Art Courses

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.

June 26 - Peer Critique w/ Ciel Ellis (ONLINE)

Cost: By Donation

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Peer Critique: Community Open Studio with Ciel Ellis (SFCA)

 

Friday, June 26 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
ONLINE

 

We've had requests from members to hold this event online, so members outside the Greater Vancouver Region can participate. We're excited to host the first ever Community Open Studio ONLINE!

 

Join the Federation of Canadian Artists for an evening of constructive feedback and artistic connection at our Peer Critique Community Open Studio. Led by SFCA member and juror Ciel Ellis, this supportive, artist-led session invites participants to bring their artwork for thoughtful critique from fellow artists.

 

Whether you're preparing work for exhibition, seeking fresh perspective on a piece in progress, or looking to strengthen your practice through dialogue, this open studio offers a welcoming space to share your work and engage with Vancouver's vibrant artist community.

 

What to Expect:

  • Prep 1 piece of artwork for group critique
  • Receive constructive feedback in a supportive, peer-based environment
  • Gain insights from experienced juror Ciel Ellis (SFCA)

Ciel Artist Statement:

ll 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.

Register Now

 

June 19 - Community Open Studio: Life Drawing & Wine V (Costume Edition)

Cost: By Donation
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Community Open Studio: Life Drawing + Wine V - Costume Edition
We heard your requests for various modelling types and are looking to spice it up with a costume this time around. We also will have Matthew Masson playing music for the duration of life drawing.

Join us for a relaxed evening of creativity and connection at the FCA Community Open Studio! Whether you're a seasoned artist or just curious about life drawing, this welcoming session invites you to sketch, sip, and socialize.
Featuring model Ann Narky from NOOD Life Drawing in costume, you'll have two hours to practice your figure drawing skills in a supportive studio environment. Wine and light refreshments will be available to help set the mood.
All skill levels welcome. No prior experience necessary—just bring your materials and an open mind! Limited easels and supplies are available, so please bring your own if possible.
Date: Friday, June 19, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: FCA's Flex Space Studio
Registration: By donation (register at www.artists.ca)
Presented by the Federation of Canadian Artists in collaboration with NOOD Life Drawing.
Register Now