What we’re about
Established in 2002, the Royal Academy of Illustration & Design (aka RAID - it sounds serious, but we're not so serious) has been a longstanding hub for creatives in the Toronto, Ontario area. What began as a shared workspace of four friends has evolved into a co-working space for creatives, including artists, writers, designers, and more. With our new public-facing space, we are excited to start introducing various events to connect and educate our growing community—and, most importantly, to have fun.
Events will include new exhibit openings, hosted speakers, readings, life drawing, and more. Please join us and meet like-minded creative individuals.
Featured event
RAID Halloween Costume Drawing Night with Miss Ivie
Leave your usual sketchbook routine behind, this session leans into theatrical setups, mood, and character. Draped fabrics, sharp lighting, eerie details. No cheesy costumes, just stripped-down elements that suggest story and style.
Expect a mix of short to medium poses, inspired by Roman myths, baroque drama, ghost stories, and cabaret silhouettes It’s all about capturing attitude, shape, and atmosphere.
🎨 FEATURE MODEL: MISS IVIE
A limitless source of costumes, creativity, and atmosphere, Miss Ivie has long been one of our most inspiring life drawing models. And this Halloween, she’s the perfect choice to bring all the spooky vibes to life!
A RAID favourite. Her poses and costume choices are literally to die for — theatrical, fearless, and always unforgettable.
- We provide paper, charcoal, and a backing boards.
- Bring your own supplies if you prefer a canvas, pastels, or other materials.
Doors open at 6:45 PM. Reserve your spot early to secure the discounted early-bird rate — sessions tend to fill up quickly.
Note: All sketches created during RAID Life Drawing remain the property of the artists. By joining our sessions, you agree that RAID may occasionally share images of artwork (with proper credit) to promote future events.
📸 Miss Ivie’s photo: Derek Lewis
Upcoming events
2
- CA$30.00
RAID Halloween Costume Drawing Night with Miss Ivie
RAID Gallery & Cafe, 1720 Queen St W, Toronto, ON, CALeave your usual sketchbook routine behind, this session leans into theatrical setups, mood, and character. Draped fabrics, sharp lighting, eerie details. No cheesy costumes, just stripped-down elements that suggest story and style.
Expect a mix of short to medium poses, inspired by Roman myths, baroque drama, ghost stories, and cabaret silhouettes It’s all about capturing attitude, shape, and atmosphere.🎨 FEATURE MODEL: MISS IVIE
A limitless source of costumes, creativity, and atmosphere, Miss Ivie has long been one of our most inspiring life drawing models. And this Halloween, she’s the perfect choice to bring all the spooky vibes to life!A RAID favourite. Her poses and costume choices are literally to die for — theatrical, fearless, and always unforgettable.
- We provide paper, charcoal, and a backing boards.
- Bring your own supplies if you prefer a canvas, pastels, or other materials.
Doors open at 6:45 PM. Reserve your spot early to secure the discounted early-bird rate — sessions tend to fill up quickly.
Note: All sketches created during RAID Life Drawing remain the property of the artists. By joining our sessions, you agree that RAID may occasionally share images of artwork (with proper credit) to promote future events.
📸 Miss Ivie’s photo: Derek Lewis5 attendees - CA$30.00
RAID Sustained Pose Night
RAID Gallery & Cafe, 1720 Queen St W, Toronto, ON, CAThis Life Drawing session invites you to slow down, refine your eye, and deepen your focus — welcome to our second Sustained Pose Night.
This long-pose session emphasizes patience, observation, and detail. Expect extended poses designed to let you explore structure, subtlety, and atmosphere.
🎨 FEATURING: Carly Lundy
Model Carly brings grace, presence, and strength to the studio.Perfect for artists looking to sharpen technique, develop anatomy skills, and capture nuance.
- We provide paper, charcoal, and a backing boards.
- Bring your own supplies if you prefer a canvas, pastels, or other materials.
Doors open at 6:45 PM. Reserve your spot early to secure the discounted early-bird rate — sessions tend to fill up quickly.
Note: All sketches created during RAID Life Drawing remain the property of the artists. By joining our sessions, you agree that RAID may occasionally share images of artwork (with proper credit) to promote future events.
📸 Carly’s photo: @dart.srl
1 attendee
Past events
30
