Ceramics Classes at Maryland Hall

Our ceramics and pottery program is one of our most thriving education programs. Our expansive studio provides the perfect environment, tools and materials needed to work in clay. Our Teaching Artists take care to offer a robust schedule of classes each semester that include one-time workshops to "just try it" and classes that guide you through all aspects of ceramic art: handbuilding, wheel, glazing and more. There are also open studio opportunities for registered students. Taking a ceramics class with us welcomes you into a supportive community of ceramicists, each on their own clay journey. Classes are offered for children, teens and adults.

This Season's Ceramics Classes

  • Instructor Name
    Pottery Studio Tech MDH
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112,114,116
    Member Price
    $25
    Non-Member Price
    $50

    Pottery Open Studio is for students who wish to practice their craft outside of class times when the studio tech is in attendance. Studio hours are open only to currently registered students in the same season and end with the last date of class the student is registered in.Hours: Monday 5:00 - 8:00 PM. For information:education@mdhallarts.org

  • Instructor Name
    Pottery Studio Tech MDH
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112,114,116
    Member Price
    $45
    Non-Member Price
    $70

    Pottery Open Studio is for students who wish to practice their craft outside of class times when the studio tech is in attendance. Studio hours are open only to currently registered students in the same season and end with the last date of class.Hours included: Monday 5:00 - 8:00 PM, Wednesday 1:00 - 3:00 PM and Saturday 1:00 - 3:30 PM. Materials fee may be charged. For informatio contact education@mdhallarts.org

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Member Price
    $280
    Non-Member Price
    $305

    Hand-building is an ancient pottery-making technique that involves creating forms without a pottery wheel, using only your hands, fingers, and simple tools. This 7 week class is designed for both the beginner and returning beginner student who would like to explore or strengthen their skills using the slab technique of hand-building. The student will discover how to create the basic clay forms (cups, plates, bowls and platters). To enhance the beauty of the simple slab, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Glazing applications will also explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check payable to the Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first day of class. For more information, please contact the instructor Laura Switkes at lswitkes@mac.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $280
    Non-Member Price
    $305

    Before potters had the wheel, they were creating beautiful pots and clay forms using clay, their hands their fingers, and basic hand tools . This 7 week class is designed for the Intermediate to advanced student, who would like to explore a broad variety of hand building techniques. To enhance the beauty of the hand built piece, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Decorative slips and glazing applications will also be explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check

  • Instructor Name
    Pottery Studio Tech MDH
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112,114,116
    Member Price
    $25
    Non-Member Price
    $50

    Pottery Open Studio is for students who wish to practice their craft outside of class times when the studio tech is in attendance. Studio hours are open only to currently registered students in the same season and end with the last date of class the student is registered in.Hours: Wednesday 1:00 - 3:30 PM. For information:education@mdhallarts.org

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $280
    Non-Member Price
    $305

    Hand-building is an ancient pottery-making technique that involves creating forms without a pottery wheel, using only your hands, fingers, and simple tools. This 7 week class is designed for both the beginner and returning beginner student who would like to explore or strengthen their skills using the slab technique of hand-building. The student will discover how to create the basic clay forms (cups, plates, bowls and platters). To enhance the beauty of the simple slab, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Glazing applications will also explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check payable to the Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first day of class. For more information, please contact the instructor Laura Switkes at lswitkes@mac.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $280
    Non-Member Price
    $305

    Before potters had the wheel, they were creating beautiful pots and clay forms using clay, their hands their fingers, and basic hand tools . This 7 week class is designed for the Intermediate to advanced student, who would like to explore a broad variety of hand building techniques. To enhance the beauty of the hand built piece, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Decorative slips and glazing applications will also be explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check payable to the Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first day of class. For more information, please contact the instructor Laura Switkes at lswitkes@mac.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $280
    Non-Member Price
    $305

    Before potters had the wheel, they were creating beautiful pots and clay forms using clay, their hands their fingers, and basic hand tools . This 7 week class is designed for the Intermediate to advanced student, who would like to explore a broad variety of hand building techniques. To enhance the beauty of the hand built piece, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Decorative slips and glazing applications will also be explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check payable to the Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first day of class. For more information, please contact the instructor Laura Switkes at lswitkes@mac.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Pottery Studio Tech MDH
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112,114,116
    Member Price
    $25
    Non-Member Price
    $50

    Pottery Open Studio is for students who wish to practice their craft outside of class times when the studio tech is in attendance. Studio hours are open only to currently registered students in the same season and end with the last date of class the student is registered in.Hours: Saturday 1:00 - 3:30 PM. For information:education@mdhallarts.org

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $280
    Non-Member Price
    $305

    In this class students will advance their knowledge of wheel throwing to create more complex forms such as teapots, platters, pitchers, and lidded forms. We will also discuss aesthetic details regarding rims, feet, handle, proportions, weight, etc. Bring an old small towel, a sketch book and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $280
    Non-Member Price
    $305

    This class is suited for those with a little experience. Students should be able to throw a small cylinder and a small bowl. In this class, we will work towards refining our throwing skills to make lighter, better-centered pots. We will explore more complex forms including lidded pieces and pouring pots and work on details like rims, feet, handles, etc. Bring an old towel, a sketchbook and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to the Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    In this class students will advance their knowledge of wheel throwing to create more complex forms such as teapots, platters, pitchers, and lidded forms. We will also discuss aesthetic details regarding rims, feet, handles ,proportions, weight, etc. Bring an old small towel, a sketch book and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class. No class on 5/13. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    This class meets for 6 weeks and provides an introduction to the potter’s wheel. Students will learn basic techniques of centering clay, throwing simple forms and transforming these into more developed forms, such as vases, bowls and mugs. Glazing and decorating techniques are also introduced. Additional Pottery Studio practice time is highly recommended - refer to Pottery Studio times and dates. Bring an old towel, a sketch book and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to the Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class, which will cover the first 25lbs of clay and glazes. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    This class provides an introduction to the potter’s wheel. Students will learn basic techniques of centering clay, throwing simple forms and transforming these into more developed forms, such as vases, bowls and mugs. Glazing and decorating techniques are also introduced. Class is suited for beginner students and those with a little experience. Bring an old towel, a sketch book and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to the Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $110
    Non-Member Price
    $135

