Instructor: Whitney Smith

Cost: $325

Hands in Clay is a 6 week course designed to give the beginner or almost beginner a chance to explore the possibilities of clay through working with soft and stiff slabs. Students will learn  about clay properties and character through a set of guided projects while also being left to play and explore on their own. Projects will include designing and creating functional cups, vases, and tabletop wares including bowls and plates. Emphasis will be placed on form and function-- making pots that can be enjoyed and used in everyday life.

Every student will be allocated a certain amount of free firing space in the kiln for the course. Extra firing space may be made available for an additional fee.

A 25 pound bag of clay will be given to each student. Extra bags of clay will be made available for purchase. Students may only use clay that is obtained or purchased at the studio. Basic tools will also be provided, and feel free to bring your favorites.

Class will begin at 6 but students may come in an hour early for self-guided open studio time. Students may also arrange for open studio time during the evening and weekend hours

Class is open to people 16 years and up.

About the instructor:

Whitney Smith was bitten by the clay bug in 1993 and never fully recovered. She is the owner of Whitney Smith Pottery and Vallejo Clay Workshop and has been making pottery for a living for over 20 years. Her work has been featured in galleries and publications worldwide. She makes her work in beautiful downtown Vallejo.