Create your future.

Visual Arts, Handcrafts and Photography

Unleash your inner artist and creative genius with our Visual Arts, Handcrafts and Photography courses

Photography: Capture the perfect sunset, paint with your camera, and master both traditional and digital photography techniques with Byron Community College. If you have an eye for stunning images, you’ll discover the perfect course to frame your creativity and produce breathtaking photographs. Let your visual storytelling skills shine!

Visual Arts: Become a visual artist or designer, or simply explore your creativity through our engaging and fun courses in painting, drawing, screen printing, art history and Floristry

Handcrafts: Discover the beauty of crafting as you explore various mediums, from fabric to clay, metal to mosaic. Our hands-on courses include pottery, sculpture, knitting, crochet, basket weaving, sewing, jewellery making, welding and sooo many more.

At Byron Community College, we’re all about nurturing your creative spirit, no matter where you are on your artistic journey.

Our experienced tutors will guide you through key techniques that unlock your artistic potential. Plus, these some of these courses are nationally-recognised and fee-free and can be your stepping stone to further professional training in visual art.

Advanced Floristry


Each week offers the opportunity to learn and create a different floral design ranging from professionally wired flower crowns to stunning modern bouquets and unique statement arrangements‚ all of which are yours to take home and enjoy for the remainder of the week.

All Ways Arts with Pavel Sola

6 x Mon, 11 Nov - 16 Dec, 10am - 1pm, Mullum, ACE Funded $0*

Join us for a series of empowering art workshops designed specifically for individuals with diverse abilities. Through playful exploration and creative collaboration Art will be made!

From complete novice to experienced artist, this workshop uses multi-faceted techniques to cater for all. An exhibition concludes the program to celebrate the creative adventure and share the journey with our trusted community.

These inclusive sessions will provide a supportive and accessible environment where participants can explore their creativity through various artistic processes.

Led by experienced facilitators, the workshops will cater to diverse needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy and benefit from the artistic process and tap into the creative spirit.

This course is fully funded and all materials will be provided.

All participants must attend with their individual support worker. Attending support workers are encouraged to take part and have a sincere desire to engage in the creative process. Be part of this exciting project in a newly opened studio to discover the joy of self-expression through creative collaboration!

Art of Paper & Print


Art of Paper & Print is an introductory course into several ways to make Prints. This 8 week practical course will explore drawing and the creative possibilities of transposing drawings into mono-prints and relief-prints. 

Art Therapy Intro with Claudia Gyr

Mullum, $170

Learn the basic principles of Art Therapy and deepen into some experiential, interactive processes to give you a taste of how art therapy can support personal growth and healing. This course is offered in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Absolutely no artistic skills are needed.

Basket Weaving with Ella Galea

3 x Fri, 15 Nov - 29 Nov,
9.30am - 2.30pm, Mullum, $280

Learn how to create beautiful baskets using natural fibres from plants that grow around us. You will learn how to recognise, gather and prepare local plants for weaving then be shown basic weaving techniques. This is a great way for people to come together and share their creative ideas. It's fun and very relaxing, but be warned, it's addictive! Additional materials $20.

 

Crochet For Beginners with Stefanie Kwiatkista

2 x Sat, 19 Oct - 26 Oct,
10am - 2pm, Mullum, $240

Crochet is meditative, relaxing and lots of fun. Use basic crochet stitches and different textured yarns to create a beautiful scarf and another simple garment to take home. When you get hooked you can't stop.
Visual Arts Certificate III image

CUA31120 - Certificate III in Visual Arts

Visual Arts Certificate III image
With Trainer, Virginia Reid

2024 intake is now closed for applications. The next intake will be in 2025.
Please enquire to be added to the waitlist


Are you ready to unleash your artistic potential? Dive into the vibrant world of visual arts and craft, and design with our nationally-recognised qualification.

With a focus on developing a diverse range of visual art skills, you'll have the opportunity to take charge of your own creative journey while receiving expert guidance and support from industry professionals. From mastering drawing techniques to exploring the fascinating realms of art theory and history, you'll gain the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic arts industry.
 
Discover the joy of producing stunning paintings, sculptures, prints, and digital images while honing your creativity and expression. Our hands-on approach ensures that you not only learn the fundamentals of artistry but also cultivate your unique style and vision.
 
