What people are saying….
“Marlene was a fantastic instructor! She shared her experience and guidance in a way that really connected me to my own creative process, which was ultimately why I was there – to get started painting again after many years. I really enjoyed all the instruction she provided, at a pace that was not too fast, yet not too slow. Marlene is very socially aware, thus was able to “read the room” and each individual in attendance benefitted from her personal guidance. The group dynamic was great and I believe it was because of Marlene’s teachings. The group was very inspired by her; I know I am!”
April 2026
Please join her newsletter to be the first to know.
November 2026 Workshops
Gibsons, BC
Workshop #1
“Exploring the Foundations”
A Playful Introduction to Painting
If you’ve been wanting to begin (or rekindle) your painting journey, this weekend is for you. Join me for a gentle, joy-filled two-day workshop designed for beginners and anyone craving a brush-up on the fundamentals. Together we’ll dive into experimentation, explore mark-making, and uncover the 7 elements of design—those essential building blocks that quietly support every painting you’ll ever make.
Over the two days, you’ll move through guided exercises that help you loosen up, trust your instincts, and get comfortable with your materials. We’ll play with colour, shape, line, value, texture, space, and form in ways that are accessible, supportive, and fun. While most of the exercises are rooted in my abstract painting practice, this workshop is absolutely open to those who prefer more object-based or realistic work—we’re simply building your creative toolbox so you can use it in any direction.
Details:
- When: November 7 & 8th, 2026
- Where: Eric Cardinal Hall, Gibsons, BC
- Time: 9:00am–3:30pm each day
- Fee: $300 (plus GST)
- Deposit: 50% to secure your spot*
Come play, learn, experiment, and discover what’s possible when you give yourself two full days of curiosity and paint-splattered joy. Supply list provided 8 weeks prior.
If you’d like to make November a true creative immersion, you’re warmly invited to join me for both weekends (November 7 & 8 and November 14 & 15). The full two-weekend experience is available for $550 (plus GST)
Workshop #2 SOLD OUT
“Stealing Like an Artist”
Please reach out if you’d like to be added to the waitlist: marlene@marlenelowden.com
And if you’re ready to get your hands seriously messy, join me for a two-day painting extravaganza inspired by the idea that great artists gather, remix, and make it their own.
Details:
- When: November 14 & 15, 2026
- Where: Eric Cardinal Hall, Gibsons, BC
- Time: 9:00am–3:30pm each day
- Fee: $300 (plus GST)
- Deposit: 50% to confirm your spot*
Across these two days, we’ll play, experiment, and make art that’s all yours, inspired by sparks you find in other artists’ work. And yes, we’ll be guided by David Bowie’s glorious wisdom:
“The only art I’ll ever study is the stuff that I can steal from.”
This workshop is best for folks who have some painting experience (or who joined me for the previous weekend) —you don’t need to be a pro, just comfy enough with your materials to dive in and explore. Supply list provided 8 weeks prior to the course.
Contact me at marlene@marlenelowden.com to reserve your spot.
*Cancellation Policy: Refunds are available one month before the workshops. If you need to cancel after that period, I can’t guarantee a refund, but I will do my best to fill your spot.
“Your course has sparked a rewarding endeavour which is enriching my day to day life.” Bev
Teaching Highlights
Federation of Canadian Arts Peace River Chapter – July 2025
Vernon Summer School of the Arts – 2024 & 2025
Gibsons School of the Arts – August 2025
Mentor for Mastrius – Since January 2025
Art & Yoga Retreat Morocco – September 2023
Vancouver Film School – Summer 2023
Gibsons School of Arts – August 2021
Art Girl Rising Video Art Journey
Art Instruction – 5 part video series with Place des Arts
Open Your Art Retreat with Marleen Vermeulen , Spain, 4 Retreats
Facilitator, Thrive Art Studios, a professional development network for female artists
More about Marlene’s teaching experiences.
Marlene Lowden grew up in an ocean side town on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, just outside of Vancouver, Canada. After several years in television broadcasting, she resumed her lifelong interest in painting, drawing, and photography. She draws from her experience in television and video production, applying to canvas similar principles of composition and storytelling. While working and raising her two daughters, she studied with a range of instructors learning watercolour, acrylic, and oil painting techniques. In 2021 she was named one of “28 contemporary Canadian artists to know” by Create Magazine . She is honoured to be included in the All She Makes curated artist directory, the 4th Edition of their magazine and in Art Seen Magazine based in the U.K. Her work appears in private and public collections in Canada and internationally. She lives and works in her hometown of Gibsons, BC.
Learn more about Marlene here.
… your presentation, communication, information and instruction was professional and I also felt an intimate heart connection with each of us that made me look forward to each segment.” Denise
In the meantime, here’s a short refresher on colour mixing (15 minutes).
Honestly, I’m blown away by this course. I learned SO much that I will definitely use. Everyone in the group was amazing to work with too. Really was a fun and informative experience. I am so excited to use these new skills and I’m truly very grateful. I hope you do this again because I have so many people that I would love to share this with!” Julie
Over the years, I have taken numerous art workshops, never have I had an instructor share so much of herself, her vast knowledge and her creative expression. She has a kind nature and a wonderful, welcoming personality. She is articulate and shares her love of life and encouraged us to dive deep into our work. Her class started simply, including the use of tools and painting basics. I was able to follow eagerly and learned many valuable painting techniques. The supply list was limited and functional. The time Marlene allotted to the processes was well regarded. I had ample time to reflect and practice the many challenges to becoming a more successful artist.I would highly recommend Marlene’s class to every painter. I thank her for showing me the rewarding life that painting , and all that goes with, has to offer.” Patricia
You must be logged in to post a comment.