Children's and Teen Programs
![[NEW] Hand Lettering for Teens One-Day Workshop](https://varleyartgallery.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Varley_Hand-Lettering-for-Teens_Erica-Pinto_1-300x350.jpg)
Young artists will discover how to draw stylish letters by hand, perfect for decorating bullet journals, creating unique posters, and crafting personalized cards. The workshop will cover the basics of letter formation and give students a chance to experiment with various pens and styles. Students will create a beautifully hand-lettered quote to take home. No experience required.
Let your kids celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with fun, hands-on crafts! They’ll create colourful, holiday-inspired projects while exploring their creativity in a welcoming and inclusive space. Perfect for young artists to play, learn, and enjoy together.
Make this March Break unforgettable with creative camps at the Varley! Young artists will explore their imagination through hands-on art projects inspired by the gallery’s current exhibitions. Led by experienced instructors, these camps provide a mix of artistic techniques and engaging activities designed to spark creativity. Perfect for kids looking to learn, create, and make new friends in a welcoming environment.
Make this March Break unforgettable with creative camps at the Varley! Young artists will explore their imagination through hands-on art projects inspired by the gallery’s current exhibitions. Led by experienced instructors, these camps provide a mix of artistic techniques and engaging activities designed to spark creativity. Perfect for kids looking to learn, create, and make new friends in a welcoming environment.
Unlock your child’s creativity with Storyteller’s Studio, a 10-week art class designed to inspire young minds through hands-on exploration, learning, and fun! This Saturday class combines education and imagination, helping little artists develop fine motor skills, confidence, and a love for self-expression.
Each week, your child will:
- Discover new art techniques and concepts (colour theory, shapes, and patterns).
- Explore creative themes like nature, storytelling, and cultures around the world.
- Collaborate on exciting group projects to foster teamwork.
- Take home their own finished artworks, from vibrant paintings to textured collages.
The grand finale? A special art showcase where parents can celebrate their child’s artistic achievements! All materials are provided.
*No classes on June 7, 2025 due to Unionville Festival.
Perfect for young learners, this program combines playful exploration with foundational art education to spark curiosity and develop essential skills.
Each week, your child will:
- Explore a variety of materials like clay, textiles, and paint through guided, interactive projects.
- Learn key art concepts such as color, texture, and composition in an engaging and accessible way.
- Build problem-solving, fine motor skills, and confidence through hands-on creativity.
Set in an inspiring studio environment, this class fosters a love of learning and self-expression as kids create one-of-a-kind colourful art pieces. All materials are provided.
*No classes on June 7, 2025 due to Unionville Festival.
Perfect for curious young creators, this class offers a balance of education and hands-on activities to nurture artistic skills and confidence. The program culminates in an inspiring art showcase, where parents can admire their child’s portfolio and celebrate their artistic growth.
Each week, your child will:
- Dive deep into essential art elements like line, colour, texture, and space.
- Experiment with a variety of mediums, from drawing and painting to sculpture and mixed media.
- Learn techniques inspired by famous artists and global art traditions.
- Work on individual and collaborative projects that challenge creativity and problem-solving.
Encourage your child to explore their creativity while building a strong foundation in art and design. All materials are included.
*No classes on June 7, 2025 due to Unionville Festival.
This dynamic program invites young artists to explore the possibilities of three-dimensional art while learning essential techniques and building their skills.
Each week, your child will:
- Work with a variety of materials, including clay, wire, and recycled objects.
- Learn techniques like modeling, carving, and assembling to bring their ideas to life.
- Develop problem-solving, spatial awareness, and fine motor skills through engaging projects.
From abstract forms to imaginative creations, every session encourages self-expression and innovative thinking. Set in a collaborative studio environment, this class is perfect for children ready to explore the world of sculpture. All materials are included.
*No classes on June 7, 2025 due to Unionville Festival.
Introduce your little one to the wonders of the art studio. Perfect for curious minds, this program encourages creativity and exploration through a variety of materials and techniques.
Each week, your child will:
- Experiment with mixed media like paint, clay, paper, and recycled objects.
- Learn foundational art concepts such as colour, shape, and texture.
- Build confidence, motor skills, and creativity through fun and engaging projects.
In a nurturing studio environment, kids will create unique, imaginative masterpieces while discovering the joy of self-expression. All materials are included.
