Upcoming Events for 2025
A Portrait Painting Workshop
with Will Lottering
Date: Saturday, May 31 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Aurora Town Hall 2nd Floor, 100 John West Way, Aurora ON
A 1 hour follow-up critique session will be scheduled in approximately 3 weeks.
Cost: $75.00 members and $85.00 non members.
All members and non-members are welcome.​
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Space is limited to 15 participants only.
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Workshop description:
You will experience the process of portrait painting. You will paint a portrait systematically, to create a likeness with a unique character. You will create your own artwork.
In this workshop, participants will be taught how to set up and 'see' the portrait, taking into consideration things like reference point, proportions, placement and also how to photograph our live model during sitting so you have a reference to work from after the workshop.
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You will also learn how to create an underpainting of the subject. By mixing starting colours for the portrait, you will work toward a finished piece. Participants will be required to finish their portraits independently after the workshop has concluded.​
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A 1 hour follow-up critique session will be scheduled with Will approximately 3 weeks after the workshop. Participants will be able to ask questions regarding their finished portraits at this time.
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Please note:
- Drawing skills are an asset for this workshop.
- Participants must bring all of their own materials as per Will's Material List.
- Work surfaces must be prepared and ready to use at the beginning of the workshop. Info regarding preparation will be forwarded to participants upon registration.​
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Please contact us if you have any questions or need more info before signing up.
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Register today!
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Meet Will Lottering!
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William Lottering grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa. At an early age, he was enrolled in extra-curricular art classes at the Johannesburg College of Art and Design and in private drama lessons. Learning from respected practising arts professionals proved to be a life-long advantage.
After graduating from the University of Pretoria, William was approached by South African painter Bettie Cilliers-Barnard to join her installation team at the South African Association of the Arts. Installing art exhibitions bi-weekly, the young artist gained first-hand experience in jurying and gallery installation procedures; principles which he applied throughout his career.
William met the drama director Francois Swart, whose intellectual influence and drama philosophy made a lasting impression on him. He spent many hours in the PACT (state drama and opera) workshops, creating sets and props, where he was introduced to the technical aspect of the stage.
Determined to make his mark, William Lottering stepped into the broadcasting world as a radio announcer and producer at the SABC. At Radio Suid-Afrika, he created and presented arts programmes, wrote scripts, read news, conducted interviews, provided voice for TV and advertising, produced documentaries and directed over 200 radio dramas.
When William moved to Canada in 1992, he resumed his role as educator. With a rich background in art and drama, he became an arts program head at the York Region District School Board. As program head, William organized art events and festivals, and chaired arts committees. He was a co-director of ArtFun and Fantasy Day Camp, a York Region Arts Camp instructor between 1992-2016, and taught at the Haliburton School of the Arts in the summers of 1998 -2004.
William Lottering's artworks are regularly displayed in exhibitions and other events. Recently, he has been prioritizing his studio practice, although he still teaches painting and life drawing, writes more dramatic works, gives talks about contemporary art and regularly travels for research. Lottering's work is represented in public collections and commissions in South Africa and Canada. He is a member of Propeller Art Collective in Toronto and the Playwrights Guild of Canada.
​Full bio can be found on Will's website: www.williamlottering.com
Join SOYRA for this All Canadian Art Lovers' Getaway!
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SOYRA is pleased to bring you a 4 Days / 3 Nights round trip to Montreal and Ottawa.
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Experience a vibrant blend of history, culture, and art on this unforgettable journey from Toronto to Montreal and Ottawa! Travel in comfort as we make scenic stops along the way, including The Big Apple and charming Mallorytown.
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At a glance:
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Day 1: Montreal Awaits!
Arrive in Montreal and settle into a centrally located hotel before exploring the city at your leisure. Stroll through Old Montreal, indulge in delicious local cuisine, or soak in the lively atmosphere of Canada’s cultural capital.
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Day 2: A Creative Escape
Immerse yourself in Montreal’s rich artistic scene with a visit to the McCord Stewart Museum and a walk along the famous Sherbrooke Street art district. Take in world-class galleries, browse boutique shops, and enjoy free time to savor the city's charm.
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Day 3: Ottawa’s Iconic Art Scene
Travel to Canada’s capital for an extended visit to the renowned National Gallery of Canada. Wander through ByWard Market, then choose between exploring the stunning Karsh Photograph Collection at Château Laurier or the Ottawa Art Gallery.
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Day 4: Ottawa Gallery Exploration
Spend time visiting the galleries of your choice; Ottawa Art Gallery, City Hall Art Gallery, Karsh Photography Collection and the Snow Goose Gallery.
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Your cost for this art adventure is approximately $1,100 CAD with a deposit of $200 which is refundable 90 days prior to departure.
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Spaces are limited!
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Book now for an inspiring adventure filled with art, culture, and unforgettable moments!​
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Deposits can be made via etransfer to cranberrytours@gmail.com or by credit card (link below)
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