Classes
No matter your age and experience level, come and get creative with VISAC! Browse upcoming programming below and check back for new opportunities added regularly.
Email info@visacgallery.com with any questions.
Pottery Workshops
(FULL) Wednesday Evening Beginner / Intermediate Wheel Throwing (Jan 8 - Feb 12)
Using a pottery wheel, expect to learn centering, pulling, trimming, making handles and glazing.
Past projects:
Mugs, bowls and tumblers.
Workshop Fees:
$270 for VISAC members (or $300 for non-members)
Supply Fees:
$20 for clay, to be paid by cash or e-transfer on the first day of class
Workshop Dates:
Wednesday evenings
January 8 – February 12, 2025
6:00pm-8:30pm
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About Lana Jamieson of Black Earth Ceramics:
Lana is the potter behind Black Earth Ceramics. She has a BFA from Concordia University where she majored in Studio Arts with a Concentration in Ceramic Sculpture. While in Montreal, Lana fell in love with pottery, while studying privately with Iranian master potter Mahmoud Baghaeian. She has a studio in her home in Rossland where she creates pottery which she sells in several shops. Lana has taught several ceramics workshops in schools, at peoples homes, and at the Rossland Museum. Lana also has a Bachelor of Education with a focus on teaching fine arts and currently works as a teacher for SD 20.
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
This class is now full. Registration is closed.
Valentine's Pottery Workshop
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
Register here
Monday Morning Beginner / Intermediate Wheel Throwing (Feb 24 - Mar 31)
Using a pottery wheel, expect to learn centering, pulling, trimming, making handles and glazing.
Past projects:
Mugs, bowls and tumblers.
Workshop Fees:
$270 for VISAC members (or $300 for non-members)
Supply Fees:
$20 for clay, to be paid by cash or e-transfer on the first day of class
Workshop Dates:
Monday mornings
February 24 – March 31, 2025
11:00am-1:30pm
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About Sarah Barr of Centre Star Studio:
Sarah Barr finds joy in the process of making ceramics and in sharing this process with others. Barr is drawn to the meditative process and playful qualities of clay, and her work is know for its simple design and joyous use of colour.
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Register here
(FULL) Handbuild a Summer Tableware Set (Feb 19 - Mar 12)
Participants will explore texture on a tableware set that includes 2 tumblers, a large pitcher, and 2 brunch bowls.
Workshop Fees:
$240 for VISAC members (or $270 for non-members)
Supply Fees:
$20 for clay, to be paid by cash or e-transfer on the first day of class.
Workshop Dates:
Wednesday evenings
February 19 – March 12, 2025
6:00pm-9:00pm
Minimum 4 students, with a maximum of 8.
Youth ages 16-18 are welcome to participate, with parental consent.
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About Lana Jamieson of Black Earth Ceramics:
Lana is the potter behind Black Earth Ceramics. She has a BFA from Concordia University where she majored in Studio Arts with a Concentration in Ceramic Sculpture. While in Montreal, Lana fell in love with pottery, while studying privately with Iranian master potter Mahmoud Baghaeian. She has a studio in her home in Rossland where she creates pottery which she sells in several shops. Lana has taught several ceramics workshops in schools, at peoples homes, and at the Rossland Museum. Lana also has a Bachelor of Education with a focus on teaching fine arts and currently works as a teacher for SD 20. To learn more about Lana, click here: https://www.facebook.com/BlackEarthCeramics/
If you have any questions, please reach out to info@visacgallery.com
This class series is full. Stay tuned for more learning opportunities in the pottery studio.
Friday Night Pottery (Private Classes)
Perfect for celebrating an occasion or getting to know your work team better, this pottery class is a fun and collaborative way to spend a Friday evening.
During our class you’ll create and decorate a pottery piece of your choice from one of the following options:
1. A slab mug
2. A coil bowl
3. Experience the process of the wheel* (one favorite piece will be kept per participant).
*Students must be 16 or older for this option; maximum five participants
After pieces are glazed and fired, we’ll email you to pick up your piece approximately four to six weeks after your class.
Minimum number of students is one; Maximum number of students is eight
Where:
VISAC Pottery Studio
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Community Building downtown
Class Fee:
$300 for the class (firing and glazing included)
Requests to register should be made at least a week in advance. Contact info@visacgallery.com if you need more information, or would like to check on the availability of your preferred date and time.
Youth Programming
Youth Collage Workshop (February 14, 2025)
Join instructor Heather Good for a youth art workshop. Using pre-painted paper and scraps, participants will create abstract collages while surrounded by inspiring artwork.
