I was walking along Magazine Street and saw the flier for their pottery classes. Pottery is something I've often been curious about - didn't know if I'd have an aptitude for it or not, but you don't know if you don't try it, right? I signed up for it. It was in the $240.00 range. The owner, Martin (very nice guy) explained that the classes were done "one-room school house style" with different skill levels all working together. The price included a 6 classes, use of the studio and all materials - clay, tools and all. So I signed up.
I was a little nervous about being with people who have been together for awhile but that insecurity was cast aside as soon as I met a very nice, welcoming, helpful, supportive group of people who took in a newbie with no sense of clique. The teacher was one of the nicest people and I liked her a lot. However...she was a much better demonstrator than she was a teacher. She showed me what to do, but I didn't feel like I was being taught. When my clumsiness got me into a rut she would say "Here, let me do it for you." Well, that's not really teaching. Eventually, her answer to my questions became "Go to YouTube and you'll find lots of videos." I could have done that and saved the 240 bucks.
When it came time to glaze the pieces I was shown how to do it, but I came away from 6 classes knowing very little to speak of about glazes and nothing at all about underglazing. I felt more like it was "Make Your Own Pottery" thing than a "Learn How To Do This" thing and, trust me, I don't need a cabinet full of bowls and coffee cups.
The other thing is, there were projects begun toward the end of the 6 week session with not enough time to compleat them. This means having to spend another 240 dollars for another class to finish the projects I'd started in the first session. I think there should a cut off for making new stuff so that they can be fired and glazed and everything all completed at the end of 6 weeks. I felt like it was a deliberate cliff hanger to make me want to come back and spend more money. So, I just abandoned them and I suppose they'll do with them as they will.
This sounds like a VERY negative review and I don't mean it to be. Let me say this - if your object is to make pottery (or have potter made that you somewhat had your hands in) this is perfect for you. The people are extremely nice and the environment is positive and welcoming. But if what you want is to actually learn the craft, you're best going to a community college or adult education class or you'll be teaching yourself with YouTube videos. read more