Looking Ahead: Hopes and Plans for the Studio

A New Chapter…

After eight fulfilling years as a manager and teacher at Fireborn Studios, I’m excited to move forward with my dream of establishing a communal studio space where potters of all ages and experience levels can gather to deepen their appreciation for this wonderful craft.

Early in the new year, I plan to offer a variety of learning opportunities for individuals and groups at my studio in Wilkinsburg. Below you’ll find more information about the building / work space, some scheduling logistics, and further thoughts on what I have to offer Pittsburgh’s vibrant clay community with this new venture.

The Building & Studio Space

My studio is located at 7800 Susquehanna St. in Wilkinsburg—a beautifully renovated 5-story warehouse that serves as “a hub for manufacturing, makers, [and] small businesses.” My studio is on the second floor, Suite 206 (across from Radiant Hall and Jowdy Studio, to name just a few of our awesome neighbors!)

I currently share the space with one other potter, who’s graciously agreed to accommodate this new evolution. There is ample room for a cluster of 8 - 12 wheels, work tables for hand-building and decorating, plus a designated area for glazing and firing. Shelving, tables, and clay storage will line the perimeter. There is a large industrial sink at one end, where I’ll set up a cleaning station with reclaim buckets.

* Accessibility: There is a ramp leading from a spacious, newly-renovated parking lot to the main entrance, with an elevator and stairs just inside. Communal gendered bathrooms are located on each floor of the building.

Classes — Lessons — Future Offerings

Beginning early in the new year (aiming for February 1st), I plan to run several sections of recurring six-week classes for groups of roughly 8 - 12 people. During these sessions, students will have the opportunity to learn a variety of wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques, with an emphasis on creative expression and artistic development. I’ll supply a versatile white stoneware clay and a selection of cone 6 glazes (sourced from Ceramic Supply Pittsburgh) for students to work with. Additional materials, clay bodies, and glazes students might be interested in trying will be welcomed, so long as they’re compatible with the workflow and constraints of the shared space / equipment.

My approach to instruction is student-centered: I’m here to help you achieve your goals, no matter how big or small. With that in mind, I invite you to fill out this questionnaire—your input will help guide my decision-making immensely!

In the meantime, I have immediate availability to schedule private lessons for individuals, couples, and small groups. Click here to learn more.

In the long run I hope to offer even more opportunities: workshops led by visiting artists, open-studio sessions, sales events…there are so many possibilities! If you’d like to receive updates on future classes and events, please fill out this form and I’ll add you to my studio mailing list.