Beginner Printmaking with Natt Cann
2024-11-30 10:00 - 17:00 (America/Halifax) | New Brunswick
The Workshop will he held in the Print Shop at the River Art Centre, 8746 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol, NB
$65, all materials provided
Join New Brunswick artist and printmaking aficionado Natt Cann for an introduction into all the possibilities the Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery’s print studio can offer. Over the course of a day, attendees will learn the technical aspects of working in a print studio including the possibilities for art making that can be accomplished with a press. This session will cover scaled down forms of professional-level printmaking techniques and help you to take advantage of a well-equipped studio, while giving you the confidence and knowledge to embark on these methods without assistance.
Individuals who have taken this class will be able to join Print Making Drop-in that will start in February 2025 because you will be able to work independently to realise your idea.
Techniques:
Relief Printing and pin & tab registration
A variety of Monotype & Monoprint methods; Photo Transfers
and if there is time, Intaglio through Drypoint with Tetrapak
Press safety, studio maintenance, and ink etiquette
What you can bring to the workshop:
An apron
Lunch
A design for a 4″ x 6″ lino
Come with some ideas or sketches for the various prints so you don’t use up valuable time during the workshop coming up with an image.
Bring a photograph that you might want to use a copy of in a print – any kind of photo, but it can’t be on your phone
A few tips for preparing your design for the 4″ x 6″ lino print:
Draw a 4″ x 6″ rectangle to frame your drawing and to make sure it is the correct size to match your lino block
Use a pencil to fill in the black or solid areas, trying to keep a 50/50 balance of light area and dark areas
Keep outlines to a minimum and think about shapes more than lines
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Sorry, your browser doesn't support embedded videos.Meet the artist Natt Cann
Natt Cann (he/him) is a Canadian visual artist whose projects of print hone upon the haunting of lands – ideologies and industries keeping afloat Canadian notions of colonial heritage and their subsequent degradations. Natt has ventured across Canada through numerous residencies and exhibitions, and his recent print projects have been intertwined with a variety of publications, expositions, and research grants. His work has been consistently supported by both ArtsNB’s funding programs and the Canada Council for the Arts, and has provided grant assistance to countless peers. Nat received his BFA from Mount Allison University (2012) and now resides in Moncton, New Brunswick, an Acadian colonial city which sits on the unceded territory of the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) and Mi’kmaq Peoples
Here are some examples of Natt’s prints. Natt works out of the Print Shop at the Aberdeen Cultural Centre in Moncton, NB.

The three finalists for the Veysey Active Living Centre in Florenceville-Bristol
2025-01-01 - 2025-03-01 | New Brunswick
Cat Candow of Fredericton, NB
A seamstress by trade and passionate textile arts educator, Cat has spent much of her life doing all kinds of sewing, embroidery and beadwork. Over the last three years she has fallen deep into bobbinlace making and spends much of her free time researching regional traditions, learning online with teachers from all over the world, as well as creating her own designs.
While she has spent countless hours dreaming, sampling, and learning how to take her art to a large scale, this is the first time she has ever applied for a public art project, and is very excited to have been shortlisted.
Cat’s art will consist of many unique giant lace squares spread out over different areas. These pieces will represent individuals coming together; showing the benefits of trusting and relying on each other, as well as how it helps strengthen our individual health and the goals of the community. It will prove that diversity makes the big picture more fascinatingly vibrant; and like a treasure hunt, it pulls you away from your usual path to explore a familiar place from new perspectives.

Examples of Cat’s textile art

Alanna Baird, Saint Andrew’s, NB

My artistic practice has been one of material curiousity. It began with clay, working as a studio potter. In the early 1990’s I started what continues to be my signature series, fish sculptures made from recycled tin cans. I also use printmaking as a way to explore and simplify imagery in two dimension, often carrying that through to my sculptural practice. 10 years ago I started working with lost wax cast bronze, and this in turn has let me down a path in plastics, both new and recycled. As I criss cross materials and techniques, there has been a reoccuring theme that connects to my shoreline, and the creatures I find there. Our connection to the natural world is critical, and our awareness of the value of connections is what makes a successful community. For the R.G. “Bun” Vesley Community Centre I am proposing to work with a new and colourful felt material that is designed specifically for it’s sound absorbtion properties. Another departure in materials for me, and an exciting new pallate of colours. It is my intent to create a low relief sculptural work that is not only a reflection of the rivers that run through Carleton County, but which can also act to soften the audio levels within the Centre. Using the simplicity of my print imagery combined with my sculptural practice, I am working towards an installation piece that will weave it’s way through the building’s space, just as the community flows through this incredible facility.

