The start of fall always brings a burst of creative inspiration! Students are stocking up on supplies, desks are being organized, and pencils are sharpened…it’s the ideal time to get started on a new project. So, with that in mind, we figured why not offer an artsy curriculum to follow so you can make use of the new season, no matter how long you’ve been out of school? These workshops across Metro Vancouver and Whistler will have you considering new perspectives, honing old skills, and meeting fellow creatives. So roll up your sleeves, put on a smock, and bring a snack to trade at the break; it’s time to reignite your artistic side!
Textured Art Workshop – Daytime Sessions | Vancouver
Saturdays and Sundays until Nov 9
New to textured art? This hands-on workshop will show you all the basics! Join instructor Mercedes for a fantastic beginner lesson where you’ll explore simple shapes, add colors, and more, all in a cozy studio space. No experience needed, just bring your curiosity!
Photo credit: atelier758.com
Continuing Watercolour: October Term | Vancouver’s North Shore
Saturdays, Oct 18 – Nov 8
One of Vancouver’s North Shore’s top community spots for learning and expression, North Van Arts is dedicated to building artistic skills and creative connections. This watercolour painting workshop is a great intro course if you’re new to the canvas and might benefit from a bit of guidance. Instructor Sophia is a terrific guide to building on composition, perspective, and colour theory.
Photo credit: northvanarts.ca
Life Drawing Series: Body Positivity, Diversity & Inclusivity | Vancouver’s North Shore
Sundays, Sep 7 – Nov 30
Another stop at North Van Arts, this time for life drawing! With a model in the centre of the room, you’ll join your fellow artists in studying and sketching the human form. Featuring professional models who pose unclothed, with an emphasis on diversity in age, gender, and body shape, this course shows the diverse beauty of human beings.
Photo credit: northvanarts.ca
Try it! Ebru: Paint Marbling on Paper | Burnaby
November 7
Join artist/instructor Suheda Sahin in learning about the captivating art of Ebru! An ancient art form, also known as Turkish marbling, in which colourful dyes are sprinkled on water and then transferred to paper. This technique was commonly used to decorate book covers, calligraphy, and other crafts. The process of working with water and colour is often seen as a form of meditation and mental relaxation. The fluid patterns and colours moving on the water’s surface are viewed as reflections of the artist’s emotions and the natural flow of life.
Photo credit: Zephyris, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Guided Life Drawing | Surrey
November 29
Study the human figure by recreating the subtle nuances of each pose with live models in a professional studio environment. You’ll be led by experienced art educators and practicing artists who will give thoughtful direction. A helpful workshop for artists of any level looking to improve their craft!
Photo credit: surrey.ca
Drawing with Oil and Chalk Pastels | Surrey
Wednesdays, Sep 24 – Oct 29
Using pastels gives a genuinely tactile feel to creating artistic work! If you’ve never felt that connection to the canvas, this is a superb workshop to start with. Each session will teach you tips and techniques to create different effects using oil and chalk pastels. Operated by the Semiahmoo Arts Society, this workshop will offer a creative bridge to your work that you might not expect!
Credit: pexels.com
Adult Acrylic Painting 101 | Whistler
October 23 + 30
Already have a bit of experience with painting, sketching, or mixed media? This course is a great launchpad for anyone with an established artistic direction. You’ll learn to cultivate your creative flow by experimenting with texture, layering, and mark-making in an encouraging environment with a friendly and knowledgeable instructor. A fantastic option for any artist looking to find a new muse!
Credit: andrealikesart.com