When: February 14, 2025 @ 1:00pm-3:00pm
Ages: 9-12
Class Fee: $5
Supplies: All supplies are included. Participants are welcome to bring their own collage materials if they’d like, such as scrap paper or magazines.
About Heather Good:
Inspired by nature, my abstract works feature elements that evoke a sense of familiarity and recognition. Drawing inspiration from the patterns of fallen leaves, textures of stone and brick, and the vibrant hues and intricate textures of moss and lichen, I translate these natural elements into my artwork with an instinctual approach. By observing and absorbing the world around me, I channel my creativity through marks, lines, shapes, and patterns, forging a profound connection between my surroundings and my artistic expressions.
Register here
Needle Felted Bear Workshop (February 22, 2025)
Join instructor Sarah Elizabeth to create a bear out of felt! Needle felting is a creative craft that involves sculpting shapes and figures using wool and special felting needles. It’s a simple yet versatile technique that allows you to create amazing creations with just a few supplies.
This session is for ages 9-12.
When: February 22, 2025 @ 1:00pm-3:00pm
Ages: 9-12
Minimum 6 participants, with a maximum of 10.
Class Fee: $35 per participant
Supply Fee: $15
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About the instructor:
Sarah Elizabeth Fibre Works is about all natural fibres; hand processed using the traditions of years gone by and the innovations of the present. The aim is to create a full circle connection for the consumer; an understanding of both the fabulous qualities of the product as well as the connection to the natural world.
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Register here
Itty Bitty Art Time - Preschool Art Classes (Ages 2-5)
Looking to explore art and creativity with the little kiddo in your life?
Participants can expect to make artwork in a wide range of materials that encourage experimentation and motor skill development. Previous projects include yarn bowls, glitter dioramas and marker pull art.
These classes get MESSY, be sure to dress your child (and yourself!) in play clothes. Paint, salt, glue and many more materials will be used. One caregiver per child (or group of children) is required.
Workshop Dates:
Tuesday mornings
January 7 – March 11, 2025 (10 sessions)
10:00am-10:45am
Course Fees:
$70 for 10 sessions
Drop-in for $7 per session
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About the Instructor:
Erin has a BFA in Studio Arts from UVic and a Masters of Illustration from Falmouth University. Her classes focus on process-based activities that don’t have a set outcome, fostering creativity and a low pressure environment, encouraging exploration and making mistakes!
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Visual Exploration Club (Ages 5-8)
Students can expect to learn about other artists, experiment with various materials, and make mistakes. Each participant receives a sketchbook to track their skill development in a wide range of materials such as drawing, painting, printmaking and 3-dimensional art.
This session is for ages 5-8, or primary students in grades K-3.
Workshop Dates:
Tuesday afternoons
January 7 – June 3, 2025 (20 sessions)
3:30pm-4:30pm
No class during SD20 Spring Break, March 18 & 25, 2025
Minimum 5 students, with a maximum of 12.
Class Fee:
$200 per participant
All supplies are provided
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About the instructor:
Erin has a BFA in Studio Arts from UVic and a Masters of Illustration from Falmouth University. Her classes focus on process-based activities that don’t have a set outcome, fostering creativity and a low pressure environment, encouraging exploration and making mistakes!
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Pre-registration is required.
Visual Exploration Club (Ages 9-12)
Students can expect to learn about other artists, experiment with various materials, and make mistakes. Each participant receives a sketchbook to track their skill development in a wide range of materials such as drawing, painting, printmaking and 3-dimensional art.
This session is for ages 9-12, or intermediate students in grades 4-7.
Workshop Dates:
Wednesday afternoons
January 8 – June 4, 2025 (20 sessions)
3:30pm-4:30pm
No class during SD20 Spring Break, March 19 & 26, 2025
Class Fee:
$200 per participant
All supplies are provided
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About the instructor:
Erin has a BFA in Studio Arts from UVic and a Masters of Illustration from Falmouth University. Her classes focus on process-based activities that don’t have a set outcome, fostering creativity and a low pressure environment, encouraging exploration and making mistakes!
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Pre-registration is required.
Visual Exploration Club (Ages 13+)
Students can expect to learn about other artists, experiment with various materials, and make mistakes. Each participant receives a sketchbook to track their skill development in a wide range of materials such as drawing, painting, printmaking and 3-dimensional art.
This session is for ages 13+, or secondary students in grades 8-12.
If your child is 16 or older, they can also participate in adult classes such as pottery workshops or any drop-in groups.
