Beginner Ceramics Class with Phillip Strauss | 4 Week Class

Designed for students with little or no prior experience, this class introduces the essential techniques used by ceramic artists every day. You'll learn how to center clay, pull walls, trim forms, and create functional pieces such as bowls, cups, and small vessels. Along the way, you'll gain a deeper understanding of clay as a material, including how it is recycled and reclaimed within a working studio.

As your confidence grows, you'll explore glazing techniques that bring color, surface, and personality to your work. By the end of the course, you'll leave with several finished ceramic pieces and the skills needed to continue working independently in a community ceramics studio.

What to expect:

Classes combine demonstrations, hands-on practice, and individualized instruction in The Art Center's public ceramics studio. You'll work alongside fellow students, learn proper studio practices, and discover why wheel throwing is equal parts craft, concentration, and creative play. Be prepared to get a little messy—it's part of the fun.

What to bring:

The studio provides shared tools, but having your own basic kit ensures you'll always have what you need during class.

Required Tools:

• Throwing sponge
• Wooden rib
• Rubber rib
• Needle tool
• Wire cutter
• Trimming tools

A beginner pottery tool kit is available for purchase through The Art Center and includes most of these essential tools.