Fibre Arts

Challenge your perception of what can be created with textiles. Learn how fabric is made, how it behaves, and how to design, construct and manipulate it. Participate in the hands-on discovery of the science and techniques of fabric dyeing and pigmentation with some of Canada’s most respected fibre artists. You’ll explore fibre science, dye and pigments, needle work, surface design, embellishments, project designs and execution. Increasingly challenging projects will help you to meet your creative potential, and courses in design, colour, drawing and textile history will round out your education.

In our dedicated studio you will have your own space to create and investigate the many dimensions and techniques of this art form. The studio is fully-equipped with industrial sewing machines and irons, sergers, a spinning wheel and looms. Develop your skills in our dye lab and professional-level darkroom, which has an over-sized vacuum table and equipment for silkscreening fabrics.

Equivalent to two semesters of full-time study, our intensive 15-week certificate programs provide over 600 hours of hands-on studio time. Each week you will work alongside a different faculty member who brings their unique perspective and expertise within the discipline to the studio. Limited enrolment ensures you have access to equipment and time to interact with faculty. You will also benefit from the guidance of experienced studio technicians and extended hours in the studio after class.

Our school is a leader in providing unique and flexible art and design education. Learn from professionals who have shaped art, craft and design in Canada at a campus that provides the best possible hands-on studio experience. Create in a spectacular natural environment, supported by dedicated faculty and a welcoming community of resident artists and designers. Graduate with a solid portfolio to take you to the next step in your art career – whether that is continuing education, starting your own practice or entering the workforce.

Graduates are working as fabric designers, weavers and educators.

Yvonne Iten-Scott, now a faculty member with HSAD, is the recipient of the 2024 Founders Cup from the International Guild of Handhooking Rugmakers and has won multiple awards for her work from the Ontario Rug Hooking Guild and the Ontario Hooking Craft Guild. She teaches creative workshops and hosts fibre retreats at her farm, which is also home to her studio.

"The faculty were working artists who were passionate about their subject be it weaving, dyeing or quilting. Their enthusiasm spilled over into their teaching... I loved my time at HSAD and knew when I graduated my affiliation with the school wouldn’t end." - Yvonne Iten-Scott

This 15-week certificate can be applied to the Visual and Creative Arts Diploma.

There will be additional expenses of approximately $700 for tools and equipment in addition to the material fee included in the tuition.

Students who graduate from an art certificate program can earn their Visual and Creative Arts diploma (VCAD).

Visual and Creative Arts diploma graduates have the opportunity to pursue more advanced studies through our many articulation agreements with leading art education institutions across Canada and in the United States.

• Use the principles and elements of two and three-dimensional design and the design process for the conception, construction and assessment of studio works.
• Construct two and three-dimensional forms from both traditional and non-traditional fibre based materials.
• Critique the effectiveness of both form and content of works in fibre media in both group and individual discussions.
• Use the characteristic properties of fibre materials in the design, formation, and assessment of studio works.
• Present researched information about historical and contemporary fibre artists, their works, and fibre processes to faculty and peers.
• Use tools, equipment and studio appropriately and maintain them in optimum condition.
• Identify personal interests that may develop into themes in visual style and content of works in fibre arts.
• Manage the health and safety risks and environmental impacts of specific materials, processes, and equipment used by fibre artists.
• Collect and organize an ongoing set of samples of fibres, fabrics and related process techniques for future reference.
• Develop a basic portfolio and artists documents that can be maintained and updated for promotional and application purposes such as grants, commissions and juried shows.

Students applying to Fibre Arts must meet the following requirements:

• OSSD including Gr 12 C English