Examples of Alanna’s art

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Karen LeBlanc of Fredericton, NB

Karen LeBlanc has been weaving for over 50 years. She focuses on weaving traditional, functional, and practical pieces on four or eight-harness looms; weaving innovative, contemporary tapestry pieces woven on tapestry looms; and stitches repurposed tartan kilts or other fabrics into ornaments.
Karen has installed three public art commissions:
“Primary Colours in the Hub” in the Pictou Culture Hub (2024), “Suspended in Time: Woven Pages and Wooden Letters” in the Hanwell Park Academy (2023) and “Primary Colours Weave the Future in the Arc-en-ciel school (2021)
Karen’s “Plots of Land” submission in the 2024 HGA Convergence Yardage exhibition won the Weavers Guild of Oklahoma Award and the Ruth F. Morrison Award for Technical Excellence in Weaving award.
Karen has exhibited internationally, nationally, regionally, and locally and participated in residencies in Fredericton, Toronto and Parrsboro. In 2024, she created a “Branch Out and Weave for Climate Change” workshop for her Harm to Harmony Residency through the Conservation Council of NB. In 2019, four woven wearables were part of the ArtWear fashion show and exhibition in Fort Collins CO.
Karen teaches the Intro to Weaving course through the Honeybee Folk School. During a summer residency in 2021, Karen created small symbolic hearts that were given to people in memory of Indigenous children who did not return home from a Residential School. Prior to retiring from her full-time job in 2019, Karen worked with the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) as the Senior Project Manager where she obtained funding and managed workforce and economic development projects for Indigenous people in New Brunswick. Karen continues to advocate for Reconciliation with First Nations.

Examples of Karen’s textile art

Carving lessons with Max Hutchison
2025-01-01 - 2025-05-31 | Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery, 8 McCain Street, Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick, E7L 3H6, Canada
Award winning artist Max Hutchison will be teaching carving lessons at the River Art Centre, in Florenceville-Bristol, NB.
After studying wood carving for many years with James Buxton, learning essential carving skills while refining his technique, Max has started to accept students for Beginner Carving lessons.
Beginner Carving:

All lessons are for a maximum of one student at a time.
Each course is $100 for four, two-hour sessions sessions over four weeks. The schedule will be worked out between Max and the student.
Students will carve a “smoothy” – a duck, penguin, bird or other animal. Wood and carving equipment is provided.
Call the Gallery at 506-392-6769 to express your interest, ask questions, reserve your course or add your name to the waiting list.

Meet Max:
Max is an avid carver who quickly picked up the skills required to make ambitious and engaging carvings. His Shark, 2023 can be seen at the Bun Veysey Active Living Centre and is part of the Public Art Collection of the District of Carleton North. Max’s work took a unique turn when he started to tell a story in his pieces, referencing classic cartoon figures or in his award winning carving of the shark chasing its lunch. Max runs a carving group that meet weekly at the River Art Centre and he is delighted to share his knowledge and expertise with those who want to learn how to carve.

6 Week Pottery Wheel Course
2025-03-17 14:00 - 2025-04-21 21:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Have you given the wheel a spin and are looking to deepen your skills? Or maybe you’re brand new and want to dive right into learning pottery? This course is designed for you!
In this beginner’s course you will learn the basics of throwing & working with clay. Your teacher, Jenna will provide an intro to the many aspects involved in understanding & creating pottery: clay bodies, wedging, reclaiming, throwing forms, trimming, making handles, firing & kilns, decoration & glazing techniques. Throughout the class as you practice your skills you will work to create your own little “perfectly imperfect” place setting that includes a cup, bowl, mug & plate.
Experience isn’t necessary, just a willingness to get dirty and the patience to learn & try.
The course will begin on Monday, March 17th, and will occur weekly until April 21.
There are two time slots available for this course: 2pm-5pm and 6pm-9pm
Contact the gallery to register now: 506-392-6769 or info@mccainartgallery.com
There are no refunds for cancellations within 2 weeks of the event.

