Program Overview

First Nations Fine Arts (FNFA) is vibrant, successful two-year Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art diploma program that seeks to honour and support the rich culture and tradition of First Nations art in the Northwest.

Students of Aboriginal descent develop a solid foundation in First Nations Northwest coast art while they learn and practice the traditional art of woodcarving alongside world-renowned master artist/instructors Dempsey Bob (Tahltan/Tlingit) Stan Bevan (Tahltan/Tlingit/Tsimshian), Ken McNeil (Tahltan/Tlingit/Nisga'a) and Dean Heron (Kaska/Tlingit).

The First Nations Fine Arts program includes field trips to important cultural events, cultural sites, museums and galleries. Visiting artists, dignitaries and cultural advocates enhance the learning environment with their knowledge, wisdom and experience. Students mount a number of public art exhibits each year to acquire the skills required by professional artists to display, promote and sell their own creative work.

FIRST NATIONS FINE ARTS CERTIFICATE & DIPLOMA

Students begin with fundamentals of two-dimensional Northwest coast art design, drawing and painting basics, followed by building and using traditional tools, and traditional work carving techniques.

Students carve a number of pieces to build their proficiency. These include small- to medium-sized plaques, spoons, portrait masks and bowls. All students are expected to participate in carving program legacy projects that will remain at NWCC campuses and make the College campuses more welcoming and supportive of First Nations learners.

Students can opt for a one year Certificate or complete two years of study to earn a two year Diploma. Students who complete the First Nations Fine Arts Diploma with a GPA of B or better will be eligible for acceptance into third year of the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual or General Fine Arts major) degree program at Emily Carr University of Art + Design.