Capturing the likeness of a human subject is immensely gratifying, but no easy task. This absolute beginner portrait class is for those who may be curious about portrait drawing, but uncertain how to begin. You’ll receive the encouragement, knowledge and basic skills needed to create convincing renderings while exploring media such as pencil and charcoal. The instructor will provide weekly demonstrations and considerable individual instruction, all designed to give you the confidence to enter the world of portrait artistry. At least one previous drawing class is advised. Monday. *Please note: there will be no classes on October 8* Course Fee: $249 includes model fees. Limit: 15 students
Explore the treasures and challenges of drawing at Dundas Museum and Archives. Each week will feature something unique: exhibitions, pieces from the collection and the opportunity to explore local history through your artwork. From depicting the sharpness of a crease or the sheen of silk, to the challenges of light and shadow on faceted crystal, this unique class will provide both creative challenges and delight for those with a love of all things Dundas. Some drawing experience required. Classes held at Dundas Museum. Students must be annual members of the museum – memberships will be available for purchase at the first class. Friday. Course Fee: $295 Limit: 10 students
Click here for Class Material List
Together with your child, you’ll learn the basic techniques of working with this malleable medium. Explore coil and slab building as you form pinch pots and pitchers. You’ll then have a chance to create a final collaborative piece which you’ll glaze together and send to the kiln to be fired. Monday. *Please note: There will be no class on October 8* Course Fee: $239 Limit: 8 sets of 1 parent / 1 child
When registering one child and one adult, please add a quantity of 1 to your cart, use both the adult & child name to register, i.e. First Name "John and Jane" Last Name "Smith".
Available Spaces: 0
Learn to create an oil painting alla prima, in a single sitting, using oil paint. Alla prima is a method of painting in which pigments are laid on in a single application instead of being built up by repeated paintings. You’ll explore various ways oil paints can be manipulated and prepared for painting, how the marks of different brushes can describe objects, and how to deal simultaneously with problems of form, value and colour using just a few intentional brush strokes. Starting with oil sketching simple objects from life, students will move towards self-directed projects, at their own pace. Previous painting and drawing experience is recommended. Wednesday. Course Fee: $249 Limit: 15 students
Shake up your artistic concepts and learn to fully immerse yourself in the creative process of painting. Each week, a different project/subject will broaden your ideas of 'what to paint.’ Come with your painting kit and a willingness to be fearless and experiment. This is not a class for beginners, but it is suitable for all levels of artists looking for fresh inspiration. Acrylics will be used primarily – other mediums are welcome. Thursday. Course Fee: $285 Limit: 15 students
Transforming a blank page into a creative statement is a combination of intuition and a solid understanding of design principles. For example, how can a single line show light, shade, texture and emotion? In this essential course for artists and designers, we’ll address core principles such as how to create visual balance, contrast and tension and most importantly develop your personal way of seeing and communicating through the design of your art. Thursday. Course Fee: $199 Limit: 15 students
An exploration of the creations of women artists from Antiquity to the 20th century. Lectures are illustrated with slides and offer an entertaining, yet intelligent approach to art history. Friday. Course Fee: $259 Limit: 30 students
In this watercolour course based on traditional observation of the still-life, a new and attractive still-life will be presented every week. You’ll learn to observe and understand value and develop your watercolour skills and ideas. Drawing and composition will also be stressed. Demonstrations and constructive critiques are a feature of every class. Previous watercolour experience required. Wednesday. Course Fee: $285 Limit: 16 students
Immerse yourself in this spontaneous fabric painting technique. You’ll learn about using fabric dyes, how to apply them to natural fabrics such as silk, cotton and linen to create watercolour-like effects, and learn the finishing processes needed to complete your work. After a series of exploration on small samples, you’ll have the opportunity to paint a project of your choice such as a small wall hanging, furoshiki (a decorative wrapping) or scarf. Sunday. Course Fee: $185 includes a $30 material fee. Limit: 10 students
Available Spaces: 0
Join our “grand poobah” of watercolour, Bill Biddle, in his studio in Dunnville on Thursday and at DVSA on Friday to receive guidance and instruction on painting landscape and still life using a limited palette. Experienced painters only. Thursday & Friday. Course Fee: $149 Limit: 10 students
Grab your old film camera and spend a day getting back to the roots of photography as you explore subjects in monochrome splendour! We’ll review the work of notable black and white photographers and discuss the essential elements of creating a compelling visual statement in monochrome. Then we’ll take our own photos and move to the darkroom to process film and make your own b/w prints. Bring your digital camera, film camera (with film), lenses, tripod and any interesting objects to photograph. Saturday. Course Fee: $115 includes a $30 material fee. Limit: 9 students