Intro to Wheel Pottery Course
2025-03-22 12:00 - 17:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Join instructor Jenna Ross and learn how to throw clay on the wheel. Class is suitable for all levels; adult class.
Two classes on Saturday, March 22nd, from either 12-2 or 3-5 at the River Art Centre. Four people per class, lots of one-on-one time with the instructor.
$40 payment reserves your space, no refunds on cancellations within two weeks of event. Don’t hesitate, these classes fill up fast!
For more info or to reserve your space call or email the Gallery at 506-392-6769 or info@mccainartgallery.com

Drawing Drop-in
2025-04-10 | New Brunswick
Drawing Drop-in is a chance to enjoy drawing and a social evening with other creative and curious people with instruction from Stephen Hutchings. It is a chance to practice, learn and explore drawing using different materials. Bring your own project and get some feedback or, get an introduction to the basic of drawing from Stephen who will provide instruction and materials. $1o includes all the materials you need and refreshments will be served.
Meet Stephen Hutchings…
Stephen is a local artist who draws most days as he is working in his Johnville studio or at the River Art Centre. His drawing practice started, like many, in his childhood and he never stopped. You might have seen him drawing in the Gallery in January 2023, when seven artists were invited to turn the gallery into a drawing studio. Stephen has taught drawing throughout his career and will be teaching a figure drawing workshop at Sunbury Shores in the summer of 2025. He loves to share his enthusiasm for the activity with others and so has invited you to join him one evening a month, have a glass of wine and reconnect to your inner artist.
Future Drawing Drop-in dates are the third Thursdays of the month – February 13, March 20, April 17, 2025.

Canva for Beginners Workshop with David Bailey
2025-04-12 13:00 - 15:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Canva for Beginners Workshop
Join us for a Canva for Beginners Workshop with David Bailey on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 1-3 PM at the River Arts Centre in Florenceville-Bristol.
Learn how to create professional-looking designs using Canva, a simple and versatile graphic design tool. Whether you’re new to design or looking to improve your skills, this hands-on workshop will help you get started.

$20 per person

Bring your own device

Location: 8746 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol

Register now: Call 506-392-6769 or email info@mccainartgallery.com

Spots are limited—sign up today!

Guess Who is Coming To Dinner?
2025-05-03 18:00 - 22:00 | Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery, 8 McCain Street, Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick, E7L 3H6, Canada
Tickets are now available for the 17th Annual Guess Who!
Saturday, 3 May, 2025
The evening starts with a 6:00 o’clock reception at The Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery 8 McCain Street, Florenceville-Bristol, NB E7L 3H6
Tickets are $100.00 per person
For more information or to purchase tickets call the Gallery at 506-392-6769
Where will I be dining … and with who?
You find out at 7 o”clock that evening, when guests receive the top secret envelopes with maps to their destinations! A delicious dinner party follows, hosted by community members who have opened their homes and prepared fantastic meals.
The thrill of the unknown is exhilarating but one thing is certain – where ever you go, you’ll be met with great food and fine company!
Please inform your ticket seller and the Gallery of allergies or major diet restrictions.

Canva for Beginners Workshop with David Bailey
2025-05-10 13:00 - 15:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Canva for Beginners Workshop
Join us for a Canva for Beginners Workshop with David Bailey on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 1-3 PM at the Florenceville-Bristol Community Hall.
Learn how to create professional-looking designs using Canva, a simple and versatile graphic design tool. Whether you’re new to design or looking to improve your skills, this hands-on workshop will help you get started. To see what Canva is, visit www.canva.com

$20 per person

Bring your own device and Hotspot

Location: 8696 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol

Register now: Call 506-392-6769 or email info@mccainartgallery.com

Spots are limited—sign up today!

Weaving Workshop With Lora Lloyd
2025-05-17 13:00 - 15:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Weaving Workshop with Lora Lloyd
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PMLocation: River Arts Centre, 8746 Main Street, Florenceville-BristolCost: $25 (all materials included)
Join us for a hands-on introduction to weaving with artist Lora Lloyd. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn how to set up a small frame loom and weave your own unique mug rug to take home.
Lora Lloyd, the artist behind Perfectly Imperfect Weaving, embraces the beauty of imperfections in her work and has a passion for natural fibers and supporting local yarn shops.
No experience needed—just bring your creativity!
To register or for more information, call the gallery at 506-392-6769.

