Saturdays, 10 am - 12 pm. July 4, 11, 18, 25 (4 weeks)
$102 Members / $120 Non-Member + HST
Please note: Students supply the materials for their course- see Supplies List below description:
An understanding of the fundamentals and principals of perspective is mandatory for artists interested in representational drawing. Perspective drawing deals with how three-dimensional reality appears to the eye and how it is best represented on two dimensional surfaces such as a canvas, sketch pad, or an illustration board. Forms and structures of scenes and objects change their “look” from different viewpoints. During this course students will learn how to observe perspective phenomena and how to represent what they see on a piece of paper.
This course will be offered in three parts:
PART 2: A 4 week course in which students will learn and practice multiple point perspective.
Supply List:
2 Graphite Pencils of each: HB, 2B, 4B, and 6B.
Xacto knife #1 Precision Knife
Masking Tape Neutral color
Kneadable Artist eraser
Stadler Mars plastic eraser
1 drawing sketchbook 18” x 24”, suggested: Canson 65 lb
1 drawing sketchbook 11” x 14”, suggested: Canson 65 lb
1 ruler, suggested: wood 30”
Mondays, 7-9 pm. July 6, 13, 20, 27, August 10, 17 (6 weeks)
$153 Members /$180 non-members + $65 model & materials fee
To learn more about Akycha and her work, please visit:
https://www.buttonfactoryarts.ca/surette
This 6-week advanced ceramics course includes a life model sketching component followed by figurative and free sculpting components.
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. July 7, 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11 (6 weeks)
$153 Members /$180 non-members + HST
To learn more about Moumita and her work, please visit:
https://www.buttonfactoryarts.ca/roychowdhury
Step into the summer studio to learn watercolour and inks from the ground up through essential wash techniques, mark making, colour mixing and brushwork. Discover how water and colour interact, and learn to work with—not against—the natural movement of watercolour. This course will be a beginner‑friendly journey into watercolour and inks focusing on fluidity, layering, and expressive mark‑making.
Supplies List:
Watercolour paper (at least 140 lb), 9X12 or smaller. Can use a watercolour sketchbook as well.
1 round brush (medium), 1 round brush (small) and 1 Flat brush (1.5 inch)
Watercolour paints to include
A Warm Blue - Ultramarine/Cobalt Blue
A Cool Blue - Pthalo Blue
A Warm Red - Pyrrole/Cadmium Red
A Cool Red - Alizarin Crimson/Opera Pink
A Warm Yellow - Cadmium Yellow/ Nickel Azo Yellow/Indian Yellow
A cool Yellow - Lemon Yellow/ Hansa Yellow
A neutral - Indigo/Payne's Gray
A White gouache or gel pen for highlights
waterproof Micron Pens (0.5 mm and 1.0 mm)
Paper towels
Water containers
Palette for colour mixing
Masking tape (if you are using loose paper, not required for sketchbooks)
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. July 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26 (8 weeks)
Members $204 / non-members $240
Please note: Students supply the materials for their course- see Supplies List below.
Please note this is a combined level 1 & 2 course. New students are welcome and the basics will be covered. Returning students are welcome to continue progressing with further techniques. There will be a mix of individual and general instruction.
For new students:
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.
For returning students:
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
Alizarin Crimson
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.
Thursdays, 7-9 pm. July 9,16, 23, 30, August 6, 13, 20 (7 weeks)
$178.5 Members /$210 non-members + HST + $15 materials
In this 6-week course you will 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.
Fridays, 7-9 pm. July 10, 17, 24, August 7, 14, 21 (6 weeks)
$153 Members /$180 non-members +HST
Watercolour- Beginner
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.
Robert's style of instruction is a facilitative approach to art-making with individual support rather than a guided step-by-step directive style. He provides an environment for learning watercolour techniques by combining demonstration, showing relevant sample works, and suggesting choices regarding brushes, techniques etc. Individual support is offered to students during each class so their unique style of creativity can flourish. If you like to learn through the process of observation and experimentation in your art, this is a good class for you. If you prefer guided step-by-step instruction another course will suit your needs better. Please contact us for a recommendation.
Materials List:
Winsor Newton Cotman Sketchers Box 12 colours
Lemon Yellow, Cadmium Yellow, Cadmium Red, Alizarin Crimson, Ultramarine, Cerulean Blue, Viridian Green, Sap Green, Yellow Ochre, Burnt Sienna, Burnt Umber, Chinese White
Watercolor brushes round #12 or #10 and #6, and a flat 3/8" brush are all you will need. Taklon is a good synthetic. Sables are great. All brushes should bounce back to a point or their original shape. Wet them to find out. If they lie flat, not worth the trouble.
A palette (not plastic), ceramic is good, a white dinner plate will work
Paper: pad of cold press Strathmore Watercolour 300 or 400 series or other 140 lb or 300gm hot press wc paper made by Fabriano, Arches, BFK, or Johannot
For clean up and brush control, rags or a sponge are best as a means to control the amount of water in your brush. With a plastic bag for carrying
2 Yogurt containers for water
A fine spray mister (sprayer)
A pencil
A kneadable eraser
Saturdays, 10 am – 12 pm. July 11, 18, 25, August 8, 15, 22 (6 weeks)
Members $153 / non-members $180 + HST
In this course, we'll journey into nature's Summer beauty as we explore the techniques and nuances of painting with watercolour. Through regular visits to local parks and nature areas, 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. Jul. 13, 20, 27, Aug. 10, 17, 24 (6 weeks)
To learn more about Baz and their work, please visit:
https://www.buttonfactoryarts.ca/kanold
Ever wanted to start learning the joys of embroidery and stitching? Are you already an avid fan but want a place to get more creative? Join instructor Baz for a creative stitching course. This course will take you through some of the basics of embroidery, while introducing small assignments to help get your creative juices flowing. Together, we'll learn about everything from the basic embroidery stitches, all the way to using mixed media in your pieces to expand where embroidery can take you.
Supply list:
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. July 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18 (6 weeks)
To learn more about Brie and her work, please visit:
https://www.buttonfactoryarts.ca/mckenzie
Always loved a good short story? Then why not come and learn how to write one in a friendly and supportive environment? In the course, we will look at the core elements of a short story and cover all aspects of writing one, including how to generate story ideas, develop strong characters and create a plot that will keep your readers glued to the page.
Students are asked to bring their own writing materials, whether electronic or pen and paper.
Fridays, 7 - 9 pm. Jul. 17, 24, Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28 (6 weeks)
Want a class to try some new drawing materials and learn some new skills in drawing? This drawing sampler course will introduce you to a new material every week, and provide you with some basic skills in each of those mediums. This class is perfect for people of all skill levels, and provides a place to create in community while flexing some new muscles!
A drawing pad (9x12 or similar size, with approx. 24 sheets)
A 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
Pencil sharpener
A set of fine-tip ink markers (1 - 2 black markers of various tip sizes, but you’re welcome to bring more/colourful ones if you’d like!)
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. August 5, 12, 19, 26 (4 weeks)
Members $102 / non-members $120 +$ 30 Materials fee + HST
IVISIT the BUTTON FACTORY ARTS HOMEPAGE
LOCATION: 25 Regina Street South
Waterloo ON N2L1R8
Monday - Friday: 10 am - 7 pm
Saturday - Sunday: 10 am - 5 pm
CONTACT US:
519-886-4577
Membership and rentals:
operations@buttonfactoryarts.ca
Program inquiries:
programs@buttonfactoryarts.ca