Tired of mixing brown? Take 1, 2 or all 3 of these colour workshops and learn how to make the exact hue you want in these one day intensives that teach the basics of colour mixing and colour theory with fun exercises that use only three primary colours (red, yellow and blue, plus black and white). Acrylics or oils. Tonal Value and Gradation: Shadow, depth and volume are all created through the use of different shades of grey. Exercises include creating a greyscale, experiencing the magic of simultaneous contrast and rendering simple forms. Apply this insight to a small individual project using subtle gradations of value (from relative light to dark). Sunday. Course Fee: $79 Limit: 15 students
Abstract photography is about capturing something visually in a way it would not usually be viewed – the focus being on shape, contrast, colour, form, pattern and texture. In this one day workshop, we’ll define abstract photography, study examples that work and review key elements, techniques and challenges. A shooting session within walking distance of the school will be followed by a group share of our photo roll and a discussion of what worked and what didn’t. You’ll come away with a slew of new ideas and techniques designed to refine your photographer’s eye. Participants should have some basic photography knowledge. Bring your camera – DSLR, point & shoot or phone will do. Sunday. Course Fee: $79 Limit: 12 students
Spend an evening further developing your drawing foundational skills – either through a single workshop or a combination of these four uniquely focused workshops. Each in-depth session offers techniques, approaches and advice for drawing. Plenty of group and individual instruction provided. Drawing experience necessary. Light and Shadow: To visually define objects, it’s important to master rendering light and shadows. Explore the use of highlighting and shading, including hatching and crosshatching, to create the illusion of a third dimension. Monday. Course Fee: $45 Limit: 15 students
Observational drawing from actual plant specimens requires the artist to render the subject as accurately as possible. While there is room for personal expression, skill building for realism is essential to success in botanical art. Guided by Margaret, you’ll discover how to effectively draw a subject in graphite using seasonal ornamental gourds or dried sunflowers as subjects. All skill levels welcome. Tuesday. Course Fee: $159 Limit: 15 students
Illuminating a plant subject well to establish a full value range in depicting its 3-dimensionality is a critical skill for artists working realistically. From highlights to deep shadows, being able to see and render value shifts in a subject supports the composition, creates mood and the sense of reality in your work. Working from ornamental gourds or dried sunflowers, Margaret will demystify how this is accomplished and ensure your work has the “pop” so critical to botanical studies. For drawing with dimension, participants will be using graphite. All skill levels welcome. Wednesday. Course Fee: $159 Limit: 15 students
Discover a number if ways to illuminate your botanical specimen to your advantage. Are you looking to present a simplified view or more detail, a greater sense of depth or three dimensionality? Choosing how you light your subject affects all of these considerations. Working with ornamental gourds or dried sunflowers, Margaret takes you through what to consider and how to light and then render your subject to best effect. Choice of watercolour, coloured pencil or graphite. All skill levels welcome. Thursday & Friday. Course Fee: $299 Limit: 15 students
In partnership with OCAD U, DVSA offers a selection of online courses each term. Up to 8 credits from the OCAD U Online courses can be applied towards completion of DVSA’s Foundational Certificate Program. Registration must be done through DVSA. Students will receive their course log in information and network credentials by email directly from OCAD U one week before the course start date. For more information on OCAD U Online courses, visit this link.
Online courses are delivered through a series of tutorials and related assignments which students may complete at their own pace on our Learning Management System, Canvas. The instructor is available throughout the course time period for questions and discussions. Students will have access to Canvas one week before the course begins and two weeks after the course is complete. Please note that new students will receive their log in information and network credentials by email directly from our IT department one week before the course start date. If you do not receive your log in credentials, please check your spam folder and contact our office. Returning students can use the same credentials from previous courses.
Learn more about what to expect in an online course at OCAD U
For online Adobe classes, students are responsible for purchasing their own software for class. Trial versions of the software are sometimes available on the company website, but at this time there are no discounts available for Continuing Studies students.
*Regular access to a computer with a high-speed broadband internet connection is required. *
This is a hands-on, fast-paced course where students gain the technical skills to create sophisticated vector graphics for a range of art and design projects using Adobe Illustrator. This is a qualifying course towards the Certificate in Digital Media Skills. Thursdays. 6 weeks.
