Frequently Asked Questions

  • Most art classes focus on one-off projects. CanArt is built as a long-term curriculum, where students develop skills over time.

    • Clear progression through levels (like a learning pathway)

    • Skill-based badges that track growth

    • Emphasis on both technical ability and creative voice

    • A final exhibition that treats student work with professionalism

  • Students build skills across key areas of visual art, including:

    • Drawing

    • Painting

    • Colour theory

    • Composition

    • Visual language

    • Creative problem-solving

    • Material handling

      and more

    The program is designed to support both beginners and advanced students, meeting them where they are and helping them progress.


  • You can reach us anytime via our email Canart.ssm@gmail.com. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.

What is CanArt?

CanArt is a structured, skills-based visual arts program designed for children and teens. Running from September to June, it offers a clear progression in artistic development, combining technical skill-building with creativity and critical thinking.

Each year culminates in a professional exhibition, where students present their work in the gallery at the Sault Ste Marie Museum.

canart branding-12.png

Badges & Levels

CanArt Levels

CanArt Levels are broad stages of artistic development.
Each level builds on the last, helping students strengthen both technical skills and creative thinking over time.

Levels are designed to reflect:

  • Skill development

  • Creative confidence

  • Work habits and commitment

  • Understanding of visual language and materials

As students progress, projects become more advanced and independent.

CanArt Badges

Badges are smaller achievements earned along the way.
Each badge focuses on a specific skill, concept, or artistic challenge.

Badges allow students to:

  • Track their progress clearly

  • Celebrate accomplishments

  • Build confidence step-by-step

  • Develop strengths in different areas of art

Some badges have multiple “evolutions” or advanced versions, allowing students to continue mastering a skill over time. This style of progression is inspired by gamified learning systems that use badges and levels to help learners visualize growth and mastery.