Hi friends!
It’s been nearly 4 months since I was in the pottery studio. Throughout the process of our relocation I’ve been actively eyeballing new studios. Let me tell you first-hand…wow the Seattle pottery scene is really poppin’ off! With the being said, there are quite a few considerations to take into account when scoping out potential studios.
Something to note - some of these notes are posed as questions. Like so many different mediums, creating pottery is truly up to the maker and their preferences. This may vary due to local, accessibility, and/or so many other variables. These are just things I’ve been keeping in mind.
Instruction: Is this your first pottery class or are you a seasoned potter? How much guidance are you expecting from an instructor? Do you want or need an instructor? Over the past two years I’ve learned from a handful of different instruction styles. Some teachers are more hands-on and are attentively by your side throughout most of the class; others may demo a bit, casually answer questions while you work, pop in to offer advice a bit. You’re going to want to think about your own personal learning style. You may be entirely self sufficient and not need instruction so becoming a renter or finding a place with open studio hours might be your jam.
Affordability: How much are you willing to pay? One of my biggest issues with the arts in general is the lack of financial accessibility. During my time in Worcester, MA I’ve seen 6-week classes running around $200 while also incurring additional costs for tools and clay. If you are taking classes some studios may give you the option for additional studio time outside of class. After spending several hundred dollars on two 6-week classes I had NO IDEA I could pay a one-time fee (a mere $35) and drop in to EVERY OPEN STUDIO during those 6 weeks. This is the best time to continue to keep practicing those skills, finish pieces from weekly class, or just got in and chat with other potters.
Location: Where is the studio in relation to where you work or live? Is it convenient to get to? Personally, I wouldn't want to drive, walk, or bike out of the way. Am I spoiled in saying that my most recent studio was a whopping 5 minute drive from my last apartment? Probably, but that was a priority to me when I was commuting a significant distance to work. Location may not matter as much to you if it’s near a location you frequent or the cost of class is too good to pass up.
Access: How do you access the studio? Are classes at a certain time? Does the studio close frequently? I've worked out of studios attached to colleges, when the college closes due to inclement weather the studio often closed as well. Do you have particular accessibility needs and if so, can the studio meet them? Older studios may not meet ADA requirements. If that applies to you, it’s worth inquiring before registering for classes.
Membership: How many members are in the studio? Well reputed studios often have high enrollment. Did I say high enrollment? I mean THROUGH THE ROOF, WAITLISTED FOREVER, high enrollment. Classes may be hard to get into as class space may be limited. This can apply to open studio as well. See if you can get on a list. I’ve gone as far as setting reminders and timers to ensure I’m on the website BEFORE they open quarterly enrollment. Bonus points if the website for enrollment cannot handle the traffic and you pull your hair out in frustration while on your lunch break. Welcome to the party, you’re a part of the cool kids club now.
Materials & Firings: This may be a bit *extra* - I’ve been accused of being a bit extra. But you should consider the materials and firing. If you’re just starting out you likely don’t have a preference or know what the heck I’m talking about. Some questions may come into play later like…Which cone do you fire to? What kind of kiln?
What you really should know before enrolling in your very first class is how you go about purchasing clay. Some studios will allow you to bring your own. Some will require you to purchase theirs. Some might even supply for free! Some studios are very particular about which type of clay comes into the studio. Glaze is often provided but you can worry about that after a few classes in.
OKAY SO, how are you holding up? Are you still there? Did that make your head spin? Did I lose you with the cones, the kilns, and the open studio? We’ll cover some basic lingo soon, I PROMISE! But I hope I helped empower you to ask the questions, pervey the websites and course descriptions, and reach out to instructors or registrars.
Most importantly… MAKE ART AND HAVE FUN!
Much love,
Mabardy