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
Wheel Throwing: Basics and Beyond! with Sarah Barr (April 20, 2026 - June 1, 2026 no class May 18)
Join instructor Sarah Barr in the pottery studio to begin, or further develop, your skills on the wheel. We will explore throwing, trimming, making handles and glazing. Enjoy a hands-on experience with clay during this messy and meditative six week session.
When
6 Monday mornings
April 20th – June 1st, 2026
11:00am-1:30pm
Class fee
$270 for VISAC members (or $300 for non-members)
Supply fee
$20 for clay, to be paid by cash or e-transfer on the first day of class. Minimum 4 students, with a maximum of 5.
Youth ages 16-18 are welcome to participate, with parental consent.
Location
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About Sarah Barr of Centre Star Studio
Centre Star Studio is the home and workspace of potter Sarah Barr. Located near Gyro Park in Trail BC, it’s here that Sarah works with clay, colour and form to make functional pieces that bring joy to everyday moments. To learn more about Sarah, check out her website.
Sarah teaches wheel throwing and hand building classes in the pottery studio.
Introduction to Clay Techniques with Sarah Zanussi (May 4th - June 15th No Class May 18)
This class is a perfect for anyone new to working with clay or anyone who wants to expand their skills. Students learn the fundamental techniques of both wheel throwing and hand-building, including pinching, coiling, and slab construction, to create a variety of forms. This course also covers the basics of wedging, centering, pulling, trimming and glazing providing a solid foundation for your future ceramic projects.
Workshop dates
6 Monday evenings
May 4th – June 15th, 2026 (No class May 18th)
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Workshop fee
$270 for VISAC members (or $300 for non-members)
Supply fee
$20 for clay, to be paid by cash or e-transfer on the first day of class. Minimum 4 students, with a maximum of 5.
Youth ages 16-18 are welcome to participate, with parental consent.
Location
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About Sarah Zanussi of Pisces Pottery
Creating nature inspired, whimsical collections of functional pottery from her home studio. To learn more, check out her work on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pisces_pottery/
Register here
Handbuild a Texture-Rich Summer Tableware Set (April 22nd - May 27th, 2026)
Participants will explore texture on a tableware set that includes 2 tumblers, a large pitcher, and a set of small bowls. This class will also introduce you to a couple of decorative carving techniques; Sgraffito, fluting, and low relief carving.
Workshop Dates:
Wednesday evenings, 6:00pm-8:30pm
Duration:
6 weeks (April 22nd – May 27th)
Minimum 6 students, with a maximum of 10.
Youth ages 16-18 are welcome to participate, with parental consent.
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.
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
Register here
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 (up to 8 participants)
2. A coil bowl (up to 8 participants)
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 six 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
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. Art smocks are provided for the children.
One caregiver per child (or group of children) is required.
Class dates
Tuesday mornings
April 7th – June 16th, 2026
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM or 11:00 AM -11:45 AM
Class fees
$77 per child for 11 classes
$7 per drop-in
All supplies are included
Location
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
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.
Class dates
Tuesday afternoons from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
11 sessions from April 7th – June 16th, 2026
Minimum 5 students, with a maximum of 12
Class fee
$10 drop-in fee
All supplies are provided
Location
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, email info@visacgallery.com
Register here
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.
Class dates
Wednesday afternoons from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
11 sessions from April 8th – June 17th, 2026
Minimum 5 students, with a maximum of 12
Class fee
$10 drop-in fee
All supplies are provided
Location
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, email info@visacgallery.com
Register here
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.
Class dates
Thursday afternoons from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
11 sessions from April 9th – June 18th, 2026
Minimum 5 students, with a maximum of 12
Class fee
$10 drop-in fee
All supplies are provided
Location
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
About the instructor
Instructor information coming soon!
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Register here
Kids Summer Art Camp (Ages 6-10) - The Deep Sea Creatures Studio Monday, July 6th - Thursday, July 9th, 2026
Dive into a world beneath the waves in this imaginative, hands-on art class! In our Under the Sea adventure, participants will design and create their very own sea creatures using recycled materials and paper mâché techniques. From glowing jellyfish and curious octopuses to whimsical fish and entirely made-up ocean beings, creativity has no limits.
We’ll explore basic paper mâché building methods including layering, shaping, and adding texture while encouraging playful experimentation with color, form, and personality. Once structures are dry, artists will bring their creatures to life with paint, details, and decorative elements.
This class is perfect for kids who love to get a little messy while building something magical. Along the way, we’ll spark imagination, practice creative problem-solving, and celebrate the beauty and mystery of the ocean.
No experience needed, just bring your curiosity and be ready to create!
Small group setting with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 participants
Additional instructor support is added for larger groups.
Timeline
4 Days
Monday, July 6th – Thursday, July 16th
8:30am – 9:00am – Drop off
9:00am – 12:00pm – Guided Art Projects
12:00pm – 12:30pm – Lunch
12:30pm – 1:00pm – Pick up
Class fees:
$250 per participant
All supplies are provided
About Sarah Elizabeth:
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.
Location
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
Cancellation Policy
This cancellation policy applies to all classes and workshops offered at VISAC.
