2026 Community Open Studio

Below is a list of courses for which you can enroll. To see more information about course status or to register for the course/workshop, click on the course title.

Nov 27 - Community Open Studio: Peer Critique w/ Ciel Ellis, SFCA

COMMUNITY OPEN STUDIO: PEER CRITIQUE WITH CIEL ELLIS, SFCA

Friday, Nov 27, 2026 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Peer Critique is back for an evening of in-person discussion, connection, and artistic exchange with Ciel Ellis, SFCA.

Join the Federation of Canadian Artists for an evening of constructive feedback, artistic growth, and community connection at our Peer Critique Community Open Studio. Hosted by senior Signature members, experienced artists and instructors, this supportive, artist-led session invites participants to bring their artwork for thoughtful discussion and critique among fellow artists.

Whether you're preparing work for exhibition, seeking a fresh perspective on a piece in progress, or looking to strengthen your practice through meaningful dialogue, this open studio provides a welcoming environment to share your work and engage with other artists.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Bring 1 artwork for group critique

• Receive constructive feedback in a supportive, peer-based environment

• Connect and network with fellow artists

• Gain insights from experienced juror and instructor Ciel Ellis, SFCA

• Enjoy a relaxed and encouraging studio atmosphere

This event is open to artists of all skill levels. Space is limited to ensure each participant has an opportunity to receive meaningful feedback. Participants are encouraged to attend the full duration of the event and contribute to the peer critique of other artists' work.

About THE FACILITATOR Ciel Ellis

All my life, I could never shake the feeling that I experienced things differently than others, that my emotions, preferences, and sensitivities were closer to the surface. I now see this as one of my greatest gifts.

My paintings begin in the dirt, literally, as I tend the many exotic roses, peonies, and tulips that I grow, nurturing the potential that is developing.

Making my art engages me with beauty. I see and feel deeply nourished by the subjects that I paint, unlike anything else I've experienced.

The making of art is really about completing a relationship between the light and darkness of my subjects, which reflects the creative process and serves as a metaphor for the human experience.

The work of Georgia O'Keeffe, Thomas Darnell, Mickie Acierno, Gerry Thompson, Sandy Terry, Renato Mucillo, Simon Barlow, Robert LeMay, Grazyna Wolski, and Jenny Fusca are among the artists who inspire me. In studying these artists, I discovered a window into realism and sensuality, key elements I aim to explore in my own work.

ABOUT THE FACILITATOR: DIANDRA SUMMERTON

Facilitated by Diandra Summerton, Fine Art Consultant and Founder of The Art Index Collective. Diandra began her professional relationship with the Federation of Canadian Artists as a Fine Art Consultant in 2022, was honoured with the Federation's Newcomer of the Year Award in 2023, and continues to support its community through the Community Open Studio program. She is also a member of the Canadian branch of the International Watercolor Society.

Nov 20 - Community Open Studio: Life Drawing (Art Therapy Edition)

Community Open Studio: Life Drawing (Art Therapy Edition)

Join the Federation of Canadian Artists, NOOD Life Drawing, and IMI Art Therapy for a unique life-drawing experience that combines observational drawing with guided reflection on identity, body image, and self-confidence. Working from a live nude model, participants will move beyond traditional figure drawing to explore how we see ourselves and others through creative prompts, expressive mark-making, and personal reflection. Led by experienced life-drawing host Ann of NOOD and Iram Shariff (MA in Design Studies and Student Arts Therapist) of IMI Art Therapy, this welcoming, non-judgmental session is open to adults of all artistic experience levels. No drawing experience is necessary, and sharing personal reflections is always optional. Participants will leave with their own artwork and a fresh perspective on the relationship between observation, self-perception, and self-expression. Please note that this is an art-therapy-informed group wellness experience, not individual psychotherapy. Art materials are not included.

Session Flow:

Time Phase Purpose

0–10 min Welcome Introduce the collaboration and set groupagreements

10–30 min Look Short poses; observation without judgment

30–45 min Experience Drawing the figure as a person, not just a form

45–60 min Reflect Quick symbolic drawings exploring identity

60–75 min Transform Adding personal strengths and qualities to the work

75–85 min Integrate A private written reflection beside the artwork

85–90 min Closing A shared moment of looking; thanks to the model

Artists of all skill levels are welcome. Bring your favourite drawing materials and enjoy three hours of uninstructed life drawing, along with complimentary wine and light refreshments. A limited number of easels and basic supplies will be available, though participants are encouraged to bring their own materials whenever possible.

Community Open Studio is about more than drawing. It's an opportunity to connect with other artists, share ideas, and be part of the FCA's vibrant creative community in a supportive and social setting.

Date: Friday, November 20th, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: FCA Flex Space Studio, 1310 Johnston Street, Vancouver, BC
Registration: BY DONATION

We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of creativity, community, and life drawing.

Presented by the Federation of Canadian Artists in collaboration with NOOD Life Drawing.

Event Hosting is done by Diandra Summerton, Fine Art Consultant and Founder of The Art Index Collective. Diandra began her professional relationship with the Federation of Canadian Artists as a Fine Art Consultant in 2022, was honoured with the Federation's Newcomer of the Year Award in 2023, and continues to support its community through the Community Open Studio program. She is also a member of the Canadian branch of the International Watercolor Society.