Ceramics

The Arts and Crafts Movement and its idealistic philosophy, based on the synthesis of nature, love of craft, and simple living, was the genesis of the Byrdcliffe Colony and remains a living and growing component. The tradition and the future of education is alive and centered at the historic Byrdcliffe Arts Colony. 

About

The tradition and the future of ceramics are alive and centered at the historic Byrdcliffe Barn. Our Ceramics classes take place in the Lower Level of the Byrdcliffe Barn on 485 Upper Byrdcliffe Road, Woodstock, NY.

Beginner and intermediate/ advanced classes are offered in both wheel throwing and handbuilding, and a state-of-the-art kiln is on site.

Intermediate / Advanced Wheel Throwing

Prior experience is required for this class. Continue to hone that particular form you have been trying to master, or search for new expression in your work.

There will be 2-3 demonstrations per week based on student request and instructor recommendations. We will continuously work towards integrating design, form, and texture in the pottery we make.

*All students must have previously taken the All-Levels Class.

All Levels Wheel Throwing

Classes are geared towards individualized instruction, based on your skill level. Learn to work on the potter’s wheel or improve the skills you already possess. In this class you will make cups, bowls, vases, plates, or whatever else you can imagine. Learn techniques for decorating and glazing your creations. Beginners welcome!

Additional Info

Classes

Our Ceramics classes with Byrdcliffe Ceramics Program Director Rich Conti and other guest instructors are offered at the Ceramics studio with morning, afternoon and evening class options.

Classes fill up quickly. If you do not find the PayPal button for the class you are interested in, it is full. Call to add to Waitlist if there are cancellations.

Is your pod looking for a ceramics class? We are happy to offer a group of 4-6 family and friends their own individual ceramics class! Please email Ceramics Program Director Rich Conti directly: ceramics@woodstockguild.org.

Materials fee

includes clay and bisque firing of first box of clay. Extra clay and firings after first box have an additional charge. There are NO REFUNDS for classes within two weeks of start date. If refunds are issued prior to two-weeks of start date, an administrative fee of $25 will be applied.

Firing Fees/ Kiln

The Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild will fire ceramic artists’ creations in the kilns (cone 10 gas reduction and up to cone 6 electric kiln firings) at the Byrdcliffe ceramics studio. Firing fees are $0.04 per cubic inch. To have your work fired, send an email to ceramics@woodstockguild.org.

Studio Rentals

When available, The Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild offers studio spaces in the Byrdcliffe Barn for rent to ceramic artists. For more information, please email ceramics@woodstockguild.org.

Private Lessons

Private lessons are available. Please email inquiries to ceramics@woodstockguild.org for availability and rates.

What tools to bring to class:

Basic pottery tool kit, medium Terry cloth hand towel, an apron is optional but recommended.

Bailey’s Pottery is a great local resource for tools and supplies. Please note that supply chain issues have been experienced. They try their hardest to get your orders filled. Prepare accordingly.

Thanks for your support!

Instructors

Rich Conti

Ceramics artist and Educator

A well-known ceramics artist and educator who has been a teacher and champion for ceramics since the early 1990s. Since 1996, Rich has been the Director of the Ceramics Program at the Byrdcliffe Arts Colony, where he built and equipped the studio, started regular community classes, a ceramic residency program, and private clay studios for the community.

Harry Kunhardt

Ceramics Artist

Harry is largely self-taught pottery who has worked over the past 4 years to establish a pottery in the Catskill Mountains of New York. His interest in the history and geology of the region has lead him to explore the potential of local clay, stone, and wood ash as the basic materials from which his pots can be made.