Art and Culture in Winter

It’s winter, we have snow. Go out and play. Or find a cozy place indoors. And take the time to enjoy lots of food, family and friends during the upcoming holiday season.

As we get ready for 2017, I am sending to your inbox some information about unique resources for artists and everyone with creative aspirations. All are available right here in Toronto, and perfect for winter. In this post, I will tell you about the following:

• MAP, a special program within our library system,
• The Art Center, Art School for adults at Central Tech,
• The Book Shelf, a new feature that I am building on my website, and
• January 2017 schedule for my “Just do It!” Painting classes – did you know that we have a new location?

Details about my January “Just Do It!” painting classes are at the bottom of this post, so if that is what you are seeking, just scroll to the bottom. Otherwise I invite you to read through the body of the post.

MAP (Museum + Arts Pass) offers Cultural Opportunities

MAP is an arts and culture program offered by the Toronto Public Library in conjunction with Sun Life that allows all Torontonians, or at least those who have a library card, to “borrow” admission to the best arts and culture treasures in the city – free. The AGO, ROM, Ontario Science Center, the Zoo, the Aga Khan, and many more. And while you are checking out the MAP program, why not take a look at all the other special features of our library system…. on-line books, author talks, writing and technology workshops, programs for children, seniors, new Canadians, and so much more. Love our libraries!!

The Art Center (TAC) at Central Technical School offers a complete Arts Education for Adults

Central Technical School has been producing notable Canadian artists for 80 years.  TAC offers an adult program alongside its high school program, both of which are publicly funded by the Toronto District School Board and the Ministry of Education.  In 1962 a separate building with 15 large studios was opened to house the booming arts program. The Art Centre is a unique environment because of its diversity and age range.  The instructors are often working artists and all are certified teachers working at Central Technical School.  Many of the staff studied art at Central Tech and are part of a generational lineage.  The Art Center is an opportunity to go back to school to get that arts education that you always wanted.

The Book Shelf, a new feature on my website

I have a love affair with art books – if you have been in my classes you already know that. Over the years, I have found so many beautiful art books, but there are always more to be discovered. In an effort to honour these books, and to help others discover and enjoy them;  I am creating The Book Shelf on my website. It is a listing of my favourites – at the moment it is a short list as it is just getting started, but it will grow, quickly I hope. If you have favourites that are missing, do let me know.

By the way, all or most of these books are available at your Public library, just waiting for you to take home and enjoy. And did you know that you can take up to 50 books out at the same time? And guess how I happen to know that….

“Just Do It!” Experimental Painting Classes, January 2017.

I am excited to tell you that starting this January classes will be offered at Gerrard Art Space (GAS), near Gerrard and Coxwell in Little India. Thank you to Joanne at GAS for generously opening her space for our classes, and thank you also to Stacey at Rebellion for hosting us for the past few years.

My class schedule for January has been finalized and published on my website. Below is a brief overview; for full details please visit my website. Registration is now open for all classes.

Classes at Gerrard Art Space (GAS) in Little India, starting January 16:

• Monday morning class: 10 – 12:30
• Monday afternoon class: 1 – 3:30
•  Click here for general information about the “Just Do It!” Program.
• To register: reply to this email, or visit GAS and sign up in person.
• Fee: $125 / 4-pack.

Classes at Cedar Ridge Creative Center, starting January 17:

• Tuesday afternoon class: 1 – 4
• Tuesday evening class: 6:30 – 9:30
• To register contact Cedar Ridge directly at 416-396-4026

One-day Workshop at the Momiji Center

• Saturday January 21, 9am – 4pm
• To register contact Donna Sato at Momiji at donna@momiji.on.ca