*No class on April 20 and June 8, 2025.
Join us at the Varley Art Gallery for a colourful, egg-citing adventure! Bring your imagination and get ready to paint, decorate, and bedazzle your very own Easter eggs in a fun and creative environment. Parents are welcome to explore the gallery while the little ones dive into this “egg-straordinary” art-making experience. All materials are included.
Get set for a week filled with artistic awesomeness tailored for the newest campers on the block! Our art camp is the perfect introduction for kids stepping into the camp world for the first time. They’ll dive into the fun with hands-on activities, captivating stories, catchy songs, and playful games. Kinder campers, who are new to the camp scene, are in for an exciting adventure as they explore new and challenging art techniques—all while making friends and learning through the magic of creative expression!
In this exciting camp, campers will dive into a world of creative possibilities, combining paint, paper, fabric, and more to create unique masterpieces. They’ll experiment with different textures, colors, and techniques, collaborating and sharing ideas along the way. It’s the perfect place for young artists to explore their imagination and connect with their inner creator!
In this hands-on mixed media camp, campers will experiment with a variety of materials, from paint and fabric to clay and found objects. They’ll combine different techniques to create one-of-a-kind artworks, exploring new ways to express themselves. Whether building a 3D sculpture or designing a vibrant collage, every day will be a new adventure in creativity!
Dive into the exciting worlds of comics and anime through hands-on activities, character design workshops, and interactive games. Tailored for budding artists, this camp is a vibrant blend of learning and fun, where every day is an adventure in storytelling and imagination.
Little artists will have a blast discovering the magic of colours! They’ll explore how to mix and blend different hues, creating beautiful and fun artworks. Through playful activities like painting, colouring, and experimenting with new colour combinations, kids will not only sharpen their artistic skills but also learn how colours can express feelings and tell stories.
In this fun-filled camp, kids will explore the world of colours, shapes, and textures through simple, hands-on projects like drawing, painting, and crafting. With a focus on play and exploration, they’ll use easy-to-handle materials to create their very own masterpieces. It’s the perfect space for budding artists to express themselves, build confidence, and have a blast making art!
Campers explore the tradition of storytelling to create and tell stories of their own. Through careful design and 3-dimensional sculpture, your child will learn the unique ways in which artists may share their stories through form.
Campers put the “A” in STEAM this summer at the Varley as they look at science, technology, engineering, and math through an artist’s lens. Using a variety of media, and colourful experiments campers will test their creative limits!
Our camp is a haven for young artists to explore the enchanting world of crafting creatures, from fantastical beasts to friendly critters. Through a mix of painting, sculpting, and imaginative projects, kids will bring their crafty critters to life, fostering both artistic skills and a love for imaginative expression. Join us for a summer filled with laughter, creativity, and a gallery of delightful critters crafted by your child’s hands!
Using a variety of painting materials, campers will experiment with fun techniques like splattering, brushing, and blending to create colourful, imaginative works of art. They’ll explore different styles, from abstract to nature-inspired, while learning the basics of paint mixing and texture. It’s all about having fun with colours, exploring new ideas, and discovering the joy of creating through paint!
At Creative Canvas, young artists will unleash their imagination on canvas, exploring a variety of painting techniques and styles. From vibrant abstract art to beautiful landscapes and portraits, campers will experiment with acrylics, tempera, and other fun materials. They’ll learn how to blend colors, create texture, and bring their ideas to life with each brushstroke.
Campers will explore the art of capturing stunning images using any camera, whether it’s a smartphone, digital camera, or tablet. They’ll learn how to experiment with different angles, lighting, and compositions to tell their own visual stories. With a focus on creativity over technicalities, kids will discover how to take amazing photos, express their ideas, and have fun doing it. No matter what camera you bring, this camp is all about the art of seeing the world through a lens!
Through playful activities and hands-on experiences, campers will unleash their creativity while learning about colours, shapes, and famous artists. From finger painting to collaborative mural projects, every day is a masterpiece in the making at Mini Painters. Join us for a brush with fun and inspiration!
Young artists will delve into the secrets of colour, discovering the art of blending, shading, and harmonizing hues to create stunning masterpieces. Through a variety of hands-on activities, from painting vibrant landscapes to experimenting with unique colour combinations, campers will not only enhance their artistic skills but also develop a keen understanding of the emotional and expressive power of colour.
