FAQ

Advertising - Account Management Advertising Media Management Book + Magazine Publishing Children's Entertainment: Writing, Production and Management Corporate Communications + Public Relations Interactive Digital Media Journalism Fast-Track Media Engineering Design Integration Sports Journalism
About Centennial
Established as Toronto's first public college in 1966, Centennial College offers programs in business, communications, community and health studies, science and engineering technology, general arts, hospitality and transportation.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Students are encouraged to discover their own direction

How is this program different from other Fine Art programs?

Centennial’s Fine Arts Studio program wants you to get your hands dirty – drawing, painting, sculpting, thinking, creating. This is a two year diploma program that will have you spending more time in the studio than most degree courses do in four years. You will experience small classes with an emphasis on one on one attention.  Working from the human figure features prominently in learning the basics, but as a platform from which to launch your own creative vision.

We are centrally located in Toronto, Canada’s most vibrant cultural environment with access to museums, galleries and design centers. We are at Centennial’s Centre for Creative Communications, one of the foremost multimedia education facilities in the country.

What is required for admission?

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) or 19 years of age or older
  • Interview with Portfolio – four to fifteen pieces required
  • Admission is based on two criteria
    • Technical skill
    • a demonstrable passion for the fine arts
  • English 160/161 (or equivalent preparation such as a minimum of 65% in grade 12C English)
  • Previous art and design experience, including secondary school courses and experience. Students may complete the Art and Design Foundation Studies program or its equivalent for admission purposes. Applicants who do not possess the appropriate competencies for success in the Fine Art Studio program will be advised to complete the Art and Design Foundation Studies program or its equivalent.
  • Not sure if you meet the criteria?
    Click here, to contact the Fine Art Studio Program coordinator.

 What should the portfolio consist of?

  • Your portfolio should consist of no less than four and no more than fifteen pieces.
  • Sketchbooks count as one item
  • Examples from each of the following items are recommended:
    • Figure drawings: a selection from one to ten figure drawings can count as one portfolio piece.
    • Colour work: colour work may be abstract, figurative or objective.
    • Perspective: the portfolio should demonstrate ability to apply basic principles of linear perspective in freehand drawing and/or painting, and could consist of examples such as furniture, interiors, or cityscapes.
    • Sketchbooks: idea books and journals are included as sketchbooks.
  • The following are optional: sculpture and 3D work; printmaking; photography; creative writing; crafts; experimental work such as documented performance art, documented installations, computer-generated artwork, videos, etc.
  • Portfolios can be presented in original form, print reproductions, or digital formats. Please, NO websites. Reproductions can be in the form of prints or jpgs on memory sticks or CDs.
  • Not sure about portfolio requirements?
    Click here, to contact the Fine Art Studio Program coordinator.

 When should I apply?

  • The Fine Art Studio program is accepting applications right NOW for the next September intake. It is expected that the limited number of seats in this program (20 to 25 students) will fill quickly, so apply now through www.ontariocolleges.ca. The program name is Fine Art Studio, and the code is 6421.
  • Once your application is processed, you will be invited to Centennial College for an information and interview session.

 How are students selected for the program?

  • Serious fine arts students are very special people, demonstrating not only skill but the desire to be a fine artist. Positions in the program are based on two factors 1) an aptitude for drawing, painting and sculpture as shown in your portfolio; 2) and a demonstrable passion for and commitment to the fine arts as shown by experience, attitude and expectations. Both factors will be assessed during the portfolio interview.

How many students are accepted?

  • This is a focused, immersion program dedicated to excellence in terms of skills development, and accepts 20 to 25 select students into each semester. Students will benefit from a studio style learning environment and one-on-one instruction.

 How long is the program?

  • Two years. This program is four semesters, and will take place in the fall and winter semesters only. Currently, there are no summer semesters nor January intake offered.

 What are the classes like?

  • Exciting, stimulating and hands on! Drawing, painting and sculpting. Emphasis is placed on working from the figure and your imagination. Classes are three to six hours in duration.All art courses take place in our architect-designed state of the art studios. Most students have 18 hours of classes per week

 Who teaches the students?

  • Our faculty consists of highly accomplished professional artists who have long-standing exhibition successes in the art world.

What resources are available?

  • spacious, well-lit, state of the art teaching studios, available to students after classes
  • a student prep area equipped with matte cutters and storage space
  • a separate quiet work area for students,
  • a growing resource centre for Fine Arts students
  • an established learning commons which includes a library, and computers that are readily available for student use.
  • proximity to the gallery districts in downtown Toronto