Where do my children do their creation?

In a socially distanced (just by the nature of the space) with art donkeys and/or large tables.

In rare events, when using paper twice our size, we might spread out on the wood floor.

Can I drop-in/try-out?

We book a minimum of one month for classes, as the students need time to ease in (ie,'drive through art' is not the style we follow, it is a cumulative process)

What are your art classes about?

Art classes involve focus, incremental learning, and methodical process. Projects take anywhere from 1-3 week sessions, with roughly 20 projects total per year, per student. The lessons are based on anything from animation drawing (character design), Photoshop and digital painting, watercolour painting, acrylic painting, pencil-crayon, perspective drawing, pencil studies and shading, still-life, sculpture, and are structured to accommodate many tastes. Many of the lesson aims require years of mastery, so the students come to understand patience and incremental recognition of success.

The video game class, due to the small class size, is student driven with each student working on their own projects. Usually students start with an introduction to game programming using a simplified programming language that uses drag and drop blocks to code. After making a few simple scratch games students enter RPG creation where they can make their own old school final fantasy like games.  Once we get an idea of their interests and skill level they choose what kind of game they want to make.  Students do 2d animation, pixel animation and Photoshop, which can then be used in their games. If you have any more questions feel free to ask.

How/where are payments done?

Online through the registration site.

Are there make-up classes?

Rest assured, we have 2 weeks of 'make-up' classes set aside for snow storms, etc., as annual students receive a lump sum of 33 classes.

If a child MISSES a class, they have the option of joining another that week to make up for the class they missed.

Do you offer events?

Here is the rundown I send to everyone who asks about the events:

I offer 'paint nite' style paintings, step by step (you name a theme, and I can send you some samples to choose from)as well as art projects. Just mentioning this as a help to the info below...

Option 1)The Caricature party: Julie will sketch caricatures of each child in attendance, which they can keep. It usually lasts about one - one and a half hours, until all children are drawn.

Option 2) The Art/Digital party: We will guide the kids in a cool art project (all materials supplied). This usually lasts about 2 - 2.5 hours.

Suggested themes for the Art party can be anything (ie, Paint nite style as well): the parties can always be tailored to the child's interests. Julie will forward a sample list of images, upon booking, to the parents (well in advance) for the children to choose a project they like.

The location of the party is the decision of the host. Most people choose to have the parties in their homes/location, but Julie also has a studio with 10 spaces of off-street parking at 736 Water Street, open for light parties as well.

There is no monetary deposit required, once you book, your time is secured. However we DO insist that children sit when they eat. Some of the material in the studio is irreplaceable, so we ask for respect to the space, especially when it comes to permanent damage. If an attendee is being disrespectful (i.e. drawing on walls, spraying water, running/throwing paint) , we must ask them to leave, and pay an appropriate damage deposit.

For a studio rental: all that you need to provide is the children, food, cake, and plates, napkins, cups, tablecloths, etc, I have all the tables and seating set up. There is also a microwave and small oven, and a small fridge there if you need. Please keep food contained to the area when eating ‘happens,’ so we can keep a productive, clean space for all!

Do you rent out your space?

Yes, we do! Especially to artists and retreat groups! Get in touch here.

Do you have a code of conduct?

Yes!

SassyTuna Rules of Conduct:

  • Good art takes time and focus
  • Breathe when you get addled
  • Be positive & respectful (respect means ‘to look again’)Studio space is not a gymnasium
  • Keep audio level down
  • Be on time (Not too early or too late)Mental & personal space is required
  • Take care of materials
  • Clean up after yourself
  • Touch with your EYES ONLY (especially if you see a ‘no touch’ sign)

Is there a waiting area?

We encourage parents to pickup and drop off students promptly, and we have a 12-car parking lot next to the door for safe travels.

Are materials included?

We supply all materials, easels, computers, and licenses.

However, for 2 weeks of the year, in art, and more frequently in animation, we ask students to bring in tablets/chromebooks/laptops, if they have them, else we supply. In this way, students become comfortable with their own tools as well.

How long do projects take?

1-3 weeks; longest have taken 4 weeks.

What is the time frame of the classes?

45-90 minutes, depending on the time of the class chosen.

View our classes

Find something for your child or maybe even yourself!