Think beyond the simple mug or bowl. This class is all about reimagining what a vessel can be. Over four weeks, we'll experiment with transforming traditional pottery forms into expressive, sculptural works that still (mostly) hold function. Students will explore how to create whimsical, character-filled pieces that blur the line between pottery and sculpture.

We’ll build playful teapots, imaginative creature cups, or sculptural vases that merge humor, personality, and craftsmanship. Whether your style leans toward the quirky and fantastical or sleek and architectural, you'll leave this class with one-of-a-kind ceramic creations that feel alive.

No prior clay experience needed, just curiosity and a willingness to take creative risks.

This class takes place at Groundworks HILL at 1010 Aurora Ave., Boulder, CO

This class meets weekly for 4 weeks on WEDNESDAYS.

Class does NOT include additional open lab time or clay. All work must be completed during class time. 

Ages: 16+

Will be available to register on Monday, March 30 at 8:00am.

Great for students that are brand new to the wheel as well as those that are working to improve their throwing skills!

Students will practice wheel-throwing on the potter's wheel as well as create hand-built pieces using the slab roller and extruder. On the final class, students will learn about glazing their pieces. Classes take place at our MAIN location (3750 Canfield St Boulder, CO)

Ages: 8-11

Class meets weekly on WEDNESDAYS

This class is Pay What You Can with a suggest price of $105

Will be available to register on Monday, March 30 at 8:00am.

This class is great for teenagers that are new to the wheel as well as those that are further developing their throwing skills.

Classes will include both hand-building and wheel-throwing, trimming of thrown pots, slip decorating, and glazing of bisqued pieces. These classes are a great chance for students to learn a variety of techniques, ask questions, and play with clay!

Ages: 12-16

Class meets weekly on WEDNESDAYS

This class is Pay What You Can with a suggested price of $120.

Will be available to register on Monday, March 30 at 8:00am.

Level I Hand-building for students wanting to explore the basic techniques for hand-building functional, sculptural, or decorative pieces.

Learn about the various hand-building tools, and the three basic hand-building techniques: pinching, coiling, and slab rolling through a series of self-guided projects.

PLEASE NOTE: This class runs for 3.5 hours, which includes 1 hour of work time at the end of each class period. You will not have access to the studio outside of the scheduled class time. You will also not have access to the Groundworks other locations.

Ages: 16 and above

Class meets weekly on WEDNESDAYS

Does NOT include Firing Fees. For details on our Firing Fees, please click here: https://www.groundworksartlab.org/firing-fees

All pieces will be fired to Cone 6 in an oxydation kiln.

Will be available to register on Monday, March 30 at 8:00am.

For students that have never touched clay to those still learning the basics.

This class will cover the basic “how tos” of pottery. Students will learn the foundations of throwing, including how to confidently center, pull, and trim pots on the wheel. The class will also cover basic glazing techniques, attaching handles, and how to track your pieces through the studio.

PLEASE NOTE: This class runs for 3.5 hours, which includes 1 hour of work time at the end of each class period. You will not have access to the studio outside of the scheduled class time. You will also not have access to the Groundworks other locations.

Ages: 16 and above

Class meets weekly on WEDNESDAYS

Does NOT include Firing Fees. For details on our Firing Fees, please click here: https://www.groundworksartlab.org/firing-fees

All pieces will be fired to Cone 6 in an oxydation kiln.

Will be available to register on Monday, March 30 at 8:00am.

“Totem” stems from the Algonquian meaning “kinship group”

Kinship between the earth (materials- clay and metal) and with one another. In this unique class you will be designing and creating your own totem.  These stacked forms will consist of clay and metal forms.  We suggest you bring in found wire such as copper, brass or steel if you would like to incorporate this kinetic movement into your totem.  

We will look at several examples and have demos on different construction methods (slab, pinch, coil, and ribbon) as well as the surface treatment of your individual beads for your totem.  There also will be an opportunity to make several pieces and exchange pieces with other students to create a different look to your totem, if you so desire.

This class will spend 8 weeks moving between the Metal and Clay Studios, first forming the base and then hand-building clay and blacksmithing metal beads of all shapes and sizes including spacers and totem toppers (birdhouse, birdbath, animal or other forms). This class is beginner-friendly for metal, but some clay hand-building experience is recommended.

Bring your ideas, sketches or images of what you would like to build.  

Please note: we will be building 30"-36" inch totems depending on how tall your topper piece is. 

What to Wear in the Metals Studio?  

You must dress safely and appropriately. Arrive for class in all-natural fiber clothing, long pants, and closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with socks that protect up to the ankle. Long hair must be tied back. Nylon, polyester, spandex, or other synthetics are not allowed around machines, equipment, or processes that can produce hot fragments, sparks, or flames. Layers are encouraged, as the studio can be very cold or very hot. 

Welding students are recommended to wear long sleeve shirts to prevent arc-flash burns. Additional protective gear shall be provided as needed. 

Personal Property:  Personal materials will need to go home with you at the end of each class. We do not provide storage. 

All supplies and materials will be provided, but if you have extra elements you'd like to add, students are encouraged to bring them in. 

This class takes place in the hand building studio and metal shop at Groundworks Art Lab Main at 3750 Canfield Street Boulder 

Age 16+

The class moves fast so students must have some prior hand-building experience. No metal experience necessary. 

**Schedule may shift, but it will be 4 weeks in each studio.

This class will be co-taught by Molly Hoverstock (clay) and Sresht Rengesh (metal). 

Class meets weekly on Wednesdays. 

Students will NOT have access to open lab in the clay studio, but WILL have access to open lab in the metal studio.

Will be available for registration Monday, March 30 at 8:00am

For students that have never touched clay to those still learning the basics.

This class will cover the basic “how tos” of pottery. Students will learn the foundations of throwing, including how to confidently center, pull, and trim pots on the wheel. The class will also cover basic glazing techniques, attaching handles, and how to track your pieces through the studio.

Ages: 16+

Class meets weekly on WEDNESDAY

Note: This class will meet at the MAIN location at 3750 Canfield Street. You will only have open lab access at the same studio as your class.

Does NOT include Firing Fees. For details on our Firing Fees, please click here: https://www.groundworksartlab.org/firing-fees

This class is Pay What You Can with a suggested price of $290

All pieces will be fired to Cone 6 in a reduction kiln.

Will be available to register on Monday, March 30 at 8:00am.

For students that have never touched clay to those still learning the basics.

This class will cover the basic “how tos” of pottery. Students will learn the foundations of throwing, including how to confidently center, pull, and trim pots on the wheel. The class will also cover basic glazing techniques, attaching handles, and how to track your pieces through the studio.

Ages: 16+

Class meets weekly on WEDNESDAYS

Note: This class will meet at the HILL location at 1010 Aurora Ave. You will only have open lab access at the same studio as your class.

Does NOT include Firing Fees. For details on our Firing Fees, please click here: https://www.groundworksartlab.org/firing-fees

All pieces will be fired to Cone 6 in a reduction kiln.

Will be available to register on Monday, March 30 at 8:00am.