Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

What is your refund policy?

Our general refund policy is that refunds are available up to 72 hours before the program start time. Within 72 hours of the start time, no refunds can be issued. Special events may have longer refund windows due to out‑of‑town artists, preparation costs, or contractual obligations. Please refer to the event description for details.

Why are workshop prices different?

The Arts Station is a registered charity and all our programming is subsidised through grants, donations, and sponsorship. We offer programming at different pricing levels to ensure everyone has an opportunity to access the arts. Pricing varies depending on materials, amenities, instructor expertise, and, when artists travel from out of town, associated travel and lodging costs. More affordable programs may include fewer materials or amenities, which is reflected in the price.

How do I request a refund?

Refunds must be requested by email at info@theartsstation.com. We cannot issue refunds over the phone or via voicemail. Refunds are available up to 72 hours before the program start time; within 72 hours, refunds cannot be issued. Refunds are processed to the original payment method and may take several business days to appear.

Why can I not receive a refund within 72 hours?

By this time, preparation has already begun, including purchasing materials and allocating instructor time. Late cancellations make it difficult to ensure instructors are paid fairly and that workshops remain financially viable. Minimum registration numbers are required for a workshop to proceed, and last‑minute changes can impact this.

What if I can’t attend or miss my workshop?

Missed workshops or no‑shows are non‑refundable and cannot be rescheduled, as materials, space, and instructor time have already been allocated.

Can someone else attend in my place?

In most cases, you may transfer your registration to another participant in the same age category by notifying us in advance. Please contact us to confirm approval.

Are photos or videos taken during workshops?

Photos or videos may be taken for promotional purposes. Please notify staff upon arrival if you prefer not to be included.

What is your behaviour and conduct policy?

We aim to create a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment. Disruptive or inappropriate behaviour may result in removal from programs without refund. Our Code of Conduct and reporting information are available on our website.

Workshops

Where can I find information about a workshop or event?

Start by visiting our Events List or Events Calendar to browse upcoming programs. Select any event to open its full event description, where you’ll find details about what’s included in the workshop fee. This may cover instruction, materials, admin time, and occasionally additional items such as a beverage or post‑workshop finishing. Most workshops include materials, typically enough for one project per participant.

Are workshops accessible?

We strive to create inclusive and accessible programming. If you have access needs, mobility considerations, sensory sensitivities, or require accommodations, please contact us in advance so we can discuss how best to support you. For information about building access, entrances, washrooms, and other accessibility details, please visit our accessibility page.

Is this workshop suitable for beginners?

Workshops are clearly labelled by skill level. Please review the event description to ensure the workshop aligns with your experience.

What do the workshop skill levels mean?

Experience: A fun, exploratory session to try something new.
Beginner: An introduction to an art form.
Skill Building: Designed to help you work more independently in an art form.
Intermediate: Builds on previously learned skills to continue developing your practice.

Will I master the art form in any of these workshops?

No. It takes years of dedicated practice to become highly skilled in an art form. Artists never stop learning or spending time developing their craft.

Why can my child not attend an adult workshop or a different age group?

Youth and adult workshops are structured differently to best support each group. Youth workshops prioritise child‑safe environments, and instructors undergo appropriate background checks. Adult workshops are designed for adult learning environments. Some events are 19+ due to liquor laws or content. For these reasons, participants must register for workshops that align with the specified age group.

What is included in the cost of a workshop?

Each event description outlines what is included in the workshop fee. This may include instruction, materials, admin time, and occasionally additional items such as a beverage or post‑workshop finishing. Most workshops include materials; however, these are typically limited to one item per participant and sufficient quantities to complete the intended project.

Pottery Workshops

How do I register for a pottery workshop?

Pottery workshop registration is first‑come, first‑served. Registration opens exactly three weeks before the workshop’s date and start time. For example, if a workshop begins on a Monday at 7pm, registration will open on a Monday at 7pm three weeks prior. To register, visit our Events List or Events Calendar and select the workshop you’re interested in.

When will the next pottery workshop be offered?

We offer pottery workshops as frequently as possible. They are very popular and fill quickly, and we do not hold a waitlist. New workshops are added throughout the year based on instructor availability and studio scheduling.

How will I know when a pottery workshop becomes available?

Pottery workshops fill fast, so keep an eye on our Events List or Events Calendar for new workshops. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to be the first to know about new workshops.

When will my pottery pieces be ready for pick-up?

Finished pieces will take several weeks before they are ready for pick-up. Pottery is a slow, multi‑step process. Your pieces must dry, be trimmed, bisque‑fired, glazed, and then fired a second time. Each stage takes time, and firing schedules depend on kiln availability and studio use. We will email you when your pieces are ready.

How long will my completed work be stored?

Finished pottery must be picked up within 30 days from the date we email you that it’s ready. Due to limited space, we cannot guarantee long‑term storage.

What if my pottery breaks?

While we take great care in handling and firing all work, occasional breakage can occur during drying and kiln firing. Unfortunately, this is an inherent risk of the ceramics process, and items cannot always be replaced or refunded.

Our workshops are designed as creative learning experiences. While the finished piece is a meaningful outcome, the true value lies in the process, exploration, and instruction you receive throughout the workshop.

Once I’ve taken a pottery workshop, can I join the studio as an annual member?

Annual access is reserved for potters who have completed the Beginner Intensive Course or have previous experience and received approval. If you have completed the Beginner Intensive Course, visit our Pottery Studio page to learn about drop-in and membership options.