Visual Arts

Our earliest drawings are of the human face, as are some of the greatest works of art. Through the use of live models this course incorporates a mixed media approach to portraiture. Working with contour drawing, tonal studies, colour wash and collage students explore the physical, psychological and spiritual elements of this popular subject. Suitable for all levels.Note: Please bring a 6B pencil and a 14"x17" sketchpad to first class.

An introduction to non-representational painting principles using acrylic paint. Experiment with materials and a variety of conceptual and technical approaches to abstract painting. Based on the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, you will explore the use of colour, shapes, line and texture. Abstract techniques and systems will be included, with the emphasis on technical skills and personal expression.Note: A supply list will be e-mailed prior to start of class.

Explore varied techniques of acrylic painting. Demonstrations and exercises provide technical information in mixing, colour theory, preparation, gesso and brush selection. This course references master and contemporary painters to build a studied approach to acrylic painting. Note: A supply list will be e-mailed prior to start of class.

Explore the process of assemblage and create sculpture. Each class we review a famous artist, such as Pablo Picasso or Joseph Cornell, for methods, materials and colour influence. Students then directly apply these aspects to works of their own. Through these guided exercises students are encouraged to incorporate found objects and explore various mediums. No previous experience necessary.Note: A supply list will be e-mailed prior to start of class.

For the prospective Illustration student learn to see and draw more believable figures by exploring the structure of proportion, balance, gesture and value from an artistic perspective. Working with line drawing, tonal studies and colour wash you will develop visual awareness and gain confidence in interpreting the fascinating human figure from life models. Note: Bring pad of 18" x 24" cartridge paper (not folded), two bull clips and drawing pencil or conte stick to first class.

Discover the methods and techniques of oil painting developed by the masters: Da Vinci, Vermeer and Rembrandt. Through in-class demonstrations, students acquire skills and techniques to enrich their artwork. Slide lectures illustrate the fundamentals of tone, color, composition and materials while guiding students through the systematic process of copying master works. Note: A supply list will be e-mailed prior to start of class.

This beginner level course introduces the basic materials and techniques of watercolour painting, including basic drawing skills. Explore glazing and wet-on-wet techniques, flat and graded washes as well as colour, value and composition. This course includes lectures and demonstrations with plenty of time dedicated to painting, and helpful one-on-one guidance from the instructor. Note: A supply list will be e-mailed prior to start of class.

Illustration is Visual Communications of an idea, a story, a message which appears in editorial, advertising and publishing media. But it begins with drawing. In this ten week foundation-level course in the new Commercial Illustration program we'll develop your drawing to clearly communicate your own ideas through strong composition, an understanding of perspective and familiarity with different materials. Note: A supply list will be emailed prior to start of class

Create sweet-smelling textural paintings using molten beeswax and non-toxic encaustic waxes. Learn a range of faux-encaustic techniques using wax enriched with mixed media ephemera, colour, photographs, plaster and metallics. Have fun exploring your creativity while developing your understanding of the elements and principles of composition. A supply list will be e-mailed prior to start of class.Note: A supply list will be emailed prior to start of class

Transform your digital photographs and prints into unique hand-painted fine art paintings. Learn mixed media techniques and applications using watercolour, acrylic, pastel and other mediums and materials. Explore the ever growing range of new-age archival papers and products which allow digital images to be altered to create original fine art. For beginner and experienced artists alike. Note: A supply list will be e-mailed prior to start of class.

In this course, students will learn a variety of techniques to be able to visually communicate what they want to achieve. How to tackle and problem solve different media and to understand there properties and effectiveness. The ability to create a successful value rendering and to translate with use of limited color. Students will also learn to make intelligent colour decisions based on known illustration principles.Note: A supply list will be emailed prior to start of class.