Get Creative
Build portfolio-ready artwork, explore creative programs, and learn inside OCAD U's studios this summer
In this immersive program, you will have the opportunity to spend time at our main campus, work in our studios and learn from OCAD U faculty who will guide and support you as you develop your own unique practice.
Each day, you will be in a specialized workshop that is tailored to help you expand both your skill and knowledge on contemporary art and design practice through a hands-on, multi-disciplinary approach to the studio experience.
These sessions are created to apply to any creative field, and will encourage you to explore and experiment with different tools, techniques, and practices.
Registration for the summer 2026 is now open! See schedule and register here.
The Summer Workshops are geared toward creatives ages 15-19 who are looking to explore new materials, techniques, and concepts to add to their portfolio.
OCAD U is a place that facilitates community between other like-minded makers and thinkers.
You will walk away from this program feeling motivated and excited for the creative future that awaits you, no matter where that future might be. At OCAD U, you will learn how to be original, inventive, and a well-rounded artist and designer who can speak, write, and most importantly create work.
In this week-long studio experience, you are invited to explore different methods of art and design making supported by hands-on learning that will introduce you to the programs that OCAD U has to offer.
Your experience will include:
- 5 different workshops across 2D and 3D analogue and digital disciplines
- Guided tour of OCAD U’s Onsite Gallery
- A chance to work in our specialized studios and classrooms
- Demo on how to write about your creative work for university applications and beyond
- How to document your work for your portfolio
- Discussion of what makes strong concepts, techniques, and materials
- Highly developed pieces that can support your portfolio or independent learning
The total cost for 2026 is $750 plus applicable taxes.
The cost of the program includes art supplies.
Where will the Summer Workshops take place?
The primary location of the Summer Workshops will be at the OCAD University main building at 100 McCaul St, Toronto, ON M5T 1G1.
What time do the Summer Workshops take place?
The workshops take place from 9:30 am - 3:30, with a 1 hour lunch. Attendance will be taken around 9:20 am.
How many spots are available in each week of the program?
There are 40 total spots in each option of the Summer Workshops, divided into two daily groups of 20.
Is lunch provided?
Lunch is not provided by OCAD University. Participants are welcome to bring a packed lunch or purchase lunch from the Grange Food Court across the street. Lunch is usually eaten in student spaces in the main building or if the weather permits, at the OCAD U park.
Does OCAD University have parking?
Street Parking in front of OCAD U is extremely limited. We encourage participants and parents to look at local parking garages on McCaul Street.
Do participants receive a certificate?
Yes, participants who participate in the Summer Workshops program will receive a physical Certificate of Completion.
Will there be an info session to learn more?
The Admissions & Recruitment team will be offering an online Info Session hosted on Zoom for participants and parents to ask questions and take a look at previous runs of the program.
Who do I contact if I have questions about the Summer Workshops?
Please reach out to us at portfolioclinics [at] ocadu.ca (portfolioclinics[at]ocadu[dot]ca) if you have questions about the program!
Inside the studios...
Two of our 2024 Summer Workshop Participants are experimenting with collage materials to contribute a page in a collaborative zine.
Instructor Chris Lange introduced analogue to digital fundamentals and the use of Risograph printing for this visual designed focused workshop.
Instead of the traditional methods of a dark room for photography, participants experimented with fixer, developer, and other household materials on photo paper.
Luísa Cruz guided participants in a photo-based process creating a variety of exciting results, both abstract and representational.
Taught by Par Nair, participants learned how to draw from a live model using soft pastels.
These participants are pictured working on their final drawing of a live model in colour after many timed drawing exercises.
Registration is now open!
Summer Workshops will run three times in July 2026:
- July 6 to 10
- July 13 to 17
- July 20 to 24
Portfolio Resources & Tips
