There’s something about October that stirs the imagination. While the days grow longer, the nights still hold a touch of chill. From rustling leaves to the warm, twilight haze that sets over the city, it’s the perfect setting to celebrate Halloween and lean into the creative expression of the “spooky season”.
At the CAE, our short courses offer more than skill-building. They’re an invitation to tap into your imagination. This season, why not channel your inner storyteller, artist or maker and celebrate the eerie, whimsical and mysterious elements of October through writing, art or even sewing?
Take a look at how our short courses can help you embrace the creativity of Halloween.
Writing: Spin tales that give chills or charm
The spooky season lends itself perfectly to creative storytelling, particularly writing that is wrapped in atmosphere and tension.
Our writing short courses are ideal for beginners and seasoned writers alike. Whether you want to craft an eerie poem, a nail-biting short story or a full-length murder mystery, our expert teachers can help you explore character, plot, suspense and setting.
And because Halloween in Australia isn’t bound by tradition, there’s freedom to add a local twist. You could write about a haunted share house in Fitzroy, a ghost tram running through the city at night, or a hidden door in the State Library that leads to another world.
Art: Illustrate your imagination
Halloween is more than just pumpkin carving and ghoulish costumes. There’s a unique energy that makes it a great muse for art. Think moody landscapes, shadowy figures and pieces with a hint of the supernatural. Use this time to explore darker themes and play with different styles of art.
From drawing and painting to mosaics, our art short courses provide the space and expert guidance to experiment with new techniques and ideas. Learn Ink and Watercolour Art to capture mysterious shadows and textures. Or try Children’s Book Illustration to bring whimsical stories and characters to life.
Remember, “spooky” doesn’t have to mean scary. Think quirky, fantastical and magical – playful interpretations of the season will lead to compelling work.
Fashion, Sewing & Design: Craft with character
Get hands-on with fabric and learn to make your own costumes. Whether it’s for children’s book week or a fancy dress party, there’s something deeply satisfying about customising a costume (or even part of one!) from scratch. With Halloween costumes becoming more commonplace in Australia, it’s time to stitch a little imagination into your projects.
Our Fashion, Sewing & Designing short courses will help you bring costumes to life, at any skill level. Beginners can gain confidence with the basics of a sewing machine, while more experienced crafters can delve into garment construction and pattern modification.
EXPLORE FASHION, SEWING & DESIGNING COURSES
Embrace Halloween as your creative opportunity to explore a new, lifelong skill without bounds. You can shape your spooky season however you like – whether that means writing a story that gives goosebumps, painting a moonlit scene or stitching a playful piece of wearable art.
Discover a new trick and treat yourself to a CAE short course.