Product Photography with David Bailey
2025-06-07 13:00 - 15:00 | New Brunswick
Join us for a Product Photography Workshop with David Bailey on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 1pm-3pm at the River Arts Centre.
Learn how to present your product in the best lighting you have available around the house/shop. Perfect for social media, websites, and more!

$20 per person
Bring your own product
Bring your own camera (phone works)
Location: 8746 Main Street, Florenceville Bristol.
Register now: Call 506-392-6769 or email info@mccainartgallery.com

Spots are limited – sign up today!

Intro to Line with Stephen Hutchings
2025-06-12 18:00 - 20:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Meet Stephen Hutchings…
Stephen is a local artist who draws most days as he is working in his Johnville studio or at the River Art Centre. His drawing practice started, like many, in his childhood and he never stopped. You might have seen him drawing in the Gallery in January 2023, when seven artists were invited to turn the gallery into a drawing studio. Stephen has taught drawing throughout his career and will be teaching a figure drawing workshop at Sunbury Shores in the summer of 2025. He loves to share his enthusiasm for the activity with others and so has invited you to join him one evening a month, have a glass of wine and reconnect to your inner artist.
Stephen is a local artist who draws most days as he is working in his Johnville studio or at the River Art Centre. His drawing practice started, like many, in his childhood and he never stopped. You might have seen him drawing in the Gallery in January 2023, when seven artists were invited to turn the gallery into a drawing studio. Stephen has taught drawing throughout his career and will be teaching a figure drawing workshop at Sunbury Shores in the summer of 2025. He loves to share his enthusiasm for the activity with others and so has invited you to join him one evening a month, have a glass of wine and reconnect to your inner artist.
To register, please contact the gallery:
506-392-6769 | info@mccainartgallery.com
All materials are provided, no experience necessary!
Join artist Stephen Hutchings for a two-part beginner friendly workshop exploring the expressive power of line in art.
Part 1: May 22, 6pm-8pm
Part 2: June 12, 6pm-8pm
Location: River Art Centre (8746 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol)
Cost: $5 per part, given at the door. *Please still register ahead.

Raku Workshop with Tim Isaac & Jenna Ross
2025-06-14 09:00 - 2025-06-15 17:00 | New Brunswick
No experience necessary – all are welcome!
Join artists Tim Isaac and Jenna Ross for a hands-on Raku workshop that brings fire, clay, and creativity together in an unforgettable outdoor experience. Whether you are a seasoned potter or new to ceramics, this is your chance to take part in the magic of Raku firing from pulling red-hot pots from the kiln to watching dramatic finishes emerge in real time.
WORKSHOP OVERVIEW:

Dates: Saturday & Sunday, June 14-15, 2025
Time: June 14: 9AM-5PM, June 15: 9AM-3PM
Fee: $200 per person. (Includes two full days of instruction, all materials, and your finished pieces to take home.) *No refunds for cancellations within 7 days of the workshop.
Location: Jenna’s house in Knowlesville
To register: Call 506-392-6769 or email: info@mccainartgallery.com

PLEASE NOTE: Your pots must be made and bisque-fired BEFORE the workshop.
This is essential so your pieces are ready for the Raku process.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR POTS:
All participants must create and bisque-fire their pots ahead of the workshop. We’re offering two options to help you get ready, both with instruction & support from Jenna, and both are held at the River Art Centre. (8746 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol)
Option 1: “Make it” Day
Saturday, May 24, 12PM-4PM
Option 2: Clay Drop-in Sessions
Thursday, May 29 OR June 5, 6pm-8pm
Meet Tim!

“I’m originally from Brandon, Manitoba. I found my passion for clay about 35 years ago in Winnipeg, where I took a class with some inspiring young professional potters. My love for clay deepened in Waterloo, Ontario. I became a member of the local Potters’ Co-op while also finishing a degree at the University of Waterloo.”
Meet Jenna!
"Hi, I'm Jenna and I have a deep love of clay! As it turns out, I love getting my hands dirty. The walls of my home are even (unintentionally) covered in clay. I continue to be amazed at all the things this wonderful material can do. I've been drawn to the magical art of clay shape-shifting on the wheel from a blob to a form since I first watched a potter as a kid."
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:

The dramatic process of Raku firing.
Natural burnt-surface decoration using the Obvara technique.
How to use feathers and horsehair for striking carbon markings.