In this collaborative art camp, campers will work together to design and paint a stunning mural, experimenting with a variety of painting, drawing, and design techniques. While teamwork is key, each camper will also have the chance to create their own individual art pieces that will be incorporated into the final mural, giving them ownership of the project. With guidance from skilled instructors, they’ll learn about composition, colour theory, and how to bring big ideas to life on a large canvas.
Delve into the world of drawing, painting, and printmaking amidst the inspiring backdrop of nature. From sketching beneath the rustling leaves to crafting eco-friendly masterpieces, our camp fosters a love for both art and the environment, ensuring every stroke and print leaves a positive mark on the canvas of their imagination. Join us for an unforgettable experience where young artists not only create beautiful works but also cultivate an appreciation for the natural world around them.
This camp invites your child on a creative journey exploring fantastical lands, mythical creatures, and enchanted stories through their art. It includes projects like designing magical landscapes, creating imaginary creatures, and illustrating whimsical adventures, making this art camp lots of fun and full of imagination!
Dive into a Kaleidoscope of Creativity at Discovery Studio! Our camp is a whirlwind of colour-filled fun, where young artists unleash their imagination through vibrant projects, interactive games, and hands-on experiments. Join us for a week of laughter, learning, and a splash of artistic magic!
Young artists will delve into the secrets of colour, discovering the art of blending, shading, and harmonizing hues to create stunning masterpieces. Through a variety of hands-on activities, from painting vibrant landscapes to experimenting with unique colour combinations, campers will not only enhance their artistic skills but also develop a keen understanding of the emotional and expressive power of colour. Join us for a transformative journey where every stroke opens up a world of possibilities and fuels a lifelong love for the language of colours.
Campers will sketch their own clothing designs, learn about colours, patterns, and trends, and bring their ideas to life through creative activities. Each day explores a new theme, from streetwear to runway looks, as kids discover how fashion connects with art, culture, and self-expression. Fun challenges and group projects make this week a perfect fit for young fashion enthusiasts. No sewing skills needed—just bring your creativity!
An art adventure awaits at the Varley! Inspired by Fred Varley, Emily Carr, and Canadian En Plein air artists, campers use the outdoors as a place to be inspired to create finished artworks.
Campers will use their imagination to create superhero characters, complete with unique powers, costumes, and accessories. They’ll craft personalized superhero masks, shields, and capes, as well as sculpt superhero figures out of clay. This hands-on experience lets kids bring their superheroes to life in their own way!
Campers will dive into the world of iconic artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet, creating their own masterpieces through painting, drawing, and clay modeling. Each day focuses on a different artist and technique, inspiring kids to express their creativity while learning new skills and having fun!
Dive into a creative adventure where your little artists will transform ordinary canvases, exploring the boundless world of color and form. MegaMasterpieces Camp is not just an art camp; it’s a larger-than-life experience for your child to create massive paintings, fostering big art, big fun, and big memories! Watch as their imagination blossoms into breathtaking masterpieces that will leave a lasting impression.
An art adventure awaits at the Varley! Inspired by Fred Varley, Emily Carr, and Canadian En Plein air artists, campers use the outdoors as a place to be inspired to create finished artworks.
Dive into a creative adventure where your little artists will transform ordinary canvases and sculpt with wild abandon, exploring the boundless world of colour and form. MegaMasterpieces Camp is not just an art camp; it’s a larger-than-life experience for your child to create massive paintings or sculptures, fostering big art, big fun, and big memories! Watch as their imagination blossoms into breathtaking masterpieces that will leave a lasting impression.
In this engaging and challenging camp, artists collaborate to make a stop-motion film. A final show for parents and guardians celebrate your campers hard work, and creativity. Some materials provided; Campers are required to bring their own laptop, digital camera and USB stick.
Children spend a week preparing a theatrical performance for their family and friends. Campers collaborate to design costumes, make props, and build instruments to complete the show!
Embark on a whimsical adventure at Crafty Critters Camp! Our camp is a haven for young artists to explore the enchanting world of crafting creatures, from fantastical beasts to friendly critters. Through a mix of painting, sculpting, and imaginative projects, kids will bring their crafty critters to life, fostering both artistic skills and a love for imaginative expression. Join us for a summer filled with laughter, creativity, and a gallery of delightful critters crafted by your child’s hands!
