Art and Sculpture Classes 

Fall Schedules 2025

The VIS Studio presents a series of workshops, providing an immersive experience in art and sculpting.

Located in Nanaimo, the Vancouver Island Sculpting Studio stands as a fully equipped professional art space that is home to professional artists and sets the stage for creativity and growth.

Our participants have the privilege of learning from professional artists within an environment designed to inspire and nurture artistic expression.

Our diverse range of art workshops ensures that there is something for everyone.

Secure your spot for the upcoming sessions of art and sculpture classes as soon as possible, as availability is limited.

Upon registration, a $50 non-refundable administration fee is required. This fee will be applied to the total cost of the workshop.

On the Road Workshops

Bringing Sculpting to Your Community

At Joel A. Prevost's VIS Studio, we are thrilled to offer our sculpting workshops to your community! If you’re interested in hosting a workshop in your area, we warmly invite you to get in touch with your request.

"When reaching out, please include your contact details, the name and address of the potential hosting venue or organization, and your preferred dates and times for the workshop."

Let me know if you need further adjustments! We look forward to collaborating and sharing the art of sculpting with your community!

Course Description:

This course offers an opportunity to explore making personal and meaningful art using a variety of mixed-media techniques and materials. Previous experience is not required. You are encouraged to bring a willingness to try new things and a courageous mindset for exploration and play.

A variety of techniques, including collage, photo-transfer of images from photocopies, Gelli plate printing, stamping, stenciling, and painting will be used to develop layers that reflect you and what is meaningful to you.

By the completion of this workshop, you will have had the opportunity to create several small pieces on paper as well as one work on a wooden cradle. Throughout the workshop, there will be occasions where gentle and positive critique will be possible.

Cost: Registration fee $190. + Materials $30. + GST

Total: $231.00 tax included

TO REGISTER: Please fill out the registration form and we‘ll get back to you

SESSION ONE - Developing surface searching for your own marks

• Gleaning - which subjects and styles resonate with you?

• Discovering colour palettes

• Experimenting with materials

• Experimenting with techniques - photo transfer, Gelli plate printing, stamping, and stenciling.

SESSION TWO - Putting it all together

• Ordering layers

• Adding text

• Finding the gestalt (an organized whole that is perceived as more than the sum of its part.

• Finishing

• Sealing the surface

  Supplies to bring: Any drawing and painting materials you already have and like to use. Photocopies of meaningful photos - people, places, things, symbols, shapes, pieces of writing. An apron or painting shirt - things might get messy!

  Supplies provided: A variety of paper, wooden cradles, watercolor pencils, watercolour, acrylic paint, Indian ink, brushes, mediums, stencils, stamps, and printing materials, will all be available. 

  Urban Sketching …Travel Sketching Workshop

Techniques and Tips for Elevated Achievement

THIS IS A 9-HOUR WORKSHOP: 3 WEEKLY SESSIONS OF 3 HOURS.

Sunday, September 21, 28, and Ocotber 5

from 1 pm to 4 pm

LEVEL: BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES. 

MAXIMUM: 8 STUDENTS PER CLASS

instructor: John Hofman

Join us for an engaging Urban Sketching/Travel Sketching Workshop led by instructor John Hofman. This workshop delves into the essential elements of urban sketching and provides methods for properly depicting urban scenery on paper. All presentations will cater to beginner and intermediate levels, fostering an enjoyable drawing and painting experience.

We will explore various techniques to initiate a sketch, including identifying shapes, estimating object proportions, and achieving credible perspectives of buildings without relying on rulers. Throughout the workshop sessions, we will touch upon compositional principles and the editing of scenery, which will complement each of the topics above. To bring your drawings to life, we will examine techniques for applying tonal values and effectively using colour. Emphasis will be placed on utilizing waterproof pen and ink in conjunction with watercolour.

Some basic materials will be provided for your use. Additionally, we will dedicate time to discussing recommendations for acquiring art materials and equipment that align with your preferences while remaining within a modest budget.

