Aboriginal Art Certificate

Program Description: The Aboriginal Art Certificate is a one year certificate that will provide learners with the unique opportunity to study Aboriginal art forms as well as other media and to experience learning in a studio environment. This program is designed to provide a solid knowledge base in traditional Aboriginal art forms as well as introductory level theory and skills in a variety of other fine art and craft media. Students will learn traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art forms such as beading, carving, footwear, sewing and hide tanning as well as the cultural and historic significance of these art forms. Learners will be given the opportunity to work with a number of mediums in order to explore and discover their own artistic passion and interest through project-based study. Included in these exploratory courses is Digital Art which will offer learners the basics in this exciting and growing art form. The courses are designed to introduce and develop specific techniques and design so that learners create works inspired by traditional and contemporary approaches. The focus of the program is on developing skills and exploring media. Knowledge and skills in professional practice will be taught for promotion of the artist's work through exposure and sales. In addition learners will have the opportunity to work with an artist from the visiting art's program. This certificate prepares learners for further study in Portage College diploma programs through the development of a portfolio that documents artistic and professional development. The certificate also provides learners with prior post-secondary education the opportunity to study and learn traditional Aboriginal art forms and culture for work in Aboriginal communities, with Aboriginal populations, for their own artistic development or a variety of other situations.