Investigate the dubious side of art – the forged masterpiece. Creating your own forgery doesn’t have to cost an exorbitant amount of money and a lot of the materials are found in a well-stocked kitchen. As we explore the processes involved, we’ll discuss some of history’s more memorable forgers: Tom Keating, Eric Hebborn and Han Van Meegeren are just a few of the art world’s more notorious swindling conmen/artists. In the afternoon, try your hand at creating a drawing based on a famous master and then learn how to “age” it. Will it pass for the real thing? Previous drawing experience recommended. Saturday. Course Fee: $79 Limit: 15 students
The creation of fine art photography comes through our expression and interpretation of light and time. This 1 day workshop focuses on understanding the qualities and characteristics of light and colour as seen through time. A combination of lecture, hands-on, and image critique make up the day as we explore how recording images originating from light communicate ideas, express emotion, and tell stories. Participants need to bring their DSLR Cameras and a USB stick with 3 samples of their current work. Saturday. Course Fee: $79 Limit: 12 students
Tired of mixing brown? Take 1, 2 or all 3 of these colour workshops and learn how to make the exact hue you want in these one day intensives that teach the basics of colour mixing and colour theory with fun exercises that use only three primary colours (red, yellow and blue, plus black and white). Acrylics or oils. Complementary Pairs and Semi-Neutrals: When true complements are mixed, a neutral grey results. Exercises include making colour charts of saturated, complementary pairs to show their harmonious range of desaturated hues. Apply this insight to a small individual composition, using complementary hues and their wondrous semi-neutrals. Sunday. Course Fee: $79 Limit: 15 students
If you’re an absolute beginner artist, this course offers the encouraging hand-hold you’ve been looking for. Jump (even if tentatively) into a new creative world of colour and personal fulfillment. Discover what it is to feel good about the process of painting as you receive an introduction to the basics of watercolour and acrylic painting, along with enlightening discussions about drawing and composition. Come get your feet (and canvases) wet and take the first steps on your painterly and artistic journey. All materials provided – just show up and let it happen. Tuesday. Course Fee: $219 Limit: 15 students
If you’re an absolute beginner artist, this course offers the encouraging hand-hold you’ve been looking for. Jump (even if tentatively) into a new creative world of colour and personal fulfillment. Discover what it is to feel good about the process of painting as you receive an introduction to the basics of watercolour and acrylic painting, along with enlightening discussions about drawing and composition. Come get your feet (and canvases) wet and take the first steps on your painterly and artistic journey. All materials provided – just show up and let it happen. Wednesday. Course Fee: $219 Limit: 15 students
New projects for Fall! Combining fabric and paper in your collage projects will create new three dimensional possibilities and fascinating textures. Using a combination of fabric and paper materials, we’ll also incorporate paints to alter the materials, inspired by historical and contemporary artists using this medium. No experience required. All new projects mean returning students can continue to build on their skills. Wednesday. Course Fee: $185 includes a $10 material fee. Limit: 15 students
Further your figure drawing technique with part 2, featuring longer model poses and a focus on developing drawing skills to represent a more closely observed human form. This accessible approach will reveal a rich understanding of what it is to properly draw the human body. Poses will be of 60 minute, 2.5 hours and 5 hour duration. Ample group and individual instruction provided. All levels welcome. Friday. Course Fee: $215 includes model fee. Limit: 15 students
Click here for Class Material List
Sometimes artists just need to loosen up. This once-a-month drop-in life drawing and painting workshop features “adult libations,” a prime spot in front of a life (nude) model, and the opportunity to unwind from the week as you settle in to draw or paint. Working with instructor Ward Shipman, hone your skills through short sketches and longer poses. Instruction provided, as needed. Ideal for beginners to advanced artists. Licensed cash bar with light snacks available. Friday. Course Fee: $20 per session Limit: 30 students Please note: We are unable to provide refunds/credits/transfers for this course.
Join us for a low-key evening as you experiment with watercolour techniques (wet over wet, wet over dry, pastel resist, salt technique and blending) and create a mixed-media abstract painting and/or cards using your own intuition and creative freedom. No experience necessary and all levels welcome. Licensed cash bar with light snacks available. Bring some brushes and a basic set of watercolours. Friday. Course Fee: $20 per session Limit: 20 students. Please note: We are unable to provide refunds/credits/transfers for this course.
