Media and Visual Arts short-term training courses and workshops provided concentrated career-related learning opportunities for artists, technicians and other cultural workers. Most courses were designed for self-employed people with limited time, who needed to upgrade their practical skills in a particular hardware or software application for them to earn more of their living directly from their art practice.

Courses were designed as stand-alone learning opportunities. Participants were encouraged, however, to attend one or more courses to upgrade their skills in preparation for application to longer Banff Centre work study/practicum programs.

Participants were also able to combine courses with production opportunities, through a self-directed residency in Media and Visual Arts. After completing a course, artists could work in the Centre’s studios and facilities and put their new skills to immediate use in their work.

The Exploring Multimedia with Macromedia Director course (with instructor Vern Hume) explored the creation of multimedia projects including: concept development, interface design, project management and media preparation. Design and planning were realized while working in Macromedia Director, and each participant had the opportunity to produce a simple prototype project. On completion of this course, each participant possessed an overview of the development and production process for interactive presentations. Prerequisite: Intermediate to advanced Macintosh knowledge, familiarity with Photoshop and Illustrator.