Description

Unleash your child’s imagination in this fun, hands-on introduction to the world of clay! In this 6-week course, young artists will explore the tactile and rewarding art of ceramics through fundamental hand-building techniques, including pinching, coiling, and slab construction.

Rather than following rigid weekly themes, this dynamic program focuses on building a "ceramic toolkit." Students will learn how to transform raw clay into functional pottery, whimsical sculptures, and unique works of art. By focusing on core skills, the class offers the flexibility to adapt projects to the specific interests, ideas, and passions of the students enrolled. From learning how to join clay securely to exploring colorful glazing techniques, students will experience the entire ceramic process from start to finish.

Perfect for both beginners and returning young potters, this class encourages problem-solving, fine motor development, and creative expression in a supportive studio environment. Come ready to get messy and make something amazing!

Student Learning Objectives

• Master core hand-building techniques: pinch pots, coils, and slabs.
• Understand studio safety, basic ceramic vocabulary, and the "score and slip" method for joining clay.
• Explore surface decoration and glazing techniques to finish pieces.

Develop spatial awareness and three-dimensional problem-solving skills.

Instructor Bio:

Olivia first discovered the transformative joy of pottery in 2024, and it quickly blossomed from a casual interest into a profound passion. The immediate connection she felt to the earth-based medium and the process of creation was captivating, leading her to fall deeply in love with the art form. This passion now drives her studio practice, where she spends countless hours refining her skills.

Her primary focus is on throwing functional pottery, creating pieces like mugs, bowls, and plates designed to be used and cherished every day. While the wheel is her main tool, Olivia also greatly enjoys the tactile freedom of hand building and occasionally crafts a unique, decorative piece that serves purely as art. She is fortunate to be able to share her creations with others by selling her finished work both through her online store and at various local markets.

One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been teaching several pottery classes at the Bower Center, an experience she truly enjoys. What makes pottery so special to Olivia is the deep connection it gives us to the people who came before us, linking her to a craft thousands of years old, as well as its inherent sustainability. Working with simple, natural materials like clay allows her to create beautiful, lasting objects that celebrate both history and our environment.