In this comprehensive workshop, participants will gain a solid base in techniques and best practices for using wax. We will cover current approaches to setting up an efficient studio, health and safety concerns, and accessing tools and materials. Participants will gain skills in encaustic brushwork and fusing, layering and glazing, as well as, developing smooth and textured surfaces. We will also cover how to make encaustic paint. Sunday. Course Fee: $175 includes a $20 material fee. Limit: 12 students
Frustrated with the camera controls and menus on your digital point and shoot, mirrorless compact or digital DSLR? This workshop is designed to help you understand how your camera works, making sense of the buttons and thumbwheels so photography is “a snap”! Fully understand your camera’s settings and modes plus learn about photo essentials such as exposure, shutter-speeds, apertures, ISO, focusing and best lighting practices. Plenty of practical demonstrations and hands-on camera time will give you more confidence when artfully shooting vacation memories, special events and more. Bring your camera, lenses and accessories. Sunday. Course Fee: $79 Limit 12 students
Available Spaces: 0
A course for those seeking more information on the technical aspects of oil painting, you’ll learn how to build a stronger foundation for creative expression and gain a better understanding of the use of materials. We’ll explore the depiction of light and shadow, painting techniques, the nature of colour, colour mixing and theory and making decisions about composition and space. Discover the techniques of glazing – the step-by-step method of working from foundational sketches and mapping-out of ideas, creating underpaintings and then building wet on wet glazing techniques to create works of enriched depth and lustre. Monday. Course Fee: $149 Limit: 15 students
Learn how to construct and shape the human figure in clay using a life model for reference. No previous sculpture experience necessary, but students should have some basic drawing experience. All facets of the modelling process and figure sculpture technique will be demonstrated and discussed. There’s plenty of group and individual instruction included. Monday. Course Fee: $259 includes a $20 material fee, firing fee and 1 bag of clay. Limit: 10 students
Available Spaces: 0
Create your own stunning geometric pendant using bold shapes. Working with sheets of sterling silver, we’ll design jewellery art that incorporate clean lines as well as the contrast and play between positive and negative space. Sawing, soldering, filing and finishing will all be employed to create a statement pendant that can be strung and worn around your neck. All materials and tools supplied. Tuesday. Course Fee: $205 includes a $45 material fee. Limit: 12 students
In partnership with OCAD U, DVSA offers a selection of online courses each term. Up to 8 credits from the OCAD U Online courses can be applied towards completion of DVSA’s Foundational Certificate Program. Registration must be done through DVSA. Students will receive their course log in information and network credentials by email directly from OCAD U one week before the course start date. For more information on OCAD U Online courses, visit this link.
Online courses are delivered through a series of tutorials and related assignments which students may complete at their own pace on our Learning Management System, Canvas. The instructor is available throughout the course time period for questions and discussions. Students will have access to Canvas one week before the course begins and two weeks after the course is complete. Please note that new students will receive their log in information and network credentials by email directly from our IT department one week before the course start date. If you do not receive your log in credentials, please check your spam folder and contact our office. Returning students can use the same credentials from previous courses.
Learn more about what to expect in an online course at OCAD U
For online Adobe classes, students are responsible for purchasing their own software for class. Trial versions of the software are sometimes available on the company website, but at this time there are no discounts available for Continuing Studies students.
*Regular access to a computer with a high-speed broadband internet connection is required. *
This course is geared for artists, designers, illustrators, and animators who wish to sharpen or refresh their hand drawing skills. Building on students' knowledge of basic drawing elements, such as line, shape, value, and composition, this course expands the student's observational and technical skills to create accurate drawings of architecture, nature, and the human form. This course qualifies for the Certificate in Art and Design Studio Skills. Tuesdays. 6 weeks.
Students are responsible for purchasing their own supplies. Supply List will be available soon.
Working with sterling silver sheet and using various surface treatments, you’ll create a unique trio of slender wrist cuffs of your own design. Work with a selection of hand tools and learn traditional fabrication techniques such as sawing, shaping and soldering to create works of art for your wrist that are sure to draw attention every time you slip them on. All tools and materials supplied. Thursday. Course Fee: $205 includes a $45 material fee. Limit: 12 students
Available Spaces: 0
Drawing the human form remains a mainstay of art schools as it is an excellent method for developing your drawing abilities and improving your eye as a visual artist. In this absolute beginner life drawing class, you’ll learn to develop the figure from the inside out. Starting with the rudimentary armature of the gesture drawing, you’ll explore building the figure in a clear step by step process. There’s plenty of encouragement and support as you acquire the skills you need to discover the joys and challenges of life drawing. With demonstrations and considerable individual instruction, you just may have the confidence to next try a full life drawing course. At least one previous drawing class is advised. Monday. Course Fee: $185 Limit: 15 students
In partnership with OCAD U, DVSA offers a selection of online courses each term. Up to 8 credits from the OCAD U Online courses can be applied towards completion of DVSA’s Foundational Certificate Program. Registration must be done through DVSA. Students will receive their course log in information and network credentials by email directly from OCAD U one week before the course start date. For more information on OCAD U Online courses, visit this link.
