COMMUNITY OPEN STUDIO
Join our popular Community Open Studio series for peer connection, critique, and hands-on artistic engagement. These sessions provide supportive environments to share work, receive feedback, and build community—both in-person and online.
Recent examples include peer critiques led by experienced SFCA members and jurors, such as life drawing sessions or themed discussions. Many events offer registration with limited spots and waitlists. Check the current schedule for upcoming dates, formats (online or in-person), and registration details. By-donation options make these accessible to a wide range of participants.
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.
Upcoming Events
Peer Critique: Community Open Studio with Ciel Ellis (SFCA)
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM · Online
By popular request, we're hosting our first ever Community Open Studio online, so members outside the Greater Vancouver region can join. Led by SFCA member and juror Ciel Ellis, this supportive, artist-led session invites you to bring one piece of artwork for thoughtful critique from fellow artists — whether you're preparing for exhibition, seeking fresh perspective, or strengthening your practice through dialogue.
- 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)
About Ciel Ellis
All 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. Making my art engages me with beauty, and is really about completing a relationship between the light and darkness of my subjects — a metaphor for the human experience. The work of Georgia O'Keeffe, Thomas Darnell, Mickie Acierno, Renato Mucillo, Robert LeMay and others inspires me, offering a window into realism and sensuality.
Community Open Studio: Life Drawing + Wine VI (Male Model Edition)
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM · FCA Flex Space Studio, 1310 Johnston Street, Vancouver
A relaxed evening of creativity and connection. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just curious about life drawing, this welcoming session invites you to sketch, sip, and socialize. This month features a male figure model from NOOD Life Drawing, offering a chance to work from a different body type across a variety of poses. Enjoy three hours of practice alongside fellow artists, with wine and light refreshments.
All skill levels welcome — no experience necessary. Limited easels and supplies are available, so please bring your own if possible. Presented in collaboration with NOOD Life Drawing.
Register Now
Peer Critique V: Community Open Studio with Ciel Ellis (SFCA)
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM · FCA Flex Space Studio, 1310 Johnston Street, Vancouver
After a successful online edition in June, Peer Critique returns in person for an evening of discussion, connection, and artistic exchange. Hosted by SFCA member and juror Ciel Ellis, this artist-led session invites you to bring one artwork for thoughtful critique among fellow artists in a welcoming environment.
- Bring 1 artwork for group critique
- Receive constructive feedback in a supportive, peer-based environment
- Connect and network with fellow artists
- Gain insights from juror Ciel Ellis (SFCA)
Open to all skill levels. Space is limited so each participant receives meaningful feedback — attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and contribute to others' critiques.
Register Now
FCA Pop Up Art Market III
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM · FCA Flex Space Studio, 1310 Johnston Street, Granville Island
A one-day celebration of creativity, community, and independent artists. This curated market features artists, makers, and creatives showcasing original artwork, ceramics, jewelry, prints, textiles, handcrafted goods, and more. Whether you're an established artist, emerging maker, or creative entrepreneur, it's a chance to connect with art lovers in one of Vancouver's most vibrant arts destinations.
Open to FCA members and non-members across a wide range of disciplines. We seek work reflecting originality, quality craftsmanship, and artistic excellence. Donations support our community open studio initiatives.
Apply as a VendorWhere Art Comes to Life
Our Facilites
The FCA operates three dedicated facilities on Granville Island and beyond, each designed to support artists through exhibition, creation, and education.
Federation Gallery
On Granville Island
The Federation Gallery is located in the heart of Vancouver's arts and culture community on Granville Island. It presents over 20 exhibitions annually, featuring work by emerging and established artists, including a dedicated exhibition for emerging artists with no age limitation. The programming also includes three celebrated international open shows: On The Edge, the Annual International Representational Exhibition, and the Annual International Mail-In Art Exhibition.
Federation Studio
On Granville Island
The Federation Studio is located within Vancouver's vibrant arts community on Granville Island. It serves as a working space and hub for artistic development, supporting members through workshops, instructional programming, and hands-on learning opportunities. The Studio fosters skill-building and experimentation across a range of media, providing artists with access to professional guidance and a collaborative environment.
Federation Academy
Education & Learning
The Federation Academy offers educational programming designed to support artists at all stages of their practice. Through a combination of in-person and online learning opportunities, the Academy provides access to workshops, demonstrations, and courses led by established artists and instructors. Its programming is designed to deepen technical skills, expand creative approaches, and support ongoing artistic growth within a structured learning environment.
The FCA operates three dedicated facilities on Granville Island and beyond, each designed to support artists through exhibition, creation, and education.