What is Raku?
Raku is an exciting pottery technique involving red hot posts and combustible materials which can create dramatic effects. Raku dates back to 16th century Japan, although "Western-style raku" has put its own variations on the technique. Raku firing is known for its unpredictability, and each piece is one-of-a-kind! Raku firing is one of the most natural pottery techniques, embracing imperfection and employing all of nature's elements: earth, fire, air, and water.
The work raku translated to English means: 'happiness in the accident', pleasure, enjoyment, delight!

Raku Pop-Up Show
2025-06-15 16:00 - 18:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick

Tunnel Book Workshop with Meg Clark
2025-06-28 13:00 - 16:00 | New Brunswick
✨ Workshop Caption – Create Your Own Theatre Book
with Meg Clark — a Fredericton-based artist specializing in bookbinding, illustration, and design. Her work is featured in the upcoming exhibition Kindred Spirits: The Lucy Maud Montgomery Legacy as Interpreted by Contemporary Book Artists and Book Illustrations by local artist Leland-Wong Daugherty.
Join artist Meg Clark for a hands-on workshop exploring the art of the theatre book — a sculptural, accordion-fold book that opens to reveal a layered, three-dimensional scene, like peering into a miniature stage.
Participants will:

Learn the creative potential of tunnel (or theatre) books

Explore paper construction techniques, including folding, layering, and building depth

Design and create a unique, story-rich scene using illustration, collage, and mixed media

Bring a visual narrative to life in a playful, tactile format

All skill levels welcome — come curious and ready to create!And while you’re here, be sure to explore Kindred Spirits in the gallery to see Meg’s work on display.
Participants will create a 5″ x 7″ tunnel book, and are encouraged to bring a scenic photo as inspiration for their book.
Contact the gallery to register: 506-392-6769 | info@mccainartgallery.com

2 Hour Intro to Wheel With Jenna Ross
2025-08-11 | New Brunswick
Learn the basics of “throwing” pottery on the wheel in this 2 hour session. Come ready to be messy, have fun, embrace imperfection, and enjoy the challenge of taming a spinning blob of clay! This one-time session is perfect for absolute beginners or those who have tried it in the past and want a refresher.
For participants who would like to keep their creation: this class includes one finished piece per student (which will be fired & receive a clear glaze coat + second firing, for pickup at a later date). Students can choose to keep additional pieces for a cost of $10/piece.
Course Details:

Monday August 11th, 2-4PM & 6-8PM
Monday August 18th, 2-4PM & 6-8PM

Location: River Arts Centre,8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
To Register: 25summerstudents@mccainartgallery.com or 506-392-6769
NO REFUNDS ON CANCELLATIONS WITHIN 2 WEEKS OF WORKSHOP!!!
LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!!!

Holiday Clay Workshop with Jenna Ross
2025-11-29 10:00 - 16:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Join Jenna Ross at the River Art Centre (8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol) for a festive and fun clay workshop!
In this workshop you’ll be lead through making a handbuilt snowman sculpture and guided on how to make ornaments. Everyone will decorate their pieces using underglazes. All work will be fired and clear glaze coated for pickup at a later date – in time for Christmas!
This workshop runs from 10AM-4PM with an hour lunch at noon. You are welcome to bring or buy your lunch. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to try and get messy! Come with an open and curious spirit – clay can be delightful but sometimes unpredictable.
Students are welcome to bring their own cookie cutter shape, pattern/texture options like stamps or an old doily you don’t mind getting dirty, or anything else of the sort you want to try!
Note: Longer nails can make working with clay trickier!!!
Date: Saturday, November 29
Time: 10AM-4PM
Cost: $38 *No refunds on cancellations within 7 days of workshop
Location: River Art Centre – 8746 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol

Reindeer Felting Workshop with Michelle Landry
2025-12-06 13:00 - 15:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Join Michelle Landry at the River Art Centre (8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol) for a festive and fun felting workshop!
In this workshop, you’ll be led through making a felted a reindeer ornament! This workshop runs from 1pm-3pm, no experience is necessary, just a willingness to try!
Date: Saturday, December 6
Time: 1pm-3pm
Cost: $40 ($25 +$15 Kit)
Location: River Art Centre – 8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
Contact the gallery to register today!
506-392-6769 or info@mccainartgallery.com