Join us and embark on a transformative learning experience where you'll contribute to the health and safety of yourself and others, document your creative progress, and unleash your boundless imagination. Enrol now and let your artistic journey begin!

Drawing Introduction with Shellie Anfield

2 x Sat, 2 - 9 Dec, 9am - 3pm, Mullum, $240

This short course is designed for those who want to draw but aren’t sure where to start or perhaps you used to enjoy drawing but it’s been a while and you just need a refresher to get you started again.
Develop your drawing skills as we explore an array of drawing techniques and materials with a focus on line, texture, proportion and tone while immersed in a supportive and relaxed art studio environment. You will come away with greater confidence in your drawing abilities and some drawing exercises that can be repeated at home as you continue to hone your skills.
 

Dreaming in Colour 1 with Shelly Anfield

 

If you are a complete beginner, if you have painted in the past but want a refresher course or if you simply want to be making art with the camaraderie of colleagues, this course will cover the basics - how to mix colour and understand hue, value, saturation and temperature to compose satisfying mages.
Week by week this class will step you through a process to help you paint expressively and develop your own painting signature.
 

Festive Florals with Leena Martens

Tue, 10 Dec, 9.30am - 2.00pm, Mullum, $265

Transform your home into a festive wonderland this December with our enchanting Festive Florals class. Craft two exquisite Christmas designs: a timeless wreath to adorn your front door or grace your home, and a complimentary table center-piece using an array of seasonal Christmas-themed flowers and embellishments. Elevate your holiday décor with hands-on creativity and make this December truly magical!

Floristry Intermediate

 
3 x Fri, 8 Nov - 22 Nov
9.30am - 2.30pm, Mullumbimby, $495

Each week offers the opportunity to learn and create a different floral design ranging from professionally wired flower crowns to stunning modern bouquets and unique statement arrangements, all of which are yours to take home and enjoy for the remainder of the week.

Get Your Camera Off Auto! with Nelly Le Comte

4 x Tue, 27 August - 17 September
9.30am - 12.30pm, Byron $240

Do you own an amazing DSLR and it's still on Auto? Let me teach you how to use your DSLR camera to its full potential. We will work with aperture and exposure going beyond auto or program mode. Based on weekly theory classes and fun assignments, you will learn how to capture better images, improve week by week, and end up with great shots that you are happy to share with others as you become more confident with your camera. This course is suited to introductory/intermediate DSLR users.

Hand Building Ceramics Introduction with Lauren Siemonsma

$420

Ochre's Hand Building workshop is a beautiful 'entree' into the world of clay. Come and sip tea and coffee while being guided through all the basics of hand building in our beautiful light-filled studio. You will learn how to make a pinch pot, coil, slab build, attach handles, legs, etc...even how to glaze and decorate your beautiful pieces.

Handmade Paper Lights with Susan Wright

Sat, 30 Nov, 9.30am - 1pm, Mullum, $130

In this workshop, you will learn to make beautiful handmade paper using recycled waste paper, flowers, raw cotton and natural textures.

You'll gain skills to be able to prepare your pulp, pull sheets of paper, add seeds for gift tags, and emboss the wet paper for an extra special effect.

Indigo Dye and Shibori with Anne Leon


10am - 4pm, Mullum, $295
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Indigo and Shibori in this exciting workshop! Discover the traditional Shibori techniques of Arashi, Bomaki (pole wrapping), Itajime (clamping), as well as stitching, binding, and wrapping to craft stunning patterns. Plus, master the art of creating an Indigo vat quickly, without the usual weeks-long wait for maturation. Unlock the secrets of Indigo and Shibori with us! Additional materials $50

Inspirational Sewing with Annie Martin

Byron, $295

Be Inspired and learn lots of sewing techniques to take your sewing to the next level!! Learn how to sew in a zip, make buttonholes and sew buttons, shirring, appliqué, rouching, piping, roule and use of overlocker. Students can then apply techniques to a garment. Students must have some sewing skill or have completed Sewing for Beginners.

Introduction to Floristry with Leena Martens

 3 x Fri, 18th Oct - 1st Nov 2024
9.30am to 2.30pm, Mullum, ACE Funded $0*
Interested in learning about floristry? This 3 week introduction course will step you through the process of creating a variety of floristry designs.

