Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I contact you?

A: Please use the “Contact” button on this website or write to us via email. As email is our main form of communication between Atelier and student, please ensure that your email is on file and up to date.

Q: Can I visit the studio before signing up?

A: Yes, you may contact us to arrange a studio visit. This is a private teaching studio and we are not open to drop-in visits.

Q: How long does it take to complete the Program?

A: We have 3 Programs.  Typically it takes 18 months to complete one Program, but this depends entirely on the speed at which the individual student completes each assignment to the required level.

Q: How do I register?

A: Please go to the Registration page, and fill out which courses you’d like to take.

Q: How do I ensure my spot in a class?

A: Your spot will be reserved and confirmed to you once your payment and registration details are received.

Q: How do I pay?

A: Once you have corresponded with us and confirmed the classes you are attending, we will send you an email with instructions on how and where to send the class fee via Interac e-transfer.

Q: Can I pay by credit card?

A: No.  Currently we do not have that facility.

Q: Can I pay by cheque or by Interac e-transfer?

A: Yes. Please contact us for instructions on this.

Q: Can I sign up on a monthly basis, rather than for the whole semester?

A: Yes, please contact us to confirm the monthly fee for the course you’d like to take. Please remember that priority is given to semester and returning students, and space is limited. We will offer monthly students whatever spaces remain after semester registration is complete.

Q: Can I pay for single sessions at a time ?

A: No. Please book for the whole month or whole term as the Atelier needs to plan for class numbers.

Q: Can I get a refund?

A: Students can withdraw from a class or workshop with 3 business days’ notice prior to the start of the first session. We will give you a 50% refund of tuition fee. In all other cases, fees are non-refundable.

Q: Can I get a credit for classes missed?

A: Credit is not given for sessions missed. It is the student’s responsibility to attend all sessions booked and paid for.

Q: If I am ill, should I let the teacher know?

A: Yes, please email or text your teacher about your absence.

Q: If I am late, should I let the teacher know?

A: Yes, please text the teacher about this.

Q: How many students are there in a class?

A: The exact size varies, but the typical class size is usually 10 students.

Q: Is there a minimum number of students for a class or workshop?

A: Not for classes, but for workshops there is a minimum. If the minimum number is not reached, we will cancel the workshop with 3 days’s notice, and issue you a full refund.

Q: What happens if a class is full?

A: You can ask to be placed on a waitlist. If a spot opens up, we’ll contact you immediately. There is no cost or obligation to go on the waitlist.

Q: What supplies will I need?

A: Supplies differ from one class to another, and your exact supply list will be emailed to you with your confirmation of registration.

Q: What are the pre-requisites?

A: Typically there aren’t any for most of the beginner classes and workshops. We believe that we can teach anyone to draw and paint !

Q: Is there an age restriction?

A: You should be 18 years or older.  But we make special exceptions for younger students, and will ask your parent or guardian to provide us with a letter of consent.

Q: Are materials provided?

A: The studio has easels and boards for your use. You will be sent a supplies list for everything else, and you are asked to bring all your own supplies.  We have some extras at the studio which you can purchase or borrow, depending on the item, but it’s best you buy your supplies at an art store beforehand.

Q: Is there a language requirement?

A: We’d like you to have proficiency in English, so you can understand the teacher’s instructions and explanations.  Mandy can teach you in French, and Bruno can teach you in Portuguese.

Q: Is there a Lost Property?

A: We don’t have the space to keep lost items.  Please ensure you put your name on all your materials, especially since students have the same standard items, such as Xacto knives and pencils.  If your things are found with your name on, we can keep them for a short time and notify you to come and pick up your items.  We are not responsible for lost or damaged items.

Q: Where is the studio?

A: It’s located near Main and East 2nd Avenue in Vancouver, near the Science World skytrain.

Q: Is there parking at the studio?

A: There is street parking, but please make sure you observe city by-laws, especially near a curb.

Q: What time should I arrive at the studio?

A: Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the class start time. Please don’t arrive earlier than that, as teachers are setting up the room and busy with preparing for class.

Q: Can I stay after class to talk with the teacher?

A: Please ask all your questions during class time. Your questions may be very relevant to other students. If you have personal questions, please contact us via email. The teacher will normally be busy preparing for the next class and eating his or her lunch or dinner, so please be respectful of the teacher’s private time.

Q: What are class times?

A: Class times are Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 2-5pm. Evening classes are Sunday 6-9pm. Monday, and Tuesday 6:30pm-9:30pm and Wednesday 6-9pm.

Weekend Workshops are 10am-5pm on Saturdays with a one hour lunch (studio is closed) and 10am-1pm on Sundays (please see exact schedule).

Q: Can I eat my lunch or dinner in the studio?

A: You can bring a snack (e. a protein bar) to eat during class time, but the studio is not open during lunchtimes, or before or after class. If you are in a workshop, a list of  nearby restaurants and cafes will be supplied to you. There are also a couple of parks nearby if you prefer to eat your sandwich outdoors.

Q: Can I use the kitchen facilities?

A: This is a private studio. Items in the fridge, dishes, cups, etc are the private property belonging to the teachers. Please don’t help yourself to any of these items. If you are attending a weekend workshop, or have dietary needs such as frequent consumption, you may store your sandwiches/food in the fridge for consumption that day. After your food/drink, please dispose of wrapping, napkins etc, and take your recycling away with you. If you happen to use a cup or spoon that belongs to the studio, please take it to the sink and wash it. Please be respectful.

Q: Can I bring a drink to the studio?

A: Yes, but it must be in a no-spill container with a lid.  If you spill your drink, please clean it up right away to avoid accidents for fellow students and damage to the laminate floor.

Q: Are there special rules for painting in the studio?

A: Yes, and this list will be sent to those students who are painting.

Q: Can I ask for guidance in my art career or portfolio preparation?

A: Yes, you can book a mentoring session with Mandy.  Please contact by email to arrange date, time and payment.