NEW! Traditional Hand-Building and Surface Decoration with Toni Billick | 11a–2p | 10 Week Series, Saturdays: August 29, September 5, 12, 19, 26 and October 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31

This class introduces students to ceramic hand-building through coiling and slab techniques. By combining these skills, students will construct forms ranging from containers to sculpture. They will also explore surface treatment and underglazing methods that enhance and complement their work. All materials provided; all skill levels welcome. Wheel-throwing students who are interested in enhancing their surface work are encouraged to join.

Member $175 | $210 8 seats available

NEW! Fundamentals of Slab Building with Susan Mentrak | 2–4p | 12 Fridays: September 4-25; October 2-30; November 6, 27 & December 4 *No class 11/13 or 11/20

Discover the unlimited possibilities of clay, perfect for beginners and advanced makers alike, as you practice handbuilding fundamentals through engaging, instructor-led demonstrations and set parameters.This course is defined by fun, creativity, and challenging yourself to tackle three distinct prompts: press plates exploring rich texture and surface decoration, a bowl to personalize through altering or sculpting, and an unconventional butter dish balancing function with inventiveness. Without ever needing a wheel, students will discover how slab construction techniques can be used to create beautiful pottery. Come expand your technical boundaries and express your unique style in a supportive, inspiring environment! Ages 16+

Member $218 | $261 8 seats available Important Information for All Ceramics Students

Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.

Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.

Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.

Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.

Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kiln’s capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.

Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.

Introduction to Watercolor Painting for Beginners with Sally Lu McAfee | 2–4p | 6 Fridays, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and November 6

This six-week introductory watercolor course is designed for beginners who are interested in learning the fundamentals of watercolor painting in a relaxed, encouraging environment. Students will explore essential watercolor techniques, color theory, brush control, and composition while completing a series of small paintings that build confidence and technical skill. The course emphasizes experimentation and understanding the unique qualities of watercolor. Through demonstrations, guided exercises, and individual instruction, students will develop a strong foundation that prepares them for more advanced watercolor subjects such as landscapes, botanicals, wildlife, and portraits. No previous painting experience is required. Some drawing familiarity is helpful but not required. All materials provided; all skill levels welcome. Ages 16+

Member $149 | $179 8 seats available

NEW! Introduction to Watercolor Portraiture with Sally Lu McAfee | 2–4p | 6 Sundays, October 4, 11, 18, 25 and November 1 & 8

This six-week watercolor portrait course is designed to introduce students to the foundational skills needed to confidently create expressive and realistic watercolor portraits. Throughout the course, students will learn how to accurately sketch facial proportions, understand light and value, develop watercolor layering techniques, and build confidence in painting facial features. The primary goal is for each student to complete one finished watercolor portrait by the end of the session. Students who progress more quickly are welcome to begin additional portraits (up to three total), though emphasis will remain on craftsmanship and understanding rather than

Speed. Each class will begin with a live demonstration followed by guided instruction and individualized feedback, allowing students to learn techniques while working at their own pace. Some previous watercolor painting experience and drawing familiarity is required. All materials provided. Ages 16+

Member $149 | $179 8 seats available

Beginner Wheel Throwing Series with Echo Iris Davis | 1–4p | 10 Wednesdays: October 7–December 16 (excluding November 25)

Students are not required to have pre-existing wheel throwing experience in this structured 10-week, small-group ceramics course. With the support of demonstrations and constructive feedback from the instructor, students will focus on form and function while creating functional ware like cups and bowls. Students will also be introduced to surface design techniques and beginner glaze application. This class is a precursor to a more advanced wheel throwing class. Ages 16+

Member $225 | $280 7 seats available

Important Information for All Ceramics Students Clay Policy: All ceramics students at CMA are strictly required to purchase and use approved clay directly from the museum, with absolutely no exceptions. Because different clay bodies fire at varying temperatures, they cannot be reconstituted or mixed together. During check-in at the front desk on the first day of class, 25 lbs of clay can be purchased for $54. Although more clay can be bought afterward, there is a strict limit of 50 lbs of clay per session to manage the volume of student work produced.

Hours & Availability: Open studio time runs concurrently with the museum's seasonal class schedule. Access is limited to the dates listed above; studio time is unavailable outside these dates or when classes are not in session.

Tools: While students at CMA are welcome to bring and use their own clay tools, tool kits are also available for purchase starting on the first day of class for $15, while supplies last throughout each session.

Usage Restrictions: Our studio is a teaching facility designed for developing personal artistic style and technique; it is not a production lab for mass-market goods. Therefore, kiln use is strictly reserved for supporting your personal creative practice, and the production of items for commercial sale or mass distribution is prohibited.

Size Limitations: Please consult with your instructor regarding size restrictions. Because our kiln capacity is limited, we must prioritize efficient loading to serve all students. Oversized pieces take up disproportionate space and can crowd out work from others, disrupting our firing queue. By keeping projects within recommended dimensions, you help us maximize our kiln’s capacity, ensure efficient firing cycles, and provide timely results for the entire class.

Canton Ceramic Artists Guild (CCAG): The CCAG affiliate group partners with the Education Director and the Ceramics Studio Production Manager to maintain our studio environment. Members provide instruction, oversee studio assistants via a volunteer technician, and curate our glaze inventory using raw chemical supplies. In exchange for firing privileges and dedicated open studio time, CCAG members assist with operations and participate in annual museum events, where they sell their wares and educate the community on the art of ceramics.