6 Week Clay Handbuilding Workshop with Jenna Ross
2026-01-14 | New Brunswick
Dive into exploring clay with a sampling of different handbuilding techniques in this course for beginners. Each Wednesday students will be guided through a unique handbuilding project that introduces a new skill. Participants will also have the opportunity to manage their own ongoing self-directed piece throughout the course and during free time. You will learn about slab building, slump molds, could building, pinchpots, lidded jars, and sculpture – with the final week for glaze decorating! Each participant will complete 6 unique pieces to take home.
Bring your curiosity, embrace imperfection, willingness to get messy, and openness to play!
Two class times to choose from;
2pm-5pm or 6pm-9pm
Dates:
Wednesdays: January 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11, and 18.
Cost: $300
No refunds on cancellations within 7 days of workshop

2 Hour Intro to Wheel Workshop with Jenna Ross
2026-01-31 | New Brunswick
Learn the basics of “throwing” pottery on the wheel in this 2 hour session. Come ready to be messy, have fun, embrace imperfection, and enjoy the challenge of taming a spinning blob of clay! This one-time session is perfect for absolute beginners or those who have tried it in the past and want a refresher.
For participants who would like to keep their creation: this class includes one finished piece per student (which will be fired & receive a clear glaze coat + second firing, for pickup at a later date). Students can choose to keep additional pieces for a cost of $10/piece.
Course Details:

Saturday January 31, 10am-12pm
Saturday January 31, 1pm-3pm

Location: River Arts Centre,8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
To Register: info@mccainartgallery.com or 506-392-6769
NO REFUNDS ON CANCELLATIONS WITHIN 2 WEEKS OF WORKSHOP!!!
LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!!!

Drawing with Stephen Hutchings
2026-02-07 | New Brunswick
Join artist Stephen Hutchings and investigate drawing with pencil and charcoal!
Classes are Saturday February 7th, 21st, March 7th, and 28th.
10am-12pm, or 1:30pm-3:30pm $60 (covers all four classes) at the River Art Centre – 8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
To register, please contact: info@mccainartgallery.com or 506-392-6769

2 Hour Intro to Wheel with Jenna Ross
2026-02-21 | New Brunswick
Learn the basics of “throwing” pottery on the wheel in this 2 hour session. Come ready to be messy, have fun, embrace imperfection, and enjoy the challenge of taming a spinning blob of clay! This one-time session is perfect for absolute beginners or those who have tried it in the past and want a refresher.
For participants who would like to keep their creation: this class includes one finished piece per student (which will be fired & receive a clear glaze coat + second firing, for pickup at a later date). Students can choose to keep additional pieces for a cost of $10/piece.
Course Details:

Saturday February 21, 10am-12pm
Saturday February 21, 1pm-3pm

Location: River Arts Centre,8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
To Register: info@mccainartgallery.com or 506-392-6769
NO REFUNDS ON CANCELLATIONS WITHIN 2 WEEKS OF WORKSHOP!!!
LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!!!

Creating a Body of Work: Workshop for Artists
2026-02-28 10:00 - 16:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
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Whether you are working in clay or paint, making drawings or taking photographs, how do you create a series of images or objects that successfully form a “body of work”?
Join artist Stephen Hutchings for this full-day workshop where you will be led through a discussion of content, themes, and graphic elements that are used to help make art and craft-work more unified.
You are encouraged to bring in some of your own works so that the concepts and discussions can be relevant to what you are currently working on.
When: Saturday, February 28 from 10AM-4PM
Where: River Art Centre, Upstairs: 8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
Cost: $40
To register or for questions:
(506) 392-6769 or info@mccainartgallery.com

Raku Make-it Day
2026-02-28 12:00 - 16:00 | New Brunswick
Join Jenna for a handbuilding session where you will be led through making pots using Raku clay! You will leave having completed a minimum of 3 pots which prepares you to sign up for the Raku firing this summer!
If you wish to make more pots for the Raku firing, you can attend any clay drop-in until April 30th and ask for Raku Clay (drop-in pricing applies).
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Date: Saturday, February 28 2026
Time: 12pm-4pm
Location: River Art Centre, 8746 Main St, Florenceville Bristol
Cost: $40