Online courses are delivered through a series of tutorials and related assignments which students may complete at their own pace on our Learning Management System, Canvas. The instructor is available throughout the course time period for questions and discussions. Students will have access to Canvas one week before the course begins and two weeks after the course is complete. Please note that new students will receive their log in information and network credentials by email directly from our IT department one week before the course start date. If you do not receive your log in credentials, please check your spam folder and contact our office. Returning students can use the same credentials from previous courses.
Learn more about what to expect in an online course at OCAD U
For online Adobe classes, students are responsible for purchasing their own software for class. Trial versions of the software are sometimes available on the company website, but at this time there are no discounts available for Continuing Studies students.
*Regular access to a computer with a high-speed broadband internet connection is required. *
This is a hands-on, fast-paced course where students gain the technical skills to create motion graphics, animation, and special effects for video. Courses are held at OCAD U using the latest software. Prerequisite: basic knowledge of Adobe Photoshop is required. CSDM 1N38, Introduction to Adobe Photoshop is recommended. This course qualifies for the Certificate in Digital Media Skills. Tuesdays. 6 weeks.
Curious about the art of printmaking, but feeling hesitant about the unknowns of this traditional technique? This one day workshop offers encouragement and simple, easy-to-follow steps for the absolute beginner printmaker. Spend a day in the print studio getting a feel for the process and working with various water-based print methods including mono-printing, silkscreening and relief techniques. After this warm-up session, you may feel ready to bring your ideas to a full beginners’ printmaking class. All materials included. Saturday. Course Fee: $99 includes a $15 material fee. Limit: 12 students
Spend a day drawing the fully developed musculature of the male figure. Our guest model, a body builder, offers a unique opportunity to review anatomy fundamentals and articulate those main muscle groups as you develop drawings in your preferred medium. Some life drawing experience is recommended. Sunday. Course Fee: $99 includes model fee. Limit: 15 students
The potential of raku, post firing, is extraordinary. Learn how reduction and oxidation affect the colours of various types of raku glazes and how to best treat your work to get the desired effect. Explore glaze crackle in white and some coloured glazes using compressed air. Using horse hair will also be demonstrated. Students should bring 7-8 small bisque fired pots to class and 3 bisque fired pots with white slip. Any studio clay is fine, but raku is recommended. Sunday. Course Fee: $119 includes a $20 glaze fee Limit: 10 students
An invigorating workshop for watercolourists of all levels. Discover how fall colours and their interpretation translate into vibrant, exciting compositions. We’ll explore new and proven techniques and examine atmospheric perspective through colour and colour mixing. A hands-on approach throughout is sure to please all styles of learners! Sunday. Course Fee: $79 Limit: 15 students
Light up the winter holidays with your own stained glass ornament. In this beginner level workshop, we’ll cover the basic steps of creating a beautiful stained glass piece you can share with someone special this holiday season (or keep it for yourself!). Explore the properties of glass with its many textures and colours and learn the essential techniques of working with the medium to make a striking piece of festive glass art. All tools and materials will be provided. Sunday. Course Fee: $119 includes a $35 material fee. Limit: 10 students
Available Spaces: 0
Cold wax has translucent qualities that allows light to penetrate into the paint surface while emphasizing a rich vibrant colour, depth and tone. This workshop is for the innovative artist interested in optimizing the use of cold wax through experimentation with texture, colour and medium. Subject matter preference can be realistic or abstract. Sunday. Course Fee: $105 includes a $20 material fee. Limit: 15 students
Wondering if the art of pottery is for you? Spend the day “pottering” in our ceramics studio and find out. You’ll get to explore working with slabs, coils and the wheel as you determine if this hands-on medium might be for you. Absolutely no experience required and clay and materials are all provided. Just show up and let it happen. Warning: pottery can be very addictive... Sunday. Course Fee: $95 (Includes clay) Limit: 15 students
Wondering if the art of pottery is for you? Spend the day “pottering” in our ceramics studio and find out. You’ll get to explore working with slabs, coils and the wheel as you determine if this hands-on medium might be for you. Absolutely no experience required and clay and materials are all provided. Just show up and let it happen. Warning: pottery can be very addictive... Saturday. Course Fee: $95 (Includes clay) Limit: 15 students