Introduction to Pottery

Get your hands in clay, meet new friends, and share the magic of turning mud into functional objects! The focus of this 8-week introductory class is on learning the basics of wheel-throwing—centering, good posture, the initial steps—all leading to functional pieces after 4-6 weeks (depending on firing schedules and drying time). Students are encouraged to expand their knowledge by looking at other potters’ works, watching videos, visiting galleries and museums when possible. Carol teaches by doing demonstrations, then working hands on with group and individual attention. She returns to demonstrations frequently to reinforce good habits. Class meets October 11, 18, 25, November 1, 8, 15, 29 (no class Thanksgiving week) and December 6.

About the instructor: Carol Herwig has been making pots for 40 years, primarily at Jill Hinckley’s studio in Washington DC, with an emphasis on functional pottery. For the past decade she has taught children at summer camps, as well as teaching adults how to throw on the wheel. Carol is a retired journalist, as well as a certified arborist and a gardener. Carol says, “My classes are open to all levels of potters, with emphasis on working on the wheel. Beginners learn the fundamentals of centering with a road map to making functional, usable pots.“