Registration fee $310. + Materials $30. + GST / Total: $357.00 tax included

TO REGISTER: Please fill out the registration form and will get back to you

Garden Of Eden

Evening sculpting workshop with a male Live Model

LEARN HOW TO SCULPT A MONUMENTAL PIECE

Starting dates Thursday, February 5

This is a 15-hour workshop: 5 weekly sessions of 3 hours.

Thursday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30

from 7 pm - 10 pm

Level: beginners and intermediates.

Maximum: 8 students per class

Teacher: Joel A Prevost

The Hand in Motion

Learn to sculpt the mechanics of your hand

Starting dates: Sunday, March 2

THIS IS A 9-HOUR WORKSHOP: 3 WEEKLY SESSIONS OF 3 HOURS.

Sunday, October 19, 26, and November 2

LEVEL: BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES. 

MAXIMUM: 8 STUDENTS PER CLASS

TEACHER: JOEL A. PREVOST 

Throughout the workshop, we will tackle the challenge of achieving harmony in proportions and symmetry, allowing the hand to convey the fluidity of movement and emotion. Our expert instructors will guide you through step-by-step instructions, providing the necessary skills to sculpt with precision.

Gain an understanding of the muscles and tendons that give the hand its strength and agility, as they connect to the forearm. Explore their interplay and discover the secrets behind the hand's dexterity.

"The Hand in Motion" Workshop is suitable for artists of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sculptor, this workshop offers a valuable opportunity to enhance your artistic abilities. Experience the joy of sculpting the hand and reserve your spot in "The Hand in Motion" Workshop today.

Cost: Registration fee $310. + Materials $45. + GST (including kiln firing)

 total: $372.75 tax included

TO REGISTER: Please fill out the registration form and will get back to you

The Eyes Exploration

The eyes are the window to the soul

THIS IS A 7-HOUR WORKSHOP: 2 WEEKLY SESSIONS OF 3.5 HOURS.

Sunday, October 21, and 28 FROM 7 PM - 10 PM

LEVEL: BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES. 

MAXIMUM: 8 STUDENTS PER CLASS

TEACHER: JOEL A. PREVOST 

The eyes are a prominent feature, playing a significant role as elements in the face and conveying vital expressions that communicate how we feel.

The eyes are often considered to be the windows to the soul, as they are the first conduits for sight. Expressive changes around the eyes can influence how we see, and in turn, communicate to others how we think and feel.

In this workshop, Joël A. Prévost, a professional artist, will begin by demonstrating various techniques and sharing tricks of the trade for sculpting the elements of the eyes. He'll also provide tips on choosing the appropriate tools for the job. Participants will then have the opportunity to practice sculpting these elements repeatedly on a clay tablet.

The workshop will include an in-depth study of the morphology of the eyes to establish the important points for proper performance. We'll also have a discussion about the language of the eyes and symmetry.

This workshop is designed for beginners and professionals, offering a useful approach to sculpting for every skill level. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to learn from a seasoned artist and refine your sculpting skills!

Cost: Registration fee $190. + Materials $30. + GST (including kiln firing)

 total: $231.00 tax included

TO REGISTER: Please fill out the registration form and will get back to you

Discovering Yourself Through Clay

THIS IS A 3-HOUR WORKSHOP.

Saturday, October 18 FROM 1 PM - 4 PM

Maximum: 8 Students per class

Instructor: Amelie Blanchard

Join us for an enriching afternoon of introspection through clay. In this unique workshop, you will explore how to connect with yourself through the joyful experience of creative expression. Led by art therapist Amélie Blanchard, this session presents a distinctive approach to clay work. She believes that when our hands are engaged, our hearts are liberated to discover and express.”

This hand-building workshop aims to nurture your emotional well-being by inviting you to creatively reflect on your feelings and discover what they may reveal to you. 

No prior experience with clay is required; we warmly welcome participants of all skill levels.

