Discover why more than 7k clients, since 2002,  adore us and rave about our programs Register now.

Atelier123 logo

Get to know us

we lead beginners of all ages through transformative art experiences

The story behind the canvas


Let's make beauty out of all this mess

Nancy Macdonald traffics in hope and joy. She is a bestselling author, public speaker and owner of Atelier 123 (formerly art studio for children) where she has had the great privilege, joy and mess of serving over 7000 beginner artists of all ages. Her love of the unexpected, coincidence, hidden meaning and humour are thrown onto every canvas.  The art school is an opportunity to love, nurture and empower others and give Nancy the most joyful work she could imagine.

  I lead beginners of all ages,  from 3-83, through transformative Fine Art experiences to create the wall worthy art of their dreams.

– Nancy Macdonald, Creative Force and Founder, Atelier 123

Talk with Nancy
ASFC atelier bathroom photo
our values

Atelier Agreements

  • Mutual respect, appreciation and kindness are fostered and reciprocated
  • Manners are encouraged and appreciated and, While they are no substitute for substance, they go a long way towards civility
  • We clean up after ourselves and leave spaces as we found them
  • We leave each other better than we found each other
  • We come with an open mind, open heart and growth mindset
  • We welcome the challenge to go from good to great
  • We have fun + there is challenge and work involved

 For me, Art is a subject and a discipline and not a place to hang out and do whatever you want, although I truly encourage you to do that on your own.   In my studio I  am here to share, enlighten and work through a process that I hope will serve you in your life well beyond Art.  NM

"Graceful. Eloquent. Patient. Real. Dynamic. Inspirational. Organized.

We have had the pleasure of having Nancy as a part of the community that has instilled creative thinking and trust with our three children. Her incredible organization, planning and ability to find just the right words, examples and medium to inspire our children to step out of their box and create artistic pieces has provided not only our children but my husband and I with great joy. She is more than an art teacher, she is a trusted person that sees each of our children in a different light and always with patience and grace. Our children always left Nancy with an extra bounce in their step and a smile on their face, but not before showing off their “creative projects” to us with genuine pride. Any child or family, regardless of their artistic ability – because Nancy brings it out in every child. Everyone should have Nancy in their community, she is a gift that you can give your children, and the art that comes back – well, hangs on our walls proudly."
A.B.

We frequently lead Corporate Workshops

Some of our partners include:

Birch Hill Equity Partners logo
Broad Reach Communications logo
Publicis Sapient logo
Sklar Wilton & Associates logo

FAQ

Since 2002, we have served over 7000 families.

There are weekly private workshops for that client who wants to work weekly. See the registration page here

And there are one off Private Workshops booked on this schedule here

Both are for all ages 3-85.

Semi private groups are curated by the participants.

We begin with a phone or zoom meeting to discuss your art goals. You send 2-3 ideas of what you would like to create. We narrow down to one source of inspiration. You choose canvas size, book studio time and send payment. I create a lesson plan, curate all supplies and materials. You arrive at the studio with nothing more than an open heart and mind.  We work step by step, often with me painting beside you to articulate steps. After the 2-3 hour session, depending on complexity, we may book more sessions to complete the project. The completed canvas stays at the studio until dry and is varnished on site. Once dry, it is then it is ready for pick up and install.

I wanted my young children to have more art, creativity and community in their lives. That was over 22 years ago! I have been grateful that the art school has exploded in popularity. It has taught and continues to teach me so many lessons, both on the canvas and off.

ASFC is one of my loves! It is a place to for both you and me to grow, nurture and explore. I am grateful to meet and work with new people of all ages doing something that brings joy. My hope is always that a creative life will allow us to feel our power, ability to solve problems and make beauty.

Explore our website or set up a zoom call with me and I will happily share all we do. We do large canvas projects, family paint sessions, s commissions, camps, adult retreats and more. If you have blank walls and an idea of something you want – reach out. I love to say yes!

Find Us Here

City Studio:

From September to June

123 Hillsdale Ave W.
Toronto, ON.
M5P 1G6

Farm Studio:

From June to September

415719 10 Line
Clarksburg, ON
N0H 1J0

Contact Us