Set of drawing pencils (At least four pencils: HB, 3B, 2H, B – the set should read similar to these, but they don’t need to be exactly that)
Eraser
Saturdays, 10 - 12 pm. Feb 22, Mar 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
EB $175 / Reg $185 + $30 materials
Want to explore a range of Printmaking techniques? Try your hand at Collagraphy, Block and Cyano printing, Monoprinting and Botanical prints.
Feb 22 - BOTANICAL PRINT with Anne Williamson
Mar 1 - POCHOIR with Elizabeth Forrest
Mar 8 - BLOCK PRINT with Susha Suresh
Mar 15 - COLLAGRAPHY with Nancy Peng
Mar 22 - COLLAGRAPHY with Nancy Peng
Mar 29 - CYANO PRINT with Kate Short
Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 24, Mar 3, 17, 24, 31, Apr 7 (6 weeks).
EB $175/Reg $185 plus $60 model fee.
Alongside learning painting techniques, this course will also go more into how to better capture skin tones and colours through paint. Using a model, increase your skill at representing the human form and find your own unique style!
2 canvas boards (just canvas wrapped board) ~ 11 x 14 or bigger
1 stretched canvas
Paint of choice (acrylic and/or oil) -- at least with black, white, blue, red, and yellow (preferably ultramarine blue, alizarin crimson, and cadmium yellow but any will be fine)
If oil, please also bring oil medium of choice (e.g., linseed oil) and gamsol
Set of brushes -- at least 1 small (~half an inch) and 2 larger (1 inch+)
reusable or tear-away palette
Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. Feb 24, Mar 3, 17, 24, 31 (6 weeks).
