about us

Visual art programs that bring joy into your life while building self-confidence, pride and creative thinking skills.

Ongoing Learning

Each term, our program introduces new materials, techniques, and concepts, building on a strong foundation of knowledge. This keeps our students engaged and excited to grow creatively.

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Hands-on activities

Our activities are designed to build skills and self-expression, whether it’s learning how to draw, paint, sculpt, experiment with new materials and techniques or explore the work of other artists.

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Personalized Learning

Our program encourages self-expression through art, allowing our students to explore their interests, build confidence, and develop lifelong skills.

At Crush of Colour art school, students explore the visual arts through a personalized journey of ideas, techniques, and materials. Led by an experienced instructor, each individual is guided to discover their unique creative voice. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, you'll find a supportive space to unlock your full artistic potential.

At Crush of Colour, we’re passionate about making art accessible, engaging, and fun for everyone. Join us today and experience the joy of creating!

Jennifer Pickering

Owner and Instructor, Jennifer Pickering

I’m Jennifer Pickering, the owner and lead instructor at Crush of Colour. With over 8 years of experience teaching students from grades 1-12 in private schools, I am a BC certified independent school art teacher. I’ve also taught adult painting classes as a seasional instructor at UBC. Since 2022 I’ve taught classes for both children and adults through Crush of Colour.

I’m certified in both standard and emergency first aid and CPR/AED for both children and adults.

In addition to my teaching career, I’m a contemporary artist with 20 years of experience. You can explore my portfolio here. I hold a Master of Fine Arts in Studio Arts from UBC and have had the privilege of studying at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, France. My work has been showcased in international exhibitions and residencies.

From 2006 to 2010, I served as the Artistic and Administrative Director of the Alternator Centre for Contemporary Arts in Kelowna, BC. I also spent two years in Argentina, where I studied tango and worked as a visual artist, before moving to the Middle East. I taught art in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh (IB School) for seven years. In 2020/21, I taught at Collingwood School in West Vancouver before opening this art school.

Originally born in Switzerland and raised in Vernon, BC, I’ve been calling West Vancouver home since 2020. I’ve also been a dedicated board member of the West Vancouver Community Arts Council since 2022.

vision

A joyful life through art

community feedback

  • People forget how important the arts and creative expression are

  • The casualness of it - that there is music playing, kids can wander between activities based on what interests them

  • Nice instructors

  • Support & encouragement from Ms. Jen to explore their creativity

  • The wonderful instructors and their willingness to share their love of art

  • Improved my child’s creativity

values

c r e a t i v i t y : inspiring curiosity and connection through art
w e l l - b e i n g : creating joyful moments
e x c e l l e n c e : thoughtful and caring service

mission

Our mission is to harness the transformative power of art to inspire, connect, and uplift communities. We are dedicated to providing exceptional arts education for individuals of all ages, nurturing creativity, self-expression, and personal growth in every lesson.

social responsibility

we consider the environment in all we do, from purchasing our tools and materials to reducing, reusing and recycling