Watercolor
Watercolor Series
Landscape, shoreline, birds, night sky, holiday cards, whales, and beginner-friendly technique series.
View CoursesNanaimo, Vancouver Island
Island Girl Art Studio
A color-rich working studio and in-house gallery for watercolor, drawing, acrylics, mixed media, private paint nights, creative mentorship, and artful travel.
Materials includedAges 16 and upWeekly classesGallery shows
Welcome
Art classes for the creatively curious.
Located in beautiful Departure Bay, Island Girl Art Studio & Gallery offers fine art courses for curious newcomers through emerging professional artists. Weekly classes cover watercolor, drawing, acrylics, and mixed media for ages 16 and up. No experience is required, and supplies are included unless a course description notes otherwise.
Penny Maday Ciochetti brings more than 40 years of teaching experience in Canada and Europe, with an approach centered on creativity, freedom of expression, and practical confidence in the studio.
Studio & Gallery
A local art gallery inside an artist's studio.
The in-house gallery features original work by local painters, mixed media artists, photographers, jewelry designers, and guest artists. Watch for announcements about upcoming shows, artist features, Art Pop-Ups, student shows, and special gallery events.
Gallery hours shift with teaching and travel commitments. Private appointments are available for art and gift items by calling Penny at (250) 327 - 2533.
Please note
See Gallery & ShowsParking is limited to 6 cars for art shows. For overflow parking, please park at Departure Bay Beach and take the short walk up to the studio, or consider car-sharing.
Classes & Workshops
Choose a studio path.
Course deposits reserve your spot, with the balance paid at the first class or workshop. Weekly class materials are included except where noted.
Acrylics
Modern Landscape
Paint expressive landscapes in acrylics while building color, composition, and confidence.
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Private
Mentorship & Studio Sessions
Portfolio preparation, critique, one-on-one instruction, online mentorship, and private paint nights.
Check AvailabilityBooking & Payment
Studio checkout for classes, passes, shop, and gift cards.
Register for workshops, purchase mentorship plans, buy gift cards, and choose studio offerings from one clear flow.
Artful Travel
Art, Culture & Culinary Tours to Florence.
Annual studio tours to Italy combine art, culture, food, and the living color of Florence. Updates are posted through the studio site and social channels.
Explore Florence Tours
FAQ
Common class questions.
Most classes are designed for beginners and returning artists. Supplies are included in weekly classes unless the individual course description lists a supply note.
Read All FAQsDo I have to know how to draw to take a painting class?
No. Penny teaches reference images, photo use, and grid enlargement so drawing experience is helpful but not required.
Do I need to bring art supplies?
All materials are available for student use in most classes. Drawing students may be asked to bring a 9 x 12 inch sketchbook.
What happens if I cancel?
Cancellation and wait-list terms vary by course and timing. Review the current policy before signing up.