Campers will use their imagination to create superhero characters, complete with unique powers, costumes, and accessories. They’ll craft personalized superhero masks, shields, and capes, as well as sculpt superhero figures out of clay. This hands-on experience lets kids bring their superheroes to life in their own way!
In this camp, campers will focus on building a strong art portfolio that showcases both their creativity and technical skills. Through a variety of hands-on projects, they’ll explore different art forms and learn essential techniques to improve their craft. From mastering new materials to refining their artistic style, kids will gain the tools they need to present their work professionally. By the end of the week, they’ll have a polished portfolio that highlights their growth and passion for art. Perfect for aspiring artists who want to take their skills to the next level!
Nurture your child’s imagination through creative play. Using a variety of media, children are encouraged to express their thoughts and emotions about the world around them.
Through sculpture, painting, drawing and more, instructors help your little artist build confidence, practice decision-making and develop fine motor skills. Designed for children with active imaginations and a keen interest in expressing themselves through art.
All materials provided.
No class on March 15, 2025 due to March Break.
Working in a variety of media, kids with a passion for art will learn how to apply the elements of design and principles of art in their creative practices.
Through gallery tours and experiments in the studio, young artists will develop strong visual literacy to understand the fundamentals of art. Studying line, shape, form, and texture, along with rhythm, balance, proportion, and movement, children create final artworks you’ll want to frame and display.
All materials provided.
No class on March 15, 2025 due to March Break.
As they journey through the gallery and discover the studio, children explore their creativity to create one-of-a-kind, inspired, works of art. Designed for kids who love to experiment and play, your little one will have a blast learning how to work with mixed media.
From painting with modeling clay, to drawing with textiles, instructors encourage self-expression as they help your child practice problem solving and communication skills. Take an art adventure at the Varley!
All materials provided.
No class on March 15, 2025 due to March Break.
Take your child’s imagination and creativity to the next level.
Instructors challenge and guide your young artist through the elements of 3D design; space, shape and volume to help them build and sculpt from a variety of mediums.
Through clay, recyclable materials, and everyday objects, instructors emphasize creative thinking and exploration of materials. Children also develop problem solving, communication, and social skills as they collaborate on projects.
All materials included.
No class on March 15, 2025 due to March Break.
Whether they’re finger painting at the kitchen table, or sketching on the bedroom wall, children were born to create.
Bring your little artist to the Varley for their first art studio experience. In a safe and inclusive environment, our friendly instructors guide your child through fun and imaginative art projects that build confidence, language, and thinking skills, emotional understanding and self-expression.
All materials provided.
No class on March 16, 2025 due to March Break.
Spend your P. A. Day at the Varley Art Gallery and get hands-on in our art studio.
Children explore the gallery before starting on a variety of projects with paints, pastels, and more. Students will develop visual literacy skills, while practicing communication, decision-making and problem solving skills.
Emphasis is placed on the creative process and self-expression as they draw, paint and sculpt the day away!
All materials included.
Please pack a nut-free snack and lunch.
Spend your P. A. Day at the Varley Art Gallery and get hands-on in our art studio.
Children explore the gallery before starting on a variety of projects with paints, pastels, and more. Students will develop visual literacy skills, while practicing communication, decision-making and problem solving skills.
Emphasis is placed on the creative process and self-expression as they draw, paint and sculpt the day away!
All materials included.
Please pack a nut-free snack and lunch.
This Valentine’s day, come into the studio and make fun, unique and even silly gifts with us! Show love to your parents, teachers, and friends by giving them a special Varley Valentine.
All materials included.
Join us at the Varley this Family Day for a collaborative canvas challenge! In this fun and educational gallery experience, families get a private tour before heading to the studio to complete a painting inspired by our current exhibitions. Work together to bring home a finished painting! Note: Children must be at least 4 years of age to participate.
Register for Program
Registration:
Sign up for classes by clicking the button to the left or call the City of Markham’s Contact Centre at 905.475.4731 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM).
Members and Seniors Save:
Become a Varley member and save 10 % on all programs at the Varley. Seniors save 30%.
Accessibility
If you, or your child require accommodations, contact Public Program Coordinator, Rachel D’Oliveira Fell at rdoliveirafell@markham.ca.
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