FRI – JR Documentarian 10+ yrs (WINTER 2025)
Theme of this term: Video Postcard.
A Video Postcard is a contemporary digital storytelling format that transforms the traditional postcard into a dynamic, multimedia experience, capturing the essence of places, moments, and personal journeys through short-form video content. This format combines visual storytelling with personal narrative, allowing creators to share their experiences and emotions in a way that’s both intimate and engaging. Throughout this genre, students will learn to craft compelling visual letters that document their travels, special occasions, or everyday moments that deserve to be remembered. Guided by the mentor, students will explore how to capture the spirit of a place or moment through carefully curated footage, thoughtful narration, and evocative sound design.
In this online course, students will receive comprehensive instruction on the art of creating video postcards, covering essential elements such as location filming techniques, personal narrative development, music selection, voice-over recording, and the effective use of text overlays and transitions. Students will have the opportunity to develop their own video postcards, transforming their personal experiences into concise yet meaningful visual messages that resonate with viewers.
The creation of a video postcard requires both technical skill and artistic sensitivity as students learn to distill the essence of their experiences into short-form content. They’ll master the balance between showing and telling, combining visual imagery with narrative elements to create pieces that feel both personal and universal. The course emphasizes how to craft these digital mementos in ways that capture not just what a place or moment looks like, but how it feels – from the bustling energy of city streets to the serene quiet of natural landscapes, or from intimate family gatherings to solo adventures in far-off places.
Students are required to have access to a video recording device to participate in the class. This can be as simple as a smartphone with video recording capabilities. The course also focuses on the use of DaVinci Resolve as the primary editing tool, empowering students to create visually striking and emotionally resonant videos with their own unique style. For more information about DaVinci Resolve, you can check out https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/.
TUE – JR Documentarian 10+ yrs (WINTER 2025)
Theme of this term: Video Postcard.
A Video Postcard is a contemporary digital storytelling format that transforms the traditional postcard into a dynamic, multimedia experience, capturing the essence of places, moments, and personal journeys through short-form video content. This format combines visual storytelling with personal narrative, allowing creators to share their experiences and emotions in a way that’s both intimate and engaging. Throughout this genre, students will learn to craft compelling visual letters that document their travels, special occasions, or everyday moments that deserve to be remembered. Guided by the mentor, students will explore how to capture the spirit of a place or moment through carefully curated footage, thoughtful narration, and evocative sound design.
In this online course, students will receive comprehensive instruction on the art of creating video postcards, covering essential elements such as location filming techniques, personal narrative development, music selection, voice-over recording, and the effective use of text overlays and transitions. Students will have the opportunity to develop their own video postcards, transforming their personal experiences into concise yet meaningful visual messages that resonate with viewers.
The creation of a video postcard requires both technical skill and artistic sensitivity as students learn to distill the essence of their experiences into short-form content. They’ll master the balance between showing and telling, combining visual imagery with narrative elements to create pieces that feel both personal and universal. The course emphasizes how to craft these digital mementos in ways that capture not just what a place or moment looks like, but how it feels – from the bustling energy of city streets to the serene quiet of natural landscapes, or from intimate family gatherings to solo adventures in far-off places.
Students are required to have access to a video recording device to participate in the class. This can be as simple as a smartphone with video recording capabilities. The course also focuses on the use of DaVinci Resolve as the primary editing tool, empowering students to create visually striking and emotionally resonant videos with their own unique style. For more information about DaVinci Resolve, you can check out https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/.
SAT – JR Podcaster 10+ yrs (WINTER 2025)
Theme of this term: Single-location.
Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season surrounded by family and loved ones. No doubt many stories were shared and memories created during those family gatherings – perhaps around the dinner table, in the living room, or even in the kitchen. As we enter a new term, our online JR Screenwriter course explores the captivating world of single-location storytelling, where the confines of space become a catalyst for creativity.
We invite students to discover the power of contained storytelling, where character dynamics, intricate dialogue, and psychological tension take center stage. Our aim is to guide students in constructing narratives that transform spatial constraints into dramatic advantages, creating scripts where every corner of the chosen location holds significance and meaning. Whether it’s exploring the complexities of relationships in a trapped elevator, unraveling mysteries within an isolated cabin, or navigating tensions in a locked boardroom, this course reveals the boundless possibilities within bounded spaces.
Key topics covered include developing rich, multi-dimensional characters whose interactions drive the story, building dramatic tension through environmental elements, and mastering the art of revealing crucial information within a restricted setting. The course emphasizes how to turn spatial limitations into storytelling strengths, using detailed location description and character movement to maintain audience engagement. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to craft compelling scripts that prove the most gripping stories don’t need multiple locations to captivate an audience.
