OCAD University, Canada’s leader in preparing the next generation of contemporary artists, is pleased to be opening the doors of our Florence studio to the international art and design community!

Our 2019 programming includes three different frameworks aimed at supporting overall studio practice, teacher training and material exploration. In addition to utilizing OCAD U’s studio and emphasizing our approach to contemporary practice, this programming will also include a significant amount of community immersion, including the opportunity to engage with local practitioners and workshops.

These new intensive short courses can count towards the OCAD U’s Continuing Studies Art and Design Studio Skills Certificate.

Open Session: Creator in Residence
Spring:
April 12th - 18th, April 19th-26th, 2019
Duration: 1 week or 2 weeks (participant can select)

Spring Open Session Creator-in-Residence: Register by March 15th, 2019

and
Summer:
July 8th - 14th, July 15th- 22nd, 2019
Duration: 1 week or 2 weeks (participant can select)

Summer Open Session Creator-in-Residence: Register by May 27th, 2019

Cost: $900 Canadian/week

Immerse yourself in a city where the rich traditions of fine art and craftsmanship meet contemporary art and design! The Creator in Residence Open Residency supports the participation of artists, designers, writers and any creative practitioners that can benefit from the time and space to develop their practice in a studio environment. As a participant, you will receive access to space at OCAD U’s Florence studio in a quiet shared palazzo in Florence’ San Marco neighbourhood. Your own designated work space will be complemented by the proximity to other creative professionals from around the world, as well as an array of programming to help you reflect on and share your practice. The residency includes an introductory Italian lesson, group community events, studio visits with local practitioners and a facilitated weekly group critique session.

Who should take this course:
This program is flexible to suit the needs of creative practices at various levels and media. This is an opportunity to dedicate time to your practice, or experiment with new processes and considerations. It is ideal for individuals who want to further their own studio or written work, with a structure that will provide a new context and framework for them to do so within.

Masterclass: Ignite Your Creativity in Florence (and Venice!)
June 10th- 24th, 2019
Duration: 2 weeks

Cost: $2,700 Canadian
Register by April 29th, 2019

Imagine the beautiful artwork you’ll make Florence, Italy -with a bonus trip to the Venice Biennale!

Join Nicole Collins and Anda Kubis, beloved Drawing and Painting faculty, for this intensive studio-based experience! Draw upon the wonders of Florentine history and immerse yourself in its rich contemporary culture. Open your eyes to the most cutting-edge art in the world with an important visit to the Venice Biennale. This two-week experience will infuse inspiration into your personal art practice, at whatever stage it may be.

Nicole and Anda will create a vibrant studio experience with enriching workshops, artistic feedback, and intensive critiques – all culminating in an open-house to show off your artistic production. Through prolific art practice you’ll build your portfolio and connect to a creative community. To spark content and gain context, you’ll visit historical sites and museums, with walking tours to capture the sights and textures of Florence through sketching and photography. Concentrated days to focus on self-directed artwork will be supported by the faculty and enjoyable engagement with your studio mates. Authentic Tuscan experiences await you - through an introductory Italian language class, wine tasting, and visits to artisan workshops.

Who should take this course:
This course is ideal for graduates of fine art programs (including OCAD U alumni), studio artists, individuals looking to reengage their art practice, as well as people looking to build their art portfolio. If you are looking for contemporary practice in a historically rich and inspiring environment, this course is for you!

Creativity Reboot for Educators
June 28th- July 5th, 2019
Duration: 1 week

Cost: $1750 Canadian
Register by May 17th, 2019

Our studio training for teachers program is designed to support a wide range of education professionals from around the world. This includes those delivering art programs at the secondary level, as well as anyone looking to incorporate arts-based learning into another curriculum. This one-week intensive program is based at OCAD U’s Florence campus studios and on-site at various key locations in the art and design community in Florence. The program will revolve around a series of workshops to develop artistic techniques and creative skills, as well as other activities that can be incorporated into class delivery, including tutorials on how to help students prepare art and design portfolios for application to post-secondary institutions or professional opportunities. Our program leaders will also facilitate group discussions around best practices, based around both case studies and shared stories from the group.

Who should take this course:
This course is ideal for secondary school instructors who also have an interest in studio art and design. This includes teachers who are individuals looking to reengage their art practice through studio time and access, as well as people looking to learn new approaches to studio making and teaching. This course will also cover best practices in supporting students pursuing future practices and post-secondary education in art and design, including portfolio preparation and art writing.

Register and learn more at: ocadu.ca/florence (including sample itineraries, images of our studio space and facilitator bios)