SPAO is pleased to offer mentoring with our faculty members and instructors.

We are proud to be able to work with some of the most talented arts professionals in Ottawa; our staff and instructors have hugely varied skill sets that include expertise in photography and photo-based media, art history, grant writing, lighting, working in the darkroom, bookmaking, various computer software, and more. Our two facets of mentoring include private (one-on-one) mentoring and group mentoring.

MENTORS

SPAO mentors have unique professional expertise based on training and experience in lens-based art and the overall art community. They are happy to help you in any way we can to achieve your goals, build your visual literacy, and advance your technical prowess. 

John Healey
Photographic Foundations + Technical Development

Since 2011, John Healey has devoted himself to lens-based image creation and developing the talents of students within SPAO’s College Diploma Program through education and instruction. John’s images have been exhibited in galleries across Ontario and his work, HEAD-ON, has been shown nationally at the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival 2017 and his work “Michigan Man after Arcimboldo” was awarded the Grand Prize at the international Figureworks 2019 competition. John is currently a part-time instructor at SPAO. This mentoring group will focus on Healey’s areas of expertise including still-life composition, studio lighting, and image manipulation.

• Digital techniques

• Image file preparation for print and media

• Developing an artistic practice

• Advanced technical knowledge of photo equipment

Michael Tardioli
Advanced Photographic Project Development

Michael Tardioli began his career in photography as an analogue printmaker, most notably collaborating to produce prints for artists Yousuf and Malak Karsh. Tardioli developed new techniques in silver archival print-making, leading to commissions from the honourable Mitchell Sharp, Margaret Trudeau, and Roberta Bondar. As a teacher, he has mentored a generation of students, many of whom have developed into acclaimed artists and successful commercial photographers. This private mentoring group will focus on the art and exploration of portraiture.

• Project conception to realization

• Advanced knowledge in photographic printing

• Post-production, portfolio and photo book layout.

• Darkroom processes

• Digital techniques 

• Critical concept guidance

GROUP MENTORING

SPAO offers rare group mentoring opportunities with expert instructors. These customized sessions allow artists and photographers to gather in a small group with other creatives, who are committed to the development of their individual photographic practices.

Private mentoring groups are not only a way to invest in your individual photographic interest over a longer period of time, but it’s also an opportunity to build friendships, confidence, and work with a trusted mentor. Mentees have seen their skills and career goals advance significantly. Highlights have included the development of solo exhibitions, publications, and prestigious awards.

PRIVATE MENTORING (ONE-ON-ONE)

SPAO offers private one-on-one mentoring either in-studio or online. Select assistance from one of our many faculty members or instructors to best target your specific needs.