In this online course, students will not only delve into the technical aspects of podcast creation, such as using audio recording software like Audacity (compatible with Windows, Mac OS X, and other operating systems), but also focus on nurturing their horror storytelling abilities. The curriculum encompasses horror scriptwriting, voice guidance for creating chilling atmospheres, audio recording and editing techniques to amplify scares, and the integration of eerie music and bone-chilling sound effects to enhance the Halloween-themed storytelling experience.
Teens, brimming with imaginative tales of terror, will find a platform to give voice to their spine-tingling narratives. Our mentors will curate selected works, showcasing them on JR Art Lab’s YouTube channel, allowing young storytellers to share their horror masterpieces with a broader audience, just in time for Halloween.
*For individual story creation, we’ll be using Google Docs and Audacity. Please visit https://www.audacityteam.org/ for more information about Audacity, the free and cross-platform audio software utilized in this course.
MON – JR Podcaster 10+ yrs (WINTER 2025)
Theme of this term: Single-location.
Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season surrounded by family and loved ones. No doubt many stories were shared and memories created during those family gatherings – perhaps around the dinner table, in the living room, or even in the kitchen. As we enter a new term, our online JR Screenwriter course explores the captivating world of single-location storytelling, where the confines of space become a catalyst for creativity.
We invite students to discover the power of contained storytelling, where character dynamics, intricate dialogue, and psychological tension take center stage. Our aim is to guide students in constructing narratives that transform spatial constraints into dramatic advantages, creating scripts where every corner of the chosen location holds significance and meaning. Whether it’s exploring the complexities of relationships in a trapped elevator, unraveling mysteries within an isolated cabin, or navigating tensions in a locked boardroom, this course reveals the boundless possibilities within bounded spaces.
Key topics covered include developing rich, multi-dimensional characters whose interactions drive the story, building dramatic tension through environmental elements, and mastering the art of revealing crucial information within a restricted setting. The course emphasizes how to turn spatial limitations into storytelling strengths, using detailed location description and character movement to maintain audience engagement. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to craft compelling scripts that prove the most gripping stories don’t need multiple locations to captivate an audience.
In this online course, students will not only delve into the technical aspects of podcast creation, such as using audio recording software like Audacity (compatible with Windows, Mac OS X, and other operating systems), but also focus on nurturing their horror storytelling abilities. The curriculum encompasses horror scriptwriting, voice guidance for creating chilling atmospheres, audio recording and editing techniques to amplify scares, and the integration of eerie music and bone-chilling sound effects to enhance the Halloween-themed storytelling experience.
Teens, brimming with imaginative tales of terror, will find a platform to give voice to their spine-tingling narratives. Our mentors will curate selected works, showcasing them on JR Art Lab’s YouTube channel, allowing young storytellers to share their horror masterpieces with a broader audience, just in time for Halloween.
*For individual story creation, we’ll be using Google Docs and Audacity. Please visit https://www.audacityteam.org/ for more information about Audacity, the free and cross-platform audio software utilized in this course.
TUE – JR Designer 13 – 17 yrs Pop-Rocks (Winter 2025)
Event Branding & Publicity
In this 9-week digital art workshop, participants will explore the essentials of graphic design and event branding using Affinity Designer. Each 90-minute session will guide participants through the process of creating compelling and cohesive branding elements for a music concert event. From initial concept development to final design execution, participants will learn how to create eye-catching posters, social media graphics, merchandise designs, and more. Through hands-on practice, live demonstrations, and personalized feedback, this workshop will help artists elevate their graphic design skills and create professional-quality event branding materials.
9-Week Outline:
Week 1: Introduction to Event Branding and AF designer
- Welcome and overview of the workshop
- Introduction to AF DESIGNER tools and interface
- Basics of event branding and its importance
- Simple exercises to get familiar with digital graphic design
Week 2: Concept Development
- Brainstorming ideas for music concert branding
- Techniques for creating mood boards and concept sketches
- Hands-on practice: Developing initial concepts
Week 3: Typography and Logo Design
- Understanding typography principles and best practices
- Techniques for creating impactful logos
- Hands-on practice: Designing a concert logo
Week 4: Color Theory and Application
- Basics of color theory and its role in branding
- Techniques for selecting and applying colors
- Hands-on practice: Creating a color palette for the concert
Week 5: Poster Design
- Principles of effective poster design
- Techniques for layout, composition, and visual hierarchy
- Hands-on practice: Designing a concert poster
Week 6: Social Media Graphics
- Creating cohesive social media graphics for event promotion
- Techniques for designing engaging posts and stories
- Hands-on practice: Designing social media assets
Week 7: Merchandise Design
- Exploring merchandise design options (e.g., T-shirts, stickers)
- Techniques for creating appealing and brand-consistent merchandise
- Hands-on practice: Designing merchandise for the concert
Week 8: Finalizing Designs and Preparing for Print
- Techniques for refining and finalizing designs
- Understanding print specifications and file preparation
- Hands-on practice: Preparing designs for print
Week 9: Presentation and Review
- Presenting final branding concepts and design
Students will need a copy of Affinity Designer https://affinity.serif.com/ available for iPad or Desktop.