This workshop is open to adults from all walks of life. If you want to deepen your relationship with yourself and embrace your creative spirit, that’s perfect for you!

Cost: Registration fee $120. + GST ) Total: $126.00 tax included

TO REGISTER: Please fill out the registration form and will get back to you

Embracing Abstraction on Paper

Abstract Painting in Acrylics

THIS IS A 6-HOUr WORKSHOP: 2 WEEKLY SESSIONS OF 3 HOURS.

Sunday, November 23 and 30

From 1 PM to 4 PM

LEVEL: BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES.

MAXIMUM: 8 STUDENTS PER CLASS

Instructor: Darcy Johnson, Judith

Course Description:

In this course, we will use one approach to abstract painting with acrylic pigments and mediums. As we cover basic colour theory, we will explore our individual colour preferences and choose one colour system to use in our painting.

Composing with various shapes and lines will create space and movement in our paintings. To enrich our individual approaches, I will introduce some of the history of abstract painting from the 20th Century to the present. All of the ideas and skills we explore in abstract acrylic painting will apply to representational art.

This course is appropriate for both the beginner and the experienced artist. Students will be able to walk away with at least one painting and a deeper knowledge of abstract art and composition. You will better understand the various approaches to using acrylic paint as well as your personal creative process and unique responses to visual art.

Materials: The teacher will provide paper, canvas, paint, mediums and brushes. Please bring any painting materials that you like to use.

Cost : Registration fee $190.00 + Materials $30.00 + GST 

 total: $231.00 tax included

TO REGISTER: Please fill out the registration form and will get back to you

Christmas Tree Workshop

Ornament Christmas Tree / Slab Technique

5-hour workshop split into two weekly sessions:

first session is 4 hours, followed by a 2-hour second session.

Saturday, November 29 / FROM 1 PM - 4 PM

Saturday, December 13 / from 1 to 3 pm

LEVEL: BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES.

8 Students per class

instructor: Joel A. Prevost

Join us for our exciting 'Christmas Tree Workshop' and get ready to create beautiful and unique Christmas tree ornaments! This workshop is specifically designed for students with no prior experience working with clay - it's a fun and playful way to learn the slab technique.

Under the guidance of instructor Joel A. Prevost, you'll begin by learning valuable techniques for preparing and handling slabs as well as building techniques on an armature. Throughout this delightful introductory hand-building workshop, you'll acquire essential skills for constructing various ceramic projects.

By the end of the workshop, each participant will have successfully created their own textured Christmas tree ornament. It's a wonderful opportunity to delve into the festive spirit and craft something special for the holidays.

The price includes clay, glaze, and Kiln firing.

Registration fee: Registration fee $120.00 + Materials $20.00 + GST

Total: $147.00 tax included

TO REGISTER: Please fill out the registration form and will get back to you

Vancouver Island Sculpting Studio: Refund and Cancellation Policies

Upon registration, a $50 non-refundable administration fee is required, which will be applied to the total cost of the workshop.

Refund Policies: 

- Cancellation requests made 7 days or more before the first class will receive a full refund, with the $50 administration fee deducted.

- The registration fee will not be refunded if the cancellation is made less than 6 days before the first scheduled session.

- Cancellations made on the same day as the workshop will not be eligible for a refund or rescheduling.

Missed Classes:

- If you have missed any classes, you can make them up by booking a 2-hour Studio Drop-In session, which includes private teaching

- There is a fee of $75. + GST for this service.

Please note that the Studio Drop-In session must be scheduled within two weeks of the missed classes.

Workshop Cancellation Policy: 

- Vancouver Island Sculpting Studio reserves the right to cancel or postpone workshops due to enrolment, instructor illness, inclement weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. 

- If a workshop is canceled, you have two options: you can transfer to another workshop or receive a full refund.

- Participants will be notified of any cancellations as soon as possible.

- Full refunds will be issued to participants without delay.

Please note:

- The decision to allow make-up classes is at the discretion of the studio management.

- This decision is made to balance the requests based on availability and scheduling constraints.