Full payment is required at the time of registration to reserve your seat in the workshop or program.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Our Workshops and Programs are priced based on a minimum number of participants needed to run each class. For this reason, the following cancellation policy applies:
Cancellations received 14 days or more before the first class: Full refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.Cancellations received between 7–13 days before the first class:75% refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.
Cancellations received less than 7 days before the first class: No refund will be issued. No refunds are provided after a class or workshop series has begun.
Workshop Cancellation by VISAC
If the gallery or instructor must cancel a workshop for any reason, all collected fees will be fully refunded or, if preferred, transferred to another workshop.
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Register here
Kids Summer Pottery Camp (Ages 9–12) Monday, July 13th - Thursday, July 16th, 2026
Join us this summer for a hands on 4 day pottery camp where kids can explore creativity and build skills in clay. Each session is designed to introduce a variety of handbuilding techniques while creating fun, functional, and imaginative pieces. This camp is a great opportunity for young artists to get their hands dirty, learn new techniques, and bring their ideas to life in clay.
Projects this week:
Personalized mug
Animal sculpture
Cupcake secret container
Small group setting with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 participants
Additional instructor support is added for larger groups.
Timeline
4 Days
Monday, July 13th – Thursday, July 16th
8:30am – 9:00am – Drop off
9:00am – 12:00pm – Guided Pottery Projects
12:00pm – 12:30pm – Lunch
12:30pm – 1:00pm – Pick up
Class fees:
$275 per participant
All supplies are provided
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/
Location
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
Cancellation Policy
This cancellation policy applies to all classes and workshops offered at VISAC.
Full payment is required at the time of registration to reserve your seat in the workshop or program.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Our Workshops and Programs are priced based on a minimum number of participants needed to run each class. For this reason, the following cancellation policy applies:
Cancellations received 14 days or more before the first class:Full refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.Cancellations received between 7–13 days before the first class:75% refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.
Cancellations received less than 7 days before the first class: No refund will be issued. No refunds are provided after a class or workshop series has begun.
Workshop Cancellation by VISAC
If the gallery or instructor must cancel a workshop for any reason, all collected fees will be fully refunded or, if preferred, transferred to another workshop.
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Register here
Kids Summer Art Camp (Ages 6-10) Snuggle Squad Studio Monday, July 20th - Thursday, July 23rd, 2026
Bring a cuddly creation to life in this hands on stuffed animal workshop designed just for kids! In this playful and creative class, participants will dream up their very own unique plush friend from sketching their design to choosing colors, textures, and special details.
Kids will learn beginner friendly sewing techniques to assemble their stuffed animal, then explore the magic of felting to add personality. Think expressive faces, patterns, and fun embellishments. Along the way, we’ll build confidence with simple stitching skills, encourage creative problem solving, and celebrate each child’s one of a kind creation.
Perfect for young makers who love crafting, imagining, and working with their hands. No prior sewing experience needed, an all materials are provided.
By the end of the class, each child will head home with a handmade stuffed animal and the skills (and pride!) that come with creating something from start to finish.
No experience needed, just bring your curiosity and be ready to create!
Small group setting with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 participants
Additional instructor support is added for larger groups.
Timeline
4 Days
Monday, July 20th – Thursday, July 23rd
8:30am – 9:00am – Drop off
9:00am – 12:00pm – Guided Art Projects
12:00pm – 12:30pm – Lunch
12:30pm – 1:00pm – Pick up
Class fees:
$250 per participant
All supplies are provided
About Sarah Elizabeth:
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.
Location
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
Cancellation Policy
This cancellation policy applies to all classes and workshops offered at VISAC.
Full payment is required at the time of registration to reserve your seat in the workshop or program.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Our Workshops and Programs are priced based on a minimum number of participants needed to run each class. For this reason, the following cancellation policy applies:
Cancellations received 14 days or more before the first class: Full refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.Cancellations received between 7–13 days before the first class:75% refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.
Cancellations received less than 7 days before the first class: No refund will be issued. No refunds are provided after a class or workshop series has begun.
Workshop Cancellation by VISAC
If the gallery or instructor must cancel a workshop for any reason, all collected fees will be fully refunded or, if preferred, transferred to another workshop.
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Register here
Kids Summer Pottery Camp (Ages 9–12) Monday, July 27th - Thursday, July 30th, 2026
Join us this summer for a hands on 4 day pottery camp where kids can explore creativity and build skills in clay. Each session is designed to introduce a variety of handbuilding techniques while creating fun, functional, and imaginative pieces. This camp is a great opportunity for young artists to get their hands dirty, learn new techniques, and bring their ideas to life in clay.
Projects this week:
Handbuilt Animal Bowl
Self Portrait Bust
Fairy House
Small group setting with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 participants
Additional instructor support is added for larger groups.
Timeline
4 Days
Monday, July 27th – Thursday, July 30th
8:30am – 9:00am – Drop off
9:00am – 12:00pm – Guided Pottery Projects
12:00pm – 12:30pm – Lunch
12:30pm – 1:00pm – Pick up
Class fees:
$275 per participant
All supplies are provided
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/
Location
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
Cancellation Policy
This cancellation policy applies to all classes and workshops offered at VISAC.
