Short Courses

Uncover the fundamentals of writing fiction with an eye on both the short story and the novel. An introductory writing workshop that will explore setting, point-of-view, dialogue, conflict, plot, tone, voice, character and genre. The course will reference contemporary fiction, film, television and other art forms that demonstrate fundamental lessons in narrative while simultaneously emphasising their operation in polished literary fiction. The prerequisite for level II is the completion of the previous level or prior experience.  Applicants who wish to join level II and have prior experience in fiction writing are required to submit writing portfolio for trainer’s review. Applicants …

Explore the great architectural monuments and art of Southeast Asia with a focus on Indonesia and Cambodia. This course will survey the ideas, philosophies, literature and religious beliefs that shaped artistic development and achievement in the region. Learn more about some of the most powerful and culturally rich kingdoms and empires led by local rulers who styled themselves as god-kings (dewa-rajas) following their conversion to Hinduism and/or Buddhism.

Expand your creative drawing skills with an intriguing dry art medium. Charcoal has unique characteristics that will help you discover your creativity through bold strokes, intricate marks and blending. Note: Course trainers are, on occasion, subject to change with short notice.

Spark your creativity by exploring and experiencing a whole wide range of mixed media styles and painting techniques. Note: Course trainers are, on occasion, subject to change with short notice.

In this engaging and hands-on gouache painting course, participants will learn the techniques and skills necessary to create stunning anime backgrounds inspired by the iconic Studio Ghibli films. Throughout the course, students will gain an understanding of the key elements that make Ghibli backgrounds unique and explore various methods of using gouache paint to bring their own imaginative landscapes to life. Note: Course trainers are, on occasion, subject to change with short notice.

Be exposed to the history, tools and forms of penmanship and Western calligraphy. Have confidence in analysing current scripts and how they can alter existing styles. Participants will learn to design their own works, experiment with lettering systematically and use words as visuals to tell personal stories. Note: Course trainers are, on occasion, subject to change with short notice.

Join Michelle Elvy in this introductory writing course to build your writing confidence. This basic writing course will explore the ‘how to’ of writing, from building-block structures to meanings between the lines. Explore different writing forms that will help in your own writing, be it fiction, poetry, essay or business materials. Each week, participants will be introduced to a topic with an introductory set of discussion points, writing assignments along with recommended reading and a chance to share your writing drafts. Note: Course trainers are, on occasion, subject to change with short notice.

This course is designed for individuals aged 18 and above who want to develop confidence, presence, creativity and adaptability in both performance and everyday communication skills. Students will be equipped with essential techniques to express themselves with clarity, authenticity and impact. Through practical exercises and scene work, participants will explore key acting principles, including presence, active listening and verbal and non-verbal communication. Using different methods drawn from Stanislavski, improvisation and voice training, students will learn how to connect with others, think on their feet, and engage an audience or listeners—whether on stage, in a meeting or in everyday conversation. The …

Explore the engaging art of urban sketching with a pen. Capture the essence of your surroundings through spontaneous linework, learn courageous mark-making techniques to bring streets, buildings and everyday scenes to life with ink and a creative eye.

The Fundamentals of Jewellery Design course introduces students to the creative and conceptual processes of jewellery design. Through structured exercises, research and the exploration of materials and techniques, students will develop an understanding of how inspiration is transformed into viable jewellery concepts. Students will apply fundamental design principles while considering material constraints, functionality, and industry practices. Students will end the course having enhanced their ability to generate and develop original jewellery design ideas that subsequently can be brought to life through craftsmanship or production. This course is suitable for individuals looking to deepen their creative design approach, regardless of prior …

Youths from 12 to 18 years of age are welcome to discover their next favourite art project! Join this beginner-friendly acrylic painting class and discover how to work with acrylic paints, a richly coloured and versatile medium. Learn how artists communicate creative ideas through colour, texture, shape and gestural mark-making, all with acrylics.

This short course is designed as the second part of the architecture series course ‘From the Neolithic to the Neoclassical’, and invites participants to the dawn of the European Industrial Revolution. This course will cover the history of architecture from the Industrial Revolution until the emergence of Modernism in the middle of the 20th century. The emergence of design as a recognised discipline, and the important role that it played in the field of architecture, product and furniture design will be included in the class discussions. Participants will discuss the achievements and developments of Western and Asian architecture side-by-side and …