Knitting For Beginners


Learn knitting the European way! An efficient and faster way of knitting, in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Over the 3 sessions you will learn basic knitting techniques including how to cast on and off, knit and pearl stitches as well as how to decrease and increase stitches whilst creating a simple piece like a scarf, wrap of baby blanket.

Lino Block Printing with Potts

Mullum, $160

Many printmaking processes require some serious expertise and equipment. But lino block printing is amongst the easiest method out there and can be done from home using a few basic tools. This course is perfect for you if you want to try printmaking for the first time, no drawing experience needed. Join us in a supportive and empowering environment to explore a new skill. Additional materials $35.

Natural Plant Dye and Shibori with Anne Leon


10am - 4pm, Mullum, $295


Embark on a fascinating journey into the world of natural dyeing and Shibori techniques in this hands-on workshop. Explore the magic of extracting vibrant colours and intricate imprints from plants such as leaves, flowers, and roots. Learn various Shibori methods, including stitching, clamping, folding, twisting, and compressing, to create mesmerizing patterns on fabric. Unleash your creativity and discover the artistry of botanical dyeing with us! Additional materials $50.

Photography - Your Personal Vision with Michelle Eabry

Mullum, $360
This six-week course is designed for any photographer with a passion to go deeper in their practice and improve their skills of effective image making. Students will be encouraged to explore various photographic styles to help define their unique visual path, with a goal to recognise their individual vision and find their voice when it comes to taking photos. Students with all levels of experience are welcome.

Plant Life Drawing 2


Plant Life Drawing 2 will extend your creative focus as we explore the work of significant artists while studying plants and natural forms through a variety of mediums and processes.

Playful Painting with Melanie Dilday


There will be dancing, splashing, spraying, scraping, dripping, laughing and a head-over-heels love affair with colour. Each of us will be painting on our own canvas, adding new layers, in a fun and encouraging environment. Rediscover your enthusiasm for creativity and uncover painting talents you never knew you had. Additional $30 for materials

Portrait Painting with Ash Darq



Are you keen to start painting portraits? Do you already paint people but would like to improve on your realism?

From the subtle curve of a smile to the piercing gaze of the eyes, portrait painting has long been revered as a timeless art form, transcending generations and cultures.

Portraiture Photography Masterclass with Herberto Smith

$240

Are you ready to elevate your portrait photography skills to new heights? Join us in this Portraiture Photography Masterclass, where we explore the art and soul of capturing compelling and authentic portraits.

Printmaking Introduction with Rachel Dun

Sat & Sun, 16 - 17 Nov, 9am - 4pm, Mullum, ACE Program $0*
 
This course provides an introduction to printmaking with a focus on two popular techniques: monoprint and linocut. Students will explore the basic principles, tools, materials, and methods of these printmaking processes, developing their skills through hands-on practice and creative experimentation.
 
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist looking to expand your skills, this course offers a hands-on, immersive experience that will ignite your artistic passion.

Repair and Rewear with Christina Cameron

2 x Sat, 16 - 23 Nov, 9am - 1pm, Mullum, ACE Funded $0*
 
Learning to Mend is a fun and creative way to reduce our impact on the Earth. Learn hand repairs including visible mending using sashiko (a traditional Japanese technique), patching, hems, buttons, how to repair torn seams, darning, minor alternations and a touch of embroidery. 

Rustic Christmas Wreath with Leena Martens

Tue, <span style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Calibri, " sans-serif",="" "mongolian="" baiti",="" "microsoft="" yi="" "javanese="" text",="" "yu="" gothic";="" font-size:="" 14.6667px;="" white-space-collapse:="" preserve;"="">3rd December, 10.00am -12.30 pm $130

Bring your home to life over the festive season and amaze your friends and family with a stunning, hand made, Christmas wreath.

During this workshop you will learn the techniques involved in creating a Rustic Christmas Wreath, using a natural base and a mixture of beautiful fresh and dried materials.

Once complete your wreath is yours to take home to enjoy for the festive season, to hang on your front door, in your home or gift to some one special.

