Explore why fish have captured the human imagination across history as sacred symbols, totems, objects of desire and subconscious archetypes. Led by artist Jesus Rivera (VisualGzas), this three-session workshop blends art history, creative games and guided mixed-media studio production. Using Rivera's Easter Egg Theory, participants learn how to use symbolism and semiotics to encode personal narratives, inside jokes and secret memories into a textured 2D/3D panel. This workshop is the first instalment in the multi-part Obsessions series (Fish, Snakes, Bees and Cats), leading toward an end-of-year collective gallery showcase at the Urban Art Collective.

Workshop Schedule (6 Hours)

Day 1: History, Symbolism & The Secret Life of Fish in Art

• Speed-Fish warm-up exercise on index cards to break perfectionism and introduce participants.
• Visual presentation covering fish symbolism across art history from cave paintings to contemporary street culture.
• Surrealist Mashup Cut-Out exercise using curated historical references, collage papers and paint markers.
• Brainstorming personal reference images and hidden Easter egg symbols to prepare for Day 2.

Day 2: Cultural Roots, Semiotics & Canvas Prep

• "Sacred, Fetish or Kitsch" voting activity followed by group discussion on cultural roots, folklore and personal heritage.
• "Fish Swaps" timed collaborative drawing exercise.
• Finalizing composition layouts, applying background washes and building collage foundations to dry fully for Day 3.

Day 3: Mixed-Media Studio Workshop & Reveal

• Technique demonstration covering paint layering, fine-line detailing, 3D relief attachment and protective top coats.
• Open studio production time to complete the mixed-media panel with one-on-one feedback from Jesus.
• Mini gallery walk where artists display their finished work and reveal their hidden Easter eggs to the group.

By The End Of This Workshop, You Will

• Understand the history, cultural folklore and semiotics of fish symbolism in classical and contemporary art.
• Apply the Easter Egg Theory to hide personal narratives and meaningful symbols within your visual work.
• Combine acrylic painting, collage, markers and 3D relief elements onto a finished wooden panel.
• Complete a portfolio-ready mixed-media artwork eligible for the end-of-year UAC gallery showcase.

What We Provide

• Paints & Inks: Acrylic paints, detail markers, brushes and protective clear finishes.
• Collage & 3D Media: Air-dry clay, modelling paste, curated vintage printouts, collage papers, adhesives and glues.
• Substrates & Tools: Rigid wooden panels, cutting tools and full access to studio workstations.

What To Bring & Requirements

• Personal Reference & Ephemera: 1 to 2 personal reference photos, small found flat objects, fabric scraps or sentimental items to embed into your panel.
• Apparel: Wear clothes and footwear that can handle paint and adhesives.
• Skill Level: All levels welcome. No prior mixed-media experience required.

Event Details

• Dates: To be announced
• Format: 3 weekly sessions (2 hours per session, 6 hours total)
• Location: Urban Art Collective Art Hub, 50 Bayswater Avenue, Ottawa
• Instructor: Jesus Rivera (VisualGzas)
• Level & Audience: All Levels (creators interested in mixed media, symbolism and personal storytelling). Part 1 of the UAC Obsessions series.
• Maximum Capacity: 12 attendees
• Minimum Enrolment: 6 attendees required