In-depth courses on expressive realism and disrupted realism techniques for portrait artists.
Hands-on workshops focusing on color, brush strokes, and dynamic mark-making inspired by artists like Jenny Saville.
Structured virtual classes with weekly Zoom sessions, lectures, and personalized feedback from instructors.
Interactive studio sessions in Vancouver for immersive learning and community building.
Specialized seminars covering palette setup, anatomy, color theory, and creative processes.
Just completed a Jenny Saville / Expressive Mark Making 2 -day course- fantastic! Such a fun way to learn, with a massive flow of info, energy and support from the instructor Justin, all within an encouraging class format. I highly recommend Canvas Method - the House of Yes. Just completed an excellent course at Canvas Method with Justin Ogilvie (Creative Portrait Painting: Expressive Realism). So much energy and fun. - I learned so much , from the basics of setting up the palette and materials, to brush stroke, anatomy and colour. It has kickstarted my practice into another gear- highly recommended!
I just finished the last class of Justin Oglilvie’s on-line course, “Creative Portrait Painting: Disrupted Realism” and my head and heart still feel full after this stellar experience! I am an Art Historian by training, but had gotten away from many aesthetic ideas over the last 30 years – and this fully enriching experience brought me back to the issues/questions/ideas that I love – and, essentially, brought me back to me!! If you are interested in studying painting or drawing as a fairly serious endeavor – with on-line lectures and demonstrations followed by weekly zoom meetings with everyone in the group, this course is for you! If this kind of schedule might not work for you, Canvas Method offers myriad other classes that would interest anyone who wants to enrich their lives by learning about and creating art. As Anni Albers said, “art has the ability to elevate our lives – allowing us to experience joy in a unique and profound way.” Working with teachers at Canvas Method will highlight for you the deep connection between creativity and your life experience. I now am enrolled in Justin’s seminar, "Jenny Saville: Expressive Colour and Mark Making” that will take place this weekend. Lucky me!!
Taking Justin’s Disrupted Realism class was a rewarding experience. I appreciated the process of breaking down and reconstructing my work. It was an exercise in being courageous and painting over parts of the original underpainting that once felt perfect, but it became a powerful exercise in both letting go and building up. Justin was patient and communicative in his teaching. Through this process, I learned not only new techniques but also a more fluid and fearless approach to creating art.
I took an online course “Disrupted Realism” with mentor Justin. I highly recommend this workshop to everyone who is willing to put sincere efforts throughout the course. In my experience: 1. Courses is very well planned giving sufficient time to work on the assignments. 2. Very cheerful and motivating feedback sessions. 3. I could see a big transformation in my artwork and creative thinking while approaching a drawing / painting. 4. It helped me a lot to push boundaries while painting at the same time, understanding the process thoroughly marking conscious decisions.
I recently took the 3-day Creative Portrait Painting course with Justin Ogilvie at Canvas Method and had a wonderful experience. I initially felt like something of an imposter as my portrait skills were minimal, but Justin met every participant at their own level. He is a focused and skilled instructor, and quickly established a warm and playful community amongst the group. I am so looking forward to continuing to learn with you Justin. I will see you in Italy in May for more Creative Portrait Painting!

Unlock your creative potential with expert-led art courses in Vancouver.
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Canvas Method is a premier art studio in Vancouver offering immersive painting and drawing courses led by experienced instructors like Justin Ogilvie. We specialize in expressive realism, disrupted realism, and mark-making techniques, catering to both beginners and advanced artists. Our supportive, community-focused environment encourages creative growth through well-structured workshops, online classes, and in-person sessions. Join us to elevate your artistic practice and connect with fellow creatives in a dynamic learning space.
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