Where to Take Pottery Classes in Atlanta
BEGINNER? Try MUDFIRE�
Should you happen to have no idea as to how to begin, you might want to try one of the workshops at Mudfire. Located on Laredo Drive in trendy Decatur, GA, Mudfire offers several different types of pottery classes in a comfortable and friendly setting. The workshop structure is extremely flexible, catering to an open schedule rather than configured classes. The center encourages people to come during their lunch hours, on breaks, or whenever the urge hits to work with the clay. Beginners may start at any time, and no appointments or reservations are necessary. The studio is closed on Mondays, but remains open until 10pm during the week; Mudfire closes its doors on weekends at 8pm. The art gallery is open from Thursday to Saturday, ensuring that most of the workshop members’ pieces can be seen and/or purchased.
Mudfire is truly the place to go for those who are attempting to get their feet [or hands] wet in a completely different creative genre. The environment is such that experienced artists can find a comfortable place to create, while others are learning. The website describes the experience in terms similar to a gym, wherein members have access to a “personal trainer” to assist them with their needs.
ALL FIRED UP�
There are other studios in the Atlanta area which take the “open session” approach to their ceramics classes. All Fired Up has two general locations in the metro Atlanta area. One is situated at Emory Village. The other is located in Alpharetta. Both studios are available 7 days a week, with the Emory location remaining open until 11pm on the weekends.
They do not subject patrons to hourly rates, instead charging per piece created in the workshop. Unlike typical pottery classes, these workshop focus on the decorating of ceramic pieces which have already been “fired up.” The semantics are rather simple: Patrons choose the actual piece of pottery they would like to design. From there, the paint colors and design is are decided upon. The center provides many different types of examples for those who might need a little creative “boost.” After designing the piece, it is then left at the store to be “fired” and glazed. These processes make the pottery microwave, and dishwasher safe. Days later, the piece can then be picked up.
It’s a fairly simple process. While some creative persons may opt to be involved in the ceramics creation, others are content simply to design their art to their specification. The space is extremely accommodating. Artists visiting All Fired Up are encouraged to bring their own snacks and beverages, including wine or beer. Parties or “Date Night” can be booked for groups of people wishing to experience a different kind of outing. In addition, the entire studio can be rented out for special functions; or for a nominal fee the studio can come to you!
CALLANWOLDE FINE ARTS CENTER�
For a more regimented experience, you might consider Callanwolde’s Fine Arts Center. The center, a beautifully manicured mansion was once the Gothic-Tudor home of Charles Howard Candler, the oldest son of Coca Cola founder, Asa Candler. This organization focuses particularly on all things cultural, and has a rather extensive arts education program. In addition to offering 10-week classes in literary and performing arts, programs also include Adult Pottery Classes. Classes in this field consist of Basic Figure Sculpting, Tile-Making Workshops, Independent Study, and Pottery on the Wheel, amongst others.
Those interested in participating in any of these workshops are required to register at Callanwolde’s Adminstrative office, and may do so all the way up until the first day of classes. What’s more, Callanwolde also exhibits works from individual artists in their gallery. Located on the mansions 2nd floor, the focus is primarily centered around artists which are up-and-coming in the local area.
SPRUILL CENTER FOR THE ARTS�
The Spruill Center for the Arts is yet another great place to sign up for formal ceramics classes. The school, located a bit north of Atlanta off Chamblee Dunwoody Road, is a tad pricier than other options around metro Atlanta. There are four basic types of ceramics workshops available: Handbuilding, Mosaics, Raku, and Wheel. One class in particular, “Assemble and Take Home a ‘Raku Kiln’ ” costs $350 for members, and $370 for non-members [of the center]. However, the class includes all materials needed to assemble the kiln to take home. Tools are provided. And all aspects of the kiln creation are thoroughly discussed. There are workshops which are offered for smaller registration fees. Schedules of classes, and even the tools/materials needed per course tend to vary. Therefore it’s best to contact the center to obtain a complete catalog of course which are offered.
The Spruill Center for the Arts also hosts a gallery of the pieces created by students and members. The gallery itself is actually located a short distance away off of Ashford Dunwoody Road, and has a gift shop as well. The Spruill Center provides very detailed instruction within its courses, and could be considered more for the genuine ceramics student.
Whatever your interest in ceramics, there are various centers and workshops being hosted all over the city. While some are more casual and recreational, others are more structured and focused. Most casual centers make great places to take the whole family. They are also wonderful venues to host theme parties for children. Kids [and adults for that matter] can feel completely free to make a mess and really get into creating. It beats sitting in front of the television, and helps to get the imagination going.
