Clay and Ceramics

The clay studio faculty offers students expert instruction in a well-equipped, supportive work environment that rivals larger institutions. A vessel-building orientation provides instruction in hand-building and throwing skills, focusing on experimentation with materials, knowledge of glazes and the exploration of firing techniques leading to the development of one's aesthetic "clay voice."

Consistency, commitment, and hard work for nearly thirty years has resulted in a studio providing professional experiences in the open classroom of a small rural setting rich in naturally occurring clay materials. One-on-one contact with dedicated professors provides immediate feedback on process, technique, materials and aesthetics.

Students experience a well-designed program steeped in history and independent decision-making through course studies involving all types of firing processes: sawdust, dung firing, pit firing, raku, cone ten reduction firing, salt and wood firing.

Independent, creative exploration of process and risk-taking enables a student to grow and choose personal, real-world goals as a serious clay artist. Exposure to the lifestyle for the working potter through workshops with nationally and internationally known clay artists validates the student's place within the contemporary clay-arts community.