To register: info@mccainartgallery.com or (506) 393-6769

*Important note: The raku firing workshop is separate: June 13, 9AM-5PM, $60.
Raku Firing Day Details

2.0 6-Week Wheel Course
2026-03-02 | New Brunswick
Ready to take your pottery skills to the next level? This Level 2 wheel course with Jenna’s Wheelhouse is designed for those who have the basics down and want to build more control, precision, and intention in their work.
This class expands on foundational techniques with a focus on making pieces well — not just making them survive 😄
Over 6 sessions, you’ll explore:
✨ Refining cylinders and improving consistency✨ Replication and working with measurement✨ Accounting for shrinkage✨ Throwing with more than 1 lb of clay✨ Throwing off the hump✨ Creating a lidded pot
By the end, you’ll feel more confident, controlled, and intentional at the wheel.
📅 Dates: March 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 23⏰ Time Options: 2–5 PM | 6–9 PM💰 Cost: $300📍 Location: River Art Centre (8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol)📩 Register: 506-392-6769 | info@mccainartgallery.com
Spots are limited — reserve yours today!

Encaustic Painting Workshop
2026-03-07 | New Brunswick
Encaustic Painting Workshop
Get ready to dive into the world of creativity by learning all about Encaustic painting with Elspeth Hagan!
Workshop Details:
MARCH 7, 2026
FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH:
9AM-12PM, $40
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FOR ADULTS:
1PM-4PM, $60
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AT THE RIVER ART CENTRE, DOWNSTAIRS
8746 MAIN ST, FLORENCEVILLE-BRISTOL
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Register now!
(506) 392-6769
info@mccainartgallery.com
What you will learn:
You will create two images on wood (one framed) using only wax, or if you choose, wax combined with other elements like paper, beads, or pictures. You are welcome to bring their own elements or work with the supplied materials.
*Special care has been taken to adapt the process to ensure a fully non-toxic experience. Heated wax and heat guns will be used with supervision.
But what on Earth is encaustic?
Encaustic “painting” is an ancient artform that uses heated beeswax combined with pigments to create distinctive images. Encaustic uses layered wax, scraped and carved to create beautiful patterns and scenes, and may incorporate other materials like coloured paper, pictures, beads, fibres, or similar mixed media. Oil paints may be used to highlight certain lines. The beauty of encaustic art lies in the distinctive texture, as well as the unpredictable and organic pictures emerging from the wax.
Special care has been taken to adapt the process to ensure a fully non-toxic experience. Heated was and heat guns will be used with supervision.
About your instructor:
Elspeth Hagan taught for almost a decade (part time) in the Studio program (ages 6-14) of the Royal Ontario Museum, as well as developing and delivering art-based museum programming to adults and children. Elspeth developed museum programming – including for seniors and differently abled adults – at the British Museum in London. Elspeth currently leads the River Valley 4-H Arts & Crafts program in Florenceville.
Elspeth has always admired the history and beauty of encaustic painting and has researched and taught this technique to children and adults.
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Introduction to Linocut Printmaking
2026-03-14 | New Brunswick
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Join local artist Mahala McIntosh for a two-part immersive and hands-on linocut workshop – perfect for beginners and those with experience alike!
Part I: In this workshop, you will learn how to carve, ink, and print your own linocut.
Part II: Building off the skills learned in part I, you will learn about reduction printing and create a 2 colour reduction print.
*You are also welcome to participate in part II if you have taken linocut workshops previously.
Both classes are suited for ages 12+, with those 12-14 accompanied by an adult.
The linocuts will be 4.5″ by 6″ each class. You are welcome to bring your own image to use, and there will be images provided.
Dates: Part I: March 14, 1pm-4pm | Part II: March 21, 9:30am-3pm
Cost: Part I: $30 | Part II: $45 | OR $60 for both
Location: The River Art Centre, Downstairs : 8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
If you have any questions, or wish to register:
(506) 392-6769 or info@mccainartgallery.com
What on Earth is Linocut Printmaking?
Linocut is a technique of relief printing, where you carve a design into a sheet of linoleum using sharp tools commonly called gouges. Once your design is carved, you then ink the linoleum using a roller, and put it ink-side down on the paper or fabric you wish to have the linocut on, and transfer the ink either by pressing with your hand very firmly, or with a press. This technique creates a bold, high-contrast image.
With this technique, the artist carves away the pieces they want to remain the colour of the paper (or fabric). *In reduction printing, after your first ink has transferred nicely, you then carve more away from the same linocut, which allows for multi-coloured linocut prints.
It should be noted that whatever you carve will be mirrored in the transfer.
Linocut is great for allowing bold styles, and is easier to carve than wood making it an excellent entry point for beginners.

