Best Ceramics Classes In Minnesota
For thousands of years, humans have been getting their hands dirty creating beautiful things out of clay. Ceramics can be created for art or for function; something for decoration or mugs for coffee. You'll be able to create whatever you like using the list below as your guide, and while you might not be recreating the famous scene from "Ghost" in these classes, you will walk away with some pretty cool creations, and even cooler new skills.
Northern Clay Center
2424 Franklin Ave E
Minneapolis, MN 55406
(612) 339-8007
www.northernclaycenter.org
There is always something new to learn at this artists' mecca. Intensive classes teach the art of wheel-throwing and sculpture, or you can get to know just the basics of ceramics and handmade pottery. There are classes offered for beginners, especially good for just jumping right in and getting your hands dirty, or classes to expand skills you've already gained. Many potters from the Twin Cities and beyond have used these courses as a starting point, so if you're serious about the craft, this is the place to go.
Anjee Mai Creations
1500 Jackson St NE, Suite 151
Minneapolis, MN 55413
(612) 888-4252
www.anjeemaicreations.com
Ceramics is certainly not just for adults. What kid wouldn't want to dive into a big pile of clay to create a monster, fairy, mermaid, dinosaur or other mythical or magical creature? Anjee Mai's classes allow you to do exactly that. You can book group classes and plan a party for your youngsters (or girl scout or boy scout troop which can result in badges) or sign up for private classes for some one-on-one work. Added bonus: for a fee, you can take those private classes at your own home.
Minnetonka Center For The Arts
2240 N Shore Drive
Wayzata, MN 55391
(952) 473-7361
www.minnetonkaarts.org
No matter what your schedule looks like, you should be able to find a class that works for you. Daytime or evening classes are available in a variety of different subjects. Whether you're Interested in stoneware and porcelain, or maybe sculpture, garden totems, or just beginning with pottery, you'll be set. These are classes that will teach you not only the function of creating pottery, but also teaches the importance of aesthetics and artistry while you hone your creative process.
Related: Best Kids Art Classes In Minnesota
Caulfield Clay Works
2242 University Ave W
St Paul, MN 55114
(651) 303-3628
www.caufieldclay.com
Classes here are great for beginners, but with plenty of new ideas and techniques for those who have already worked with clay as well. Located just off the Green Line in the Creative Enterprise Zone, you come here for a more personal connection to your class and work. You do the creating, and when you're finished the staff will glaze and fire up your work, ready to be picked up eight hours later. Keep an eye out for Groupon specials as well.
Fired Up Studios
1701 Hennepin Ave E, Suite 255
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 852-2287
www.firedupstudios.com
Classes are broken up into three sections: Beginning Pottery, Intermediate Pottery and Clay Date. The first two are fairly self-explanatory, and you know your skill level best. Clay Date is a fun, two-hour class perfect for couples, friends or anyone you might want to throw a pot with, without committing to the six to eight-week courses. The idea here is to allow you to create something you're proud of, that you can hold in your hands and take home with you, and to simply try something new. Keep track of classes and class times using the website above.
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.
