Refining and Making with Wild Clay: A Journey into Native Arkansas Clay

Dive Deep into the Art of Clay Processing and Pottery Making

Classes begin Wednesday, January 8th, 2025 and will run for 6 class periods. Students access to the studio for this session of classes will end February 16th. 

All Students must fill out a waiver before utilizing the studio. 

Course Overview

Embark on a unique 6-week intermediate pottery adventure that transforms raw, native Arkansas clay into beautiful, handcrafted vessels. This immersive course bridges traditional clay processing techniques with contemporary pottery making, offering students a rare opportunity to connect directly with the earth's raw materials.

Who Should Attend

• Intermediate pottery students
• Those with basic wheel throwing experience (Wheel I or Handbuilding I  recommended)
  

What You'll Learn

• Clay processing techniques
• Slurry and dry sift clay preparation methods
• Making work with native clay
• Natural material glazing techniques
• Surface decoration and finishing methods

Course Highlights

• 6 consecutive weekly sessions
• 2-hour class periods
• Comprehensive clay processing instruction
• Hands-on learning with native Arkansas clay
• Create a complete mini-portfolio of unique pieces

What You'll Create

• Vessels made entirely from processed native clay
• Custom clay stamps and texture tools
• Natural material glazes
• A portfolio showcasing your clay journey

What's Provided 

• All raw clay materials
• All equipment needed for processing (these will stay at the studio, but a recommended list will be provided in class if you wish to purchase your own set)
• Firing services

Instructor

Led by Ben Edwards, an expert in local clay processing and traditional pottery techniques

Practical Details

• Duration: 6 weeks
• Studio Access: Unlimited during course period
• Materials: All essential supplies included

Unlock the secrets of clay processing and elevate your pottery skills with this unique, hands-on course. Limited spots available – reserve your place and transform raw earth into artistic expression!

We look forward to having you in! If you have any questions visit our FAQ here.

All tools and clay are provided for class, but if you wish to have your own tool set you may purchase it here.

Refund Policy 

Class registrations 

Class registrations may be canceled within 48hrs of booking for a refund to to original purchase method. All refunds or credits are subject to a $10 processing fee. 

We offer to make adjustments to your class registration and refund for store credit when you contact us with your request up to 7 days before your registered class date. If the registered class begins in 7 or less days we can no longer make adjustments or offer credit of any kind. All refunds or credits are subject to a $10 processing fee. 

All students are required to accept the following refund policy and safety protocols when registering for a class or workshop:

I understand it is my responsibility to show up to class. I will not be refunded or credited for missed classes. This includes having to quarantine for COVID-19 exposure, travel quarantine or testing positive for COVID-19.

I understand that I must follow all safety protocols and guidelines of Fifth Street Studio. Failing to do so will result in forfeiting your registration fee and removal from your class.

I will make every effort to keep the studio a safe space and clean space.

In the event that your class is cancelled due to circumstances outside of our control (including a city-mandated shutdown), all currently enrolled students will receive a refund in the form of a credit. This credit does not expire and can be applied to any class or workshop in the future.

What class is right for me? 

Wheel I is a six week, true beginner class and requires no previous experience. Wheel I builds a foundation of skills needed to throw pottery as well as introduces basic pottery terminology. 

Wheel II is a six week class that builds on the foundations of Wheel I and introduces new techniques for throwing lager vessels, creating sets and working on consistency. 

Intro to Wheel is a great place to start if you're not sure if you can commit to six weeks of class. We cover the very basic steps to pottery in a fun and approachable environment. 

Classes FAQ

Q- Classes show as sold out, is there a waiting list? 

A- We do not have a waiting list for classes. We send out early access emails to our email newsletter subscribers, signing up for emails is the best way to make sure you snag a spot. If we have a space open unexpectedly we will send out a notification to our email list and registration will be first come first serve.

Q- When will the next classes open for registration?

A- Classes are posted at least 2 weeks in advance of the class start date. Our email list receives an early registration link before classes are posted to the website, so be sure to sign up for our email list via the bottom of our website homepage!

Q- What are the age limits for wheel classes and workshops? 

A- We ask that students are at least 12 years of age unless specified in the class description. Students under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult 21+ years of age.

What membership is right for me? 

Studio Membership is our all access membership. Members have access to wheels, handbuilding equipment, studio glazes, and other tools and resources you need to continue your journey into pottery! Members also have access to our library of resource books and the expertise of our staff. 

Handbuilding Membership gives you access to our handbuilding tables, slab roller, extruder, and studio glazes. If you're not a wheel thrower, this is the perfect way to stay engaged in the community!

Firing and Glazing Membership provides you access to our studio glazes and unlimited firing services. We fire to cone 04 for bisque and cone 6 for glaze. It's perfect for home potters that aren't ready for the commitment of a kiln, but want to stay engaged in the community. 

Drop-off Firing Service is perfect if you're a home pottery that is producing a few items at a time. It's great for a busy schedule that can't commit to a stretch of 6 or 12 weeks, just drop work off as you're able and pay by the pound for firing. We get most items though the kiln in 1-2 weeks.