TUE – JR Designer 8 – 12 yrs – Pop-Rocks (Winter 2025)
Event Branding & Publicity
In this 9-week digital art workshop, participants will explore the essentials of graphic design and event branding using Affinity Designer. Each 90-minute session will guide participants through the process of creating compelling and cohesive branding elements for a music concert event. From initial concept development to final design execution, participants will learn how to create eye-catching posters, social media graphics, merchandise designs, and more. Through hands-on practice, live demonstrations, and personalized feedback, this workshop will help artists elevate their graphic design skills and create professional-quality event branding materials.
9-Week Outline:
Week 1: Introduction to Event Branding and AF designer
- Welcome and overview of the workshop
- Introduction to AF DESIGNER tools and interface
- Basics of event branding and its importance
- Simple exercises to get familiar with digital graphic design
Week 2: Concept Development
- Brainstorming ideas for music concert branding
- Techniques for creating mood boards and concept sketches
- Hands-on practice: Developing initial concepts
Week 3: Typography and Logo Design
- Understanding typography principles and best practices
- Techniques for creating impactful logos
- Hands-on practice: Designing a concert logo
Week 4: Color Theory and Application
- Basics of color theory and its role in branding
- Techniques for selecting and applying colors
- Hands-on practice: Creating a color palette for the concert
Week 5: Poster Design
- Principles of effective poster design
- Techniques for layout, composition, and visual hierarchy
- Hands-on practice: Designing a concert poster
Week 6: Social Media Graphics
- Creating cohesive social media graphics for event promotion
- Techniques for designing engaging posts and stories
- Hands-on practice: Designing social media assets
Week 7: Merchandise Design
- Exploring merchandise design options (e.g., T-shirts, stickers)
- Techniques for creating appealing and brand-consistent merchandise
- Hands-on practice: Designing merchandise for the concert
Week 8: Finalizing Designs and Preparing for Print
- Techniques for refining and finalizing designs
- Understanding print specifications and file preparation
- Hands-on practice: Preparing designs for print
Week 9: Presentation and Review
- Presenting final branding concepts and design
Students will need a copy of Affinity Designer https://affinity.serif.com/ available for iPad or Desktop.
WED – JR Screenwriter 13 – 17 yrs (WINTER 2025)
Theme of this term: Single-location.
Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season surrounded by family and loved ones. No doubt many stories were shared and memories created during those family gatherings – perhaps around the dinner table, in the living room, or even in the kitchen. As we enter a new term, our online JR Screenwriter course explores the captivating world of single-location storytelling, where the confines of space become a catalyst for creativity.
We invite students to discover the power of contained storytelling, where character dynamics, intricate dialogue, and psychological tension take center stage. Our aim is to guide students in constructing narratives that transform spatial constraints into dramatic advantages, creating scripts where every corner of the chosen location holds significance and meaning. Whether it’s exploring the complexities of relationships in a trapped elevator, unraveling mysteries within an isolated cabin, or navigating tensions in a locked boardroom, this course reveals the boundless possibilities within bounded spaces.
Key topics covered include developing rich, multi-dimensional characters whose interactions drive the story, building dramatic tension through environmental elements, and mastering the art of revealing crucial information within a restricted setting. The course emphasizes how to turn spatial limitations into storytelling strengths, using detailed location description and character movement to maintain audience engagement. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to craft compelling scripts that prove the most gripping stories don’t need multiple locations to captivate an audience.
THU – JR Screenwriter 8 – 12 yrs (WINTER 2025)
Theme of this term: Single-location.
Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season surrounded by family and loved ones. No doubt many stories were shared and memories created during those family gatherings – perhaps around the dinner table, in the living room, or even in the kitchen. As we enter a new term, our online JR Screenwriter course explores the captivating world of single-location storytelling, where the confines of space become a catalyst for creativity.
We invite students to discover the power of contained storytelling, where character dynamics, intricate dialogue, and psychological tension take center stage. Our aim is to guide students in constructing narratives that transform spatial constraints into dramatic advantages, creating scripts where every corner of the chosen location holds significance and meaning. Whether it’s exploring the complexities of relationships in a trapped elevator, unraveling mysteries within an isolated cabin, or navigating tensions in a locked boardroom, this course reveals the boundless possibilities within bounded spaces.
