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.
Sept 20 - FCA Pop Up Art Market III
Cost: By DonationFCA Pop Up Art Market III– Vendor Applications Open
The Federation of Canadian Artists is excited to present our Fall Pop Up Art Market, a one-day celebration of creativity, community, and independent artists.
Taking place on Sunday, September 20 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the FCA Flex Space Studio on Granville Island, this market will feature a curated selection of artists, makers, and creatives showcasing original artwork, ceramics, jewelry, prints, textiles, handcrafted goods, and more.
Whether you're an established artist, emerging maker, or creative entrepreneur, this is an opportunity to connect with art lovers, engage with the local creative community, and share your work in one of Vancouver's most vibrant arts destinations.
We are seeking vendors whose work reflects originality, quality craftsmanship, and artistic excellence. Space is limited, and applications will be reviewed to ensure a diverse and engaging market experience for attendees.
Vendor Application Timeline
Applications Open: Now
Application Deadline: July 31
Vendor Notifications Sent By: August 21
Market Date: Sunday, September 20, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Market Location
FCA Flex Space Studio
1310 Johnston Street
Vancouver, BC
We welcome applications from FCA members and non-members working across a wide range of artistic disciplines. Any donations will go towards supporting our community open studio initiatives.
Join us for an inspiring day of art, community, and creative exchange at the FCA Pop Up Art Market.
Apply by filling out this form to be considered as a vendor.
Aug 28 - Peer Critique (online) with Ciel Ellis, SFCA
Cost: By Donation
Peer Critique with Ciel Ellis, SFCA (Online)
Friday, August 28 | 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Online via Zoom | Join from Anywhere
Continue your artistic journey from the comfort of your own studio with the Federation of Canadian Artists' Online Peer Critique, facilitated by accomplished artist and SFCA member Ciel Ellis.
Whether you're developing a new series, preparing work for an exhibition, or simply looking for fresh perspectives, this welcoming online session provides an opportunity to receive thoughtful, constructive feedback while connecting with artists from across Canada and beyond.
Designed to encourage artistic growth in a supportive environment, participants are invited to share one artwork and engage in meaningful discussion that strengthens both their creative practice and critical eye.
What to Expect
• Share 1 artwork for group critique
• Receive constructive, respectful feedback from fellow artists
• Learn from experienced artist and juror Ciel Ellis, SFCA
• Connect with artists from anywhere through a live Zoom session
• Develop confidence in discussing and evaluating artwork
This session is open to artists of all skill levels. To ensure every participant has adequate time to present their work, space is limited. We encourage participants to attend for the full three-hour session and contribute to the discussion by offering thoughtful feedback to fellow artists.
About 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.
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.
Aug 21 - Community Open Studio: Life Drawing & Wine VII (Duet Model Edition)
Cost: By Donation
Community Open Studio: Life Drawing & Duet Pose VII
Spend an evening drawing from life in a relaxed, welcoming studio environment at the Federation of Canadian Artists' Community Open Studio.
This month's session features a duet pose presented in collaboration with NOOD Life Drawing, giving artists the opportunity to study two models interacting through a series of dynamic poses. Whether you're looking to strengthen your figure drawing skills, explore gesture and composition, or simply enjoy a creative night out, this session offers an inspiring space to create alongside fellow artists.
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, August 21, 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.
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.
Sept 18 - Community Open Studio: Life Drawing & Wine (Butoh Dance Performance)
Cost: By Donation
Community Open Studio: Life Drawing & Wine (Butoh Dance Performance)
Spend an evening drawing from life in a relaxed, welcoming studio environment at the Federation of Canadian Artists' Community Open Studio.
This month's session features a Allison Lang from Kokoro Dance Company presented in collaboration with NOOD Life Drawing. This session will be giving artists the opportunity to sketch and draw a Butoh dance performance. Whether you're looking to strengthen your figure drawing skills, explore gesture and composition, or simply enjoy a creative night out, this session offers an inspiring space to create alongside fellow artists.
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, September 18, 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.
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.
Sept 25 - Community Open Studio: Peer Critique with Jennifer Heine, SFCA
Cost: By Donation
Peer Critique: Community Open Studio with Jennifer Heine(SFCA)
Friday, September 25th, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
FCA Flex Space Studio | 1310 Johnston Street, Vancouver
Peer Critique is back with a new facilitatory, Jennifer Heine, SFCA, to the FCA Flex Space Studio for an evening of in-person discussion, connection, and artistic exchange. 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 SFCA member and Linda Bell, 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 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 professional artist Jennifer Heine, 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. It is also suggested that all participants come for the entire duration of the event and contribute towards the peer critique of other artists work.
About the Artist: Jennifer Heine, SFCA
Jennifer finds inspiration in everyday alchemy: glimpses of beauty made all the more extraordinary for their unexpected or rustic settings. Her work reveals a love of nature, and a fascination with the transformative nature of light. Raised in a family of notable BC artists, she has earned recognition, international collectors, and elected membership with both the Society of Canadian Artists and as a Senior Member and Chair of the Federation of Canadian Artists. A dedicated advocate for the Arts, Jennifer embraces opportunities to share her experience through teaching and contributes to numerous charitable events and organizations.
About the FCA 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