Intro to Crochet with Gaby Mann
2026-04-11 13:00 - 15:30 | New Brunswick
Workshop Details:
Dates: April 11 & 25
Time: 1pm-3:30pm both dates
Location: River Art Centre, 8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
Cost: $65 *includes a $15 certificate to Close Knit Friends Yarn Shop to purchase a hook and yarn of your choice!*
*you need a size 6mm crochet hook, and 1 skein (approx 200m) worsted weight wool. You can stop by Close Knit Friends Yarn shop in Upper Kent, OR they will be attending the Fiddlehead Fibre Festival in Florenceville-Bristol on April 10 & 11
Register Now!
info@mccainartgallery.com
(506) 392-6769
In this class, you will learn the most common crochet stitches and use them to make a warm cozy cowl. The class is two sessions. In the first, you will learn the stitches on a practice piece (mug rug) you can take home. You’ll also start your cowl, and be ready to work on (or finish crocheting) it at home. In the second, we’ll refine your technique, solve problems, and show you how to sew the edges of your finished cowl together.
The cowl pattern used in this course is the Chi-Town Cowl by Kathy Kelly.
Chi-Town Crochet Cowl by Kathy KellyAbout the instructor:
Ask Gaby when she learned to crochet, sew, and knit, and she’ll tell you she can’t remember. Her sisters will attest that it started with the trolls. Remember trolls? Along with crayon nail polish and sharpie eyeliner, theirs “acquired” felt clothing (basic pattern design, handsewn seams, closures and decorations). Predictably, the dolls complained; that led to machine sewing, crochet, and knitting. In the following years, her parents went to great lengths to keep her and her sisters trying new things, many decidedly riskier than crocheting! Late, Gaby maintained her university grade average by compulsive note-taking and her sanity by knitting. Fellow residents noticed, and so began her “teaching” career.
There are no refunds on cancellations within 7 days of the workshop

Relief Carving with Megan Billings
2026-04-18 13:00 - 16:00 | River Art Centre, 8746 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Space
Join local potter Megan Billings for an afternoon of relief carving on clay tiles!
In this workshop, you will be carving on a 6″ x 6″ clay tile with instruction from Megan. After you’re finished carving an image into your tile, you will choose a finish for your tile which will be fired later my Megan.
You are encouraged to bring your own 6″ x 6″ reference image!
What is relief clay carving?
Relief clay carving is a sculptural technique used to carve away the background or add layers on top of a flat surface to create a 3D design. Typically, you use leather-hard clay – meaning not bone dry, but not floppy wet – to carve shapes and shadows to get your desired outcome.
Workshop Details:
Date: Saturday, April 18 from 1pm-4pm
Location: River Art Centre, Downstairs. (8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol)
Cost: $40 per person
No refunds on cancellations within one week of workshop
Meet Megan!
Megan has been enamored with clay for over 25 years. She discovered a passion for clay carving during a sculpture class with Peter Thomas at the New Brunswick College of Craft & Design. Megan uses her carved designs with several categories of her creations.

2 Hour Intro to Wheel Class With Jenna Ross
2026-04-26 | New Brunswick
Learn the basics of “throwing” pottery on the wheel in this 2 hour session. Come ready to be messy, have fun, embrace imperfection, and enjoy the challenge of taming a spinning blob of clay! This one-time session is perfect for absolute beginners or those who have tried it in the past and want a refresher.
For participants who would like to keep their creation: this class includes one finished piece per student (which will be fired & receive a clear glaze coat + second firing, for pickup at a later date). Students can choose to keep additional pieces for a cost of $10/piece.
Course Details:

Sunday April 26, 10am-12pm
Sunday April 26, 1pm-3pm

Location: River Arts Centre,8746 Main St, Florenceville-Bristol
To Register: info@mccainartgallery.com or 506-392-6769
NO REFUNDS ON CANCELLATIONS WITHIN 2 WEEKS OF WORKSHOP!!!
LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!!!
