Arts on Fire

Designed for ages 8+ who want to strengthen their art fundamentals and begin building a portfolio. Previous experience in painting, or in our Kids Art or Youth Art programs are an asset but not required. This is the perfect place to start your professional painting journey.

What They’ll Learn

In this progressive, skill-building course, students will:

• Learn the building blocks of painting through hands-on projects in colour mixing, brushwork and texture
• Understand proper brush care and maintenance
• Students will paint still life, explore abstract styles and colour studies
• Brush control and composition
• Build confidence in their ability to observe, analyze, and reproduce what they see onto canvas

Why It Matters

Strong painting begins with mastery of fundamentals. This course provides a structured approach to essential concepts that form the technical backbone of painting. By focusing on core concepts such as colour mixing, brushwork, textures, control, and observation, students develop the discipline needed to progress into more advanced techniques and produce higher-quality, portfolio-ready work.

Instructor Bio

Led by Mira Armstrong, an OCAD graduate and professional artist with many years of experience teaching all age groups. Mira is technically gifted and skilled at translating her knowledge into lessons students can easily grasp — balancing professional techniques with an encouraging approach.

End Experience

Students will complete a series of smaller projects — including still life, abstract, and color-focused studies — culminating in a final painting that applies all learned techniques. This piece is designed to demonstrate brush control, composition, and color mastery, making it a strong addition to their portfolio.

What’s Included

✔ All painting materials included (paints, brushes, canvas/paper, palettes)

✔ Makeup lessons for any missed classes

Class Format & Schedule

🗓 7-week course
📅Mondays 6:30 - 8pm. Nov 3, 10, 17, 24. Dec 1, 8, 15
📍 Arts on Fire Studio, Ajax
(Classes are progressive, attendance starting from day 1 of the course is required. Exceptions are possible based on instructor's discretion)

🔴 Portfolio Track

• ⏱️ Duration: 1.5 hours per class | 7 - 12 sessions
• 📚 Levels: Foundations, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3
• ✅ Join Policy: Start at the beginning of a session (mid-session entry possible with instructor approval)
• 🎓 Progression: Previous level required unless assessed by instructor