This course is for beginners, with no previous experience required. Bring along your friends and festive spirit as we get creative. This one off workshop is not to be missed.

Sculptural Metalwork with Nyree Smith


10am - 4pm, Mullum, $470

In this sculpture class you’ll explore different metalworking techniques in a safe and fun environment. These include, cutting, fixing (including welding) and forming metal, depending on the design you choose. This class is a logical choice if you are a previous welding student or existing hobbyist who wants to expand your artistic and practical skill base. Also, novices who want a safe “taste” of metalwork, are also encouraged to participate.

Sewing For Beginners with Annie Martin

6 x Tue, 5 Nov - 10 Dec, 6pm - 8.30pm, Byron, $295

For the complete beginner to gain confidence and learn all the sewing basics e.g. patterns, cutting, machines and overlockers. Make a simple garment in a fun, stimulating and creative environment. You will need to phone the tutor on enrolment to discuss pattern and material choice.

Silver Jewellery - An Introduction with Michelle Walker

Sat & Sun, 19 - 20 Oct, 9am - 5pm, Mullum, $320 or
Sat & Sun, 30 Nov - 1 Dec, 9am - 5pm, Mullum, $320
 
Learn the fundamentals of making silver jewellery with this weekend workshop. This introductory course covers the key skills you need for precious metal work; perfect for anyone keen to start the journey of jewellery design and making. You can expect to complete two or three pieces of finished jewellery. Additional materials fee $90.

Stretch Sewing

6 x Wed, 6 Nov - 11 Dec, 6pm - 8.30pm, Byron, $295

Learn to sew all the latest fashion garments with stretch fabrics. Using a domestic machine and overlocker you will learn techniques including binding, hemming and elasticising to produce quality garments such as yoga-wear, t-shirts, dancewear and swimwear. Basic sewing skills are necessary.

Sustainable Floristry with Leena Martens


4 x Thurs 14th Nov - 5th Dec 2024‚ 
9.30am to 2.30pm, Mullum, ACE Funded $0*

Join our class on creating beautiful floral arrangements with a focus on environmental sustainability. Emphasising seasonal Australian-grown flowers, you will learn to celebrate the beauty and imperfections that nature offers. Discover techniques for arranging flowers using alternative containers and mechanics that promote sustainability.

Watercolour In Black And White with Harry Westera

2 x Sat, 26 October - 2 November, 9.30am - 4.30pm, Byron, $330

'Tone does the work, colour gets the credit' is an expression often used by artists. Learn to paint beautiful watercolours by painting tone with just one colour: Black! Create beautiful effects of light and dark; develop fresh, fluid wash effects and strong dynamic pictures. Demonstrations and guided exercises will improve your skills and confidence. Become better equipped to express the beauty of colour through this workshop in black and white.

Weather and Light in Watercolour with Harry Westera

Byron, $270

The brilliant colours of sunset, the glaring light and dark shadows of high summer, the warm colours of autumn, a rainy winter day in the city, the warm colours of autumn, the fresh colours of spring or dark storm clouds approaching. In this two Saturday workshop we will paint a variety of outdoor scenes under different weather and light conditions.

We will explore and develop various watercolour techniques which best express these conditions: wet-in-wet, drybrush, glazing, layering etc.

Welding & Metal Fabrication with Nyree Smith

Sat & Sun, 5 & 6 October
9am to 4pm, Mullum, $470 or

 
Sat & Sun, 14 - 15 Dec,
9am - 4pm, Mullum, $470


Learn to build and repair tubular steel frames with a MIG welder! Experienced welders and novices alike have the opportunity to learn and practice welding tubular steel, both painted and galvanised. Also included is an introduction to techniques and tricks of the trade needed to construct in tubular steel, so you can start planning your own projects for furniture, gates, railings, or repairing the trailer etc.

Welding Introduction with Nyree Smith


Sat & Sun, 28 & 29 September
9am to 5pm, Mullum, $470 or
Sat & Sun, 7 - 8 Dec,
9am - 4pm, Mullum, $470

If you’ve always wanted to learn electric welding but have never had the opportunity, or you may simply want to hone your welding skills, then here’s your chance. Let metal artisan / fabricator, Nyree, take you on a journey to greater independence and practical, creative empowerment through the amazing world of metalwork!