I’ve recently come across so many local organizations and colleagues that are really stepping up on initiatives to help people maintain an artistic practice during these crazy times. I decided to start compiling a list (see below). If you’ve heard of something local I have not listed, please let me know. I want to keep updating this!
Let’s try to keep our creative juices going. While practicing safe social distancing during Covid-19.
Alice Carter Illustration
Local illustrator, writer, and arts educator has put up free printable colouring and activity pages for kids from her books online!
Arts Network Ottawa / Réseau des arts d’Ottawa
COVID-19 Resources for Artists
Patti Normand – Sculpture classes from home
Learn sculpture from home from Patti’s new online sculpture from home class!
Creative Mornings Ottawa
A free monthly breakfast lecture series designed for creative communities. And they’ve moved online!
Crystal Beshara
Local artist and instructor, Crystal has opened up access to free classes on her website. She is also revamping her youtube channel and offering one-on-on art coaching.
- Free stuff: http://crystalbeshara.com/freestepbystep?fbclid=IwAR3_KltTMoyXjwVeacS2h17jPfl8htYlSdbHdmJfsegV1kSxDPZCpzWe7no
- Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1Zpifol_48&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR2uiy0fuRMMBVnb6ZeA4DZ0FC_vJXkA-NaEvaCFXAm3I_xMoW_SeNWHtLQ
- One-on-one art coaching: http://crystalbeshara.com/one-on-one-coaching-new?fbclid=IwAR3ZrGwlr0l3kKTdcRHbrm8FLG3qRi1sSoW6oAYezJI9iCJAxWjW3WZRafg
8thgeneration Storytelling
Ottawa based storytelling company that uses the art of oral tradition as a tool for transforming and inspiring lives. Local performer and artist, Jaqui Du Toit is giving LIVE storytelling (interactive and engaging for all ages) on their Instagram live feed.
100 Watt Productions in partnership with Ottawa Children’s Theatre
Actor, Artistic Director, instructor, musician & former dancer, Kristina Watt is now offering online classes for youth from ages 6 to 17! The classes are 5 weeks, from May 19 – June 21. Classes include, for example, “Essential Play, Essential Laughter,” “Finding Sense through Stories,” and “Young Theatre Critics”!
Ladies Drawing Night Ottawa
Weekly virtual drawing meetups from Ottawa! Ladies Drawing Night is for women looking to deepen their creative connections and expressions. Have fun & make new friends.
Laura Hanek
Owner of Swoop Media – a graphic recorder, designer, illustrator, pet sitter and foodie in-training from the Ottawa Valley is giving free and paid Arts related Zoom classes and meetings.
Maya Hum
This is me! haha. I have moved my art classes online. FREE and affordable options available!
Ottawa School of Art’s Covid-19 Art Survival Guide:
This art survival guide features links to artistic and creative resources, projects, and demos developed by friends of the school, partners in the community, or other art institutions across the nation. This list is dynamic and will continue to be updated regularly.
Ottawa Children’s Theatre
Has launched OCT Live Online! A number of creative/performance arts classes being offered from ages 4 to 18.
Renaissance Tutoring
Daily activities for children and teens, to do on their own or with their caregivers from local visual artist and teacher, Markia Jemma.
Urban Sketchers Ottawa
Always sharing art, news & events. Free for all sketchers, living in the city.
Watercolour613
Local artist Andrew Elena has great online classes:
Maya Hum 