Key topics covered include developing rich, multi-dimensional characters whose interactions drive the story, building dramatic tension through environmental elements, and mastering the art of revealing crucial information within a restricted setting. The course emphasizes how to turn spatial limitations into storytelling strengths, using detailed location description and character movement to maintain audience engagement. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to craft compelling scripts that prove the most gripping stories don’t need multiple locations to captivate an audience.
MON – JR Digital Artist 8 – 12 yrs – Materials (Winter 2025)
Material Studdies
Workshop Summary: In this 8-week digital art workshop, participants will explore the world of material studies using Clip Studio Paint. Each 90-minute session will focus on different materials, techniques, and creative approaches to help artists enhance their understanding and skills in digital rendering. Through hands-on practice, demonstrations, and constructive feedback, participants will develop a comprehensive skill set for creating lifelike and imaginative digital artworks.
Week 1: Introduction to Material Studies
- Introduction to Clip Studio Paint tools and interface
- Basic principles of material studies
- Simple exercises to get familiar with digital rendering
Week 2: Rendering Metal
- Understanding the properties of metal
- Techniques for rendering different types of metal (e.g., shiny, matte)
- Hands-on practice: Drawing metallic objects
Week 3: Rendering Wood
- Characteristics of various wood textures
- Techniques for rendering wood grain and surface details
- Hands-on practice: Drawing wooden objects
Week 4: Rendering Fabrics
- Exploring different types of fabrics (e.g., silk, cotton, denim)
- Techniques for rendering fabric folds and textures
- Hands-on practice: Drawing fabric drapery
Week 5: Rendering Glass and Transparent Materials
- Properties of glass and transparent materials
- Techniques for rendering reflections and refractions
- Hands-on practice: Drawing glass objects
Week 6: Rendering Organic Materials
- Understanding organic textures (e.g., skin, fur, foliage)
- Techniques for rendering various organic surfaces
- Hands-on practice: Drawing organic materials
Week 7: Rendering Stone and Rock
- Characteristics of stone and rock textures
- Techniques for rendering different types of stone surfaces
- Hands-on practice: Drawing stone objects
Week 8: Rendering Water and Liquids
- Properties of water and different liquids
- Techniques for rendering water reflections and movement
- Hands-on practice: Drawing water and liquid scenes
This term we will be working with Clip Studio Paint $5.99/m ( https://www.clipstudio.net/en/) for desktop/laptop.
MON – JR Digital Artist 13 – 17 yrs – Materials (Winter 2025)
Material Studdies
Workshop Summary: In this 8-week digital art workshop, participants will explore the world of material studies using Clip Studio Paint. Each 90-minute session will focus on different materials, techniques, and creative approaches to help artists enhance their understanding and skills in digital rendering. Through hands-on practice, demonstrations, and constructive feedback, participants will develop a comprehensive skill set for creating lifelike and imaginative digital artworks.
Week 1: Introduction to Material Studies
- Introduction to Clip Studio Paint tools and interface
- Basic principles of material studies
- Simple exercises to get familiar with digital rendering
Week 2: Rendering Metal
- Understanding the properties of metal
- Techniques for rendering different types of metal (e.g., shiny, matte)
- Hands-on practice: Drawing metallic objects
Week 3: Rendering Wood
- Characteristics of various wood textures
- Techniques for rendering wood grain and surface details
- Hands-on practice: Drawing wooden objects
Week 4: Rendering Fabrics
- Exploring different types of fabrics (e.g., silk, cotton, denim)
- Techniques for rendering fabric folds and textures
- Hands-on practice: Drawing fabric drapery
Week 5: Rendering Glass and Transparent Materials
- Properties of glass and transparent materials
- Techniques for rendering reflections and refractions
- Hands-on practice: Drawing glass objects
Week 6: Rendering Organic Materials
- Understanding organic textures (e.g., skin, fur, foliage)
- Techniques for rendering various organic surfaces
- Hands-on practice: Drawing organic materials
Week 7: Rendering Stone and Rock
- Characteristics of stone and rock textures
- Techniques for rendering different types of stone surfaces
- Hands-on practice: Drawing stone objects
Week 8: Rendering Water and Liquids
- Properties of water and different liquids
- Techniques for rendering water reflections and movement
- Hands-on practice: Drawing water and liquid scenes
This term we will be working with Clip Studio Paint $5.99/m ( https://www.clipstudio.net/en/) for desktop/laptop.
