Learn a wide array of art mediums and techniques
You'll get rigorous in-studio training in every semester of the two-year Visual and Creative Arts diploma program. You'll study 2D and 3D design, observational and life drawing*, anatomy, colour theory and painting. (*Note: You'll be required, as part of the curriculum, to study life drawing and painting. This regularly includes drawing the nude figure and the study of human anatomy.)

Choose studio electives that match your career goals and interests
In second year, you’ll choose from electives to specialize in areas that interest you and build a broader set of marketable skills to help you find work after graduation. You’ll choose from studio courses such as Figurative/Interpretive Drawing and Painting, Digital Media Studio, Digital Drawing and Painting and 3D Material Explorations.

Work in specialty studios with a faculty of practicing professional artists
Sheridan has a reputation as one of the best art schools in Canada. Our Visual and Creative Arts program shares spaces and faculty with our globally recognized Art and Art History, Illustration and Animation degree programs. Learning in world-class studios, you’ll get rigorous, hands-on training from faculty who are connected to galleries, studios and agencies in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.

Easily transfer to a three-year advanced diploma
If you decide you want to further your artistic education and knowledge, transferring to our three-year Visual and Creative Arts advanced diploma is easy — simply speak to your program coordinator. You’ll learn more advanced techniques, in-depth theory and the professional skills you need to market yourself as a professional artist, designer or creative entrepreneur with your own business.

Further your education or begin your career
Many students who complete the Visual and Creative Arts diploma program go on to further study in a degree program of their preference.

Some students gain entry-level employment in jobs that require visual art and design skills, as fine artists, freelance designers, and in community arts groups.

View the work of our graduates: Visual and Creative Arts Graduate Exhibition

Visual and Creative Arts diploma students learn how to work as artists and think like entrepreneurs. Many students start studios or businesses. Others apply their new skills to further studies in other Sheridan programs, like our degree programs in animation and illustration.

Graduates have also worked in fields like:

Digital prepress
Gallery operation
Graphic design
Illustration
Photography
Public art projects
Self-employed artist/designer
Signage