Workshop Dates:
Thursday afternoons
January 9 – June 5, 2025 (15 sessions)
3:30pm-4:30pm
No class during SD20 Spring Break, March 20 & 27, 2025
Class Fee:
$200 per participant
All supplies are provided
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About the instructor:
Erin has a BFA in Studio Arts from UVic and a Masters of Illustration from Falmouth University. Her classes focus on process-based activities that don’t have a set outcome, fostering creativity and a low pressure environment, encouraging exploration and making mistakes!
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Pre-registration is required.
Adult Programming
Needle Felted Painting Series (February 27 - March 20, 2025)
Learn the basics of needle felted painting in this calm and meditative workshop. Needle felting is a creative craft that involves sculpting shapes and figures using wool and special felting needles. It’s a simple yet versatile technique that allows you to create amazing creations with just a few supplies.
When: Thursdays, 6:00pm-8:00pm
Duration: 4 weeks (February 27 – March 20, 2025)
Ages: 16+
Minimum 6 participants, with a maximum of 10.
Class Fee: $140 for VISAC members ($170 for non-members)
Supply Fee: $25
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Buildin
About the instructor:
Sarah Elizabeth Fibre Works is about all natural fibres; hand processed using the traditions of years gone by and the innovations of the present. The aim is to create a full circle connection for the consumer; an understanding of both the fabulous qualities of the product as well as the connection to the natural world.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@visacgallery.com
Register here
Rock and Gem Polishing Studio and Classes
Rock Your World With A Lapidary Course
Beginner and experienced rockhounds have an opportunity during the fall and winter seasons to expand their knowledge of working with rocks and gems as the VISAC Gallery presents a four-session course on cutting and polishing semi-precious or just plain pretty stones.
Long-time local rock and gem craftsman Russ Olson will present 4-week 2-hour sessions. Email us for class costs. All sessions will be held in the VISAC Gallery’s Lapidary Studio.
Some of the topics to be covered include cabochon, which relates to the flat cutting and polishing of stone for mounting on a ring or pendant; mosaic stones; opal triplets, which involves sandwiching the stone between a black base and a quartz cap for protection; rock beads; and knife handles.
“They will be learning how to cut and polish stones, make custom jewelry they can wear such as belt buckles, pendants, and earrings,” Olson said. “The appeal is that they are leaning a craft that has unlimited ways in which you can go.”
Other possible applications include the creation of lamps similar to stained glass creations, rock vases, mixed media creations involving stone and other materials such as wood, casting gold and silver, and tinsmithing.
“The sky is really the limit,” Olson said.
If you are interested in signing up for a 4 week course call Olson at 368-5488 to confirm the starting date.
To register email: info@visacgallery.com
Lino Block Printing (Private Classes)
Perfect for celebrating an occasion or getting to know your work team better, this printmaking class is a fun and collaborative way to spend a Friday evening. Each workshop runs for 2 hours.
During this class you’ll participate in:
1. Found-object printmaking
Using recycled objects as well as items found in nature, participants will create several unique prints using everyday objects. This is an inclusive option that focuses more on the meditative nature of printmaking as opposed to a specific final outcome. Also an excellent option for youth!
2. Lino block printing*
Traditionally carved out of a block of linoleum, lino block printing is a striking medium that encourages imperfection and playfulness. Participants will produce a 3×4 block and reproduce it at least 4 times to make prints. This option is fast-paced, and participants are encouraged to have an idea of what image they want to reproduce ahead of time. Note that sharp carving tools are used in this workshop.
*Students must be 14 or older for this option
Minimum number of students is one; Maximum number of students is eight
Where:
VISAC Gallery
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Community Building downtown
Class Fee:
$300 for the class (supplies included)
Requests to register should be made at least a week in advance. Contact info@visacgallery.com if you need more information, or would like to check on the availability of your preferred date and time.
Cancellation Policy
Last updated on November 12, 2024
This cancellation policy applies to all classes and workshops offered at VISAC.
Registration:
Registration forms for workshops are available on our website.
Payment:
Full payment of the workshop fee is required at the time of registration to hold your seat.
Normal Refund Policy:
Each class and workshop series is priced on the basis of a minimum number of registrants required to cover the costs of facilitating the workshop.
Cancellation requests received 14 days prior to the start of the first class will receive a full refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.
Cancellations requests received with less than 14 days prior to the start of the first class will receive a 75% refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.
Cancellations requests received with less than 7 days prior to the start of the first class will not be refunded.
We do not issue refunds after the class or series has started.
Disclaimer:
In the unlikely event that the gallery or the instructor need to cancel a workshop, all fees that have been collected will be fully refunded or can be allocated to another workshop.