Full payment is required at the time of registration to reserve your seat in the workshop or program.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Our Workshops and Programs are priced based on a minimum number of participants needed to run each class. For this reason, the following cancellation policy applies:
Cancellations received 14 days or more before the first class:Full refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.Cancellations received between 7–13 days before the first class:75% refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.
Cancellations received less than 7 days before the first class: No refund will be issued. No refunds are provided after a class or workshop series has begun.
Workshop Cancellation by VISAC
If the gallery or instructor must cancel a workshop for any reason, all collected fees will be fully refunded or, if preferred, transferred to another workshop.
If you have any questions, reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Register here
Adult Programming
Glass Fusion: Spring Plant Stakes - March 13th, 2026
Come play with colour, texture, and light and with a one-of-a-kind glass artwork to welcome spring
Celebrate the arrival of spring with glass! In this hands-on Glass Fusion class, students will design and create their own vibrant glass plant stakes inspired by the season, such as butterflies, flowers, or leaves. These decorative stakes are perfect for houseplants, garden beds, or gifting.
Guided by local artist MaryAnn Pengelly of All About Art Kootenays, participants will learn the basics of glass fusion, including design, cutting, layering, and composition. No prior glass experience is necessary. This class is beginner-friendly while offering plenty of room for creativity and personal expression.
All materials are provided. Finished pieces will be kiln-fired after the class and available for pickup approximately one week later.
When: Friday, March 13, 2026 @ 5:30PM – 8:00PM
Duration: 1 day
Ages: 13+ Beginners Welcome
Class Fee: $90
Class Size: Minimum 6 students / Maximum 10 students
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
If you have any questions, please reach out to info@visacgallery.com
Acrylic Ink Scenic Birch Panel - March 20th, 2026
Celebrate the return of spring by diving into the vibrant world of fluid acrylic ink! In this class, you will learn to use flowing acrylic inks to create layered botanical painting focusing on light, colour, and atmosphere.
Led by Sheila Morrison of All About Art Kootenays, we will use a mix of bold acrylic inks and markers, along with simple texturing techniques, to create a unique 8×8″ painting on cradled birchwood. We will explore blending, splattering, and fine-line detailing to bring your painting to life
All materials are provided and no experience is required for this relaxing class. Come ready to paint and enjoy a creative evening inspired by the season.
When: Friday, March 20, 2026 @ 5:30PM – 8:00PM
Duration: 1 day
Ages: 13+ Beginners Welcome
Class Fee: $80
Class Size: Minimum 6 students / Maximum 12 students
Where:
VISAC Gallery – Under the red gallery awning
1501 Cedar Ave, Trail
Lower Level of Selkirk Building
If you have any questions, please reach out to info@visacgallery.com
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.
Next series: To Be Determined
To register email: info@visacgallery.com
Instructors
Sarah Barr
Centre Star Studio is the home and workspace of potter Sarah Barr. Located near Gyro Park in Trail BC, it’s here that Sarah works with clay, colour and form to make functional pieces that bring joy to everyday moments. To learn more about Sarah, check out her website.
Sarah teaches wheel throwing and hand building classes in the pottery studio.
Sarah Elizabeth
EST. 2015 & based in Rossland, BC. Sarah Elizabeth Fibre Works provides sustainably sourced and produced fibre art supplies & tools for all fibre art enthusiasts. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website here.
Sarah teaches the preschool art program Itty Bitty Art Time as well as a variety of fibre art classes.
Lana Jamieson
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. To learn more about Lana, click here.
Lana teaches wheel throwing and hand building classes in the pottery studio.
Theresa LeRose
I work in both hand built and wheel thrown work with emphasis on surface treatment and altered shapes. I work out of my home in Castlegar and a community studio in Trail. To learn more, visit Theresa’s website.
Theresa teaches classes in the pottery studio.
Bill Coedy
Although I have spent a lifetime being any scientist, I enjoy using the “other” side of my brain for artistic expression. It seems that I have been classified as a folk painter as many of my artworks depict a historical event. I like to mix art with science, trying new techniques and teaching those to others. Cell Painting is a nice example. When I’m not painting I am cooking and love a spicy pad thai.
Bill teaches our Visual Exploration Club 13+ group.
Sarah Zanussi
Creating nature inspired, whimsical collections of functional pottery from her home studio. To learn more, check out her work on instagram.
Sarah teaches wheel throwing and hand building classes in the pottery studio.
Cancellation Policy
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 is required at the time of registration to reserve your seat in the workshop or program.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Our Workshops and Programs are priced based on a minimum number of participants needed to run each class. For this reason, the following cancellation policy applies:
Cancellations received 14 days or more before the first class:
Full refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.
Cancellations received between 7–13 days before the first class:
75% refund minus a $20 administration fee per student.
Cancellations received less than 7 days before the first class:
No refund will be issued.
No refunds are provided after a class or workshop series has begun.
Workshop Cancellation by VISAC
If the gallery or instructor must cancel a workshop for any reason, all collected fees will be fully refunded or, if preferred, transferred to another workshop.