    Always thought that it looked like fun to throw on the potter’s wheel? Here’s your chance to just try it, a two-time session giving the wheel a spin. You get a quick introduction to wheel throwing …then you try it. We supply materials and tools, basic instruction and hands-on assistance. At the end you choose two to three pieces to be fired . On the second class we will talk about different glazing and decoration techniques and you will have a chance to glaze your pieces. Your finished pots can be picked up a couple weeks later. This is a great class for the curious or those who just want to check pottery off the bucket list! No experience required. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting messy and bring an old towel. Materials fee of $5 is due in class. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $110
    Non-Member Price
    $135

    Always thought that it looked like fun to throw on the potter’s wheel? Here’s your chance to just try it, a two-time session giving the wheel a spin. You get a quick introduction to wheel throwing …then you try it. We supply materials and tools, basic instruction and hands-on assistance. At the end you choose two to three pieces to be fired . On the second class we will talk about different glazing and decoration techniques and you will have a chance to glaze your pieces. Your finished pots can be picked up a couple weeks later. This is a great class for the curious or those who just want to check pottery off the bucket list! No experience required. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting messy and bring an old towel. Materials fee of $5 is due in class. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $110
    Non-Member Price
    $135

    Bring your surfaces to life creating multi layered patterns that add depth and interest to your pieces! We will explore the use of paper cutouts , slip decoration, carving, underglazes, newsprint transfers, slip trailing, inlay, and more. 6 x 6 leather hard tiles will be provided to practice all techniques. Students wil be able to complete 2 to 3 tiles. This workshop is designed for students with basic skills. A materials fee of $15 to Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first class. For more information, please contact the instructor @ renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    This class provides an introduction to the potter’s wheel. Students will learn basic techniques of centering clay, throwing simple forms and transforming these into more developed forms, such as vases, bowls and mugs. Glazing and decorating techniques are also introduced. Class is suited for beginner students and those with a little experience. Bring an old towel, a sketch book and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to the Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class. No class on 7/4 or 7/18. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    Hand-building is an ancient pottery-making technique that involves creating forms without a pottery wheel, using only your hands, fingers, and simple tools. This 6 week class is designed for both the beginner and returning beginner student who would like to explore or strengthen their skills using the slab technique of hand-building. The student will discover how to create the basic clay forms (cups, plates, bowls and platters). To enhance the beauty of the simple slab, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Glazing applications will also explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check payable to the Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first day of class. For more information, please contact the instructor Laura Switkes at lswitkes@mac.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    Before potters had the wheel, they were creating beautiful pots and clay forms using clay, their hands their fingers, and basic hand tools . This 6 week class is designed for the Intermediate to advanced student, who would like to explore a broad variety of hand building techniques. To enhance the beauty of the hand built piece, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Decorative slips and glazing applications will also be explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check payable to the Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first day of class. For more information, please contact the instructor Laura Switkes at lswitkes@mac.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    Hand-building is an ancient pottery-making technique that involves creating forms without a pottery wheel, using only your hands, fingers, and simple tools. This 6 week class is designed for both the beginner and returning beginner student who would like to explore or strengthen their skills using the slab technique of hand-building. The student will discover how to create the basic clay forms (cups, plates, bowls and platters). To enhance the beauty of the simple slab, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Glazing applications will also explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check payable to the Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first day of class. For more information, please contact the instructor Laura Switkes at lswitkes@mac.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Laura Switkes
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    Before potters had the wheel, they were creating beautiful pots and clay forms using clay, their hands their fingers, and basic hand tools . This 6 week class is designed for the Intermediate to advanced student, who would like to explore a broad variety of hand building techniques. To enhance the beauty of the hand built piece, different texturing techniques will be introduced. Decorative slips and glazing applications will also be explored. A materials fee of $30 cash or check payable to the Maryland Hall Pottery is due on the first day of class. For more information, please contact the instructor Laura Switkes at lswitkes@mac.com.no class 7/4/23

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    In this class students will advance their knowledge of wheel throwing to create more complex forms such as teapots, platters, pitchers, and lidded forms. We will also discuss aesthetic details regarding rims, feet, handle, proportions, weight, etc. Bring an old small towel, a sketch book and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    In this class students will learn basic techniques of centering clay, throwing simple forms and transforming these into more developed forms, such as vases, bowls and mugs.We will also be experimenting with surface decoration techniques including carving, slip trailing, sgrafitto, inlay,etc. This class is suited for those with little or no experience on the wheel. Bring and old towel, a sketch book and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to the Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class. No class on 7/19/23.For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $240
    Non-Member Price
    $265

    In this class students will advance their knowledge of wheel throwing to create more complex forms such as teapots, platters, pitchers, and lidded forms. We will also discuss aesthetic details regarding rims, feet, handle, proportions, weight, etc. Bring an old small towel, a sketch book and lots of ideas. A materials fee of $30 is due to Maryland Hall Pottery at the first class. No class on 7/19/23. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com.

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $110
    Non-Member Price
    $135

    "Always thought that it looked like fun to throw on the potter’s wheel? Here’s your chance to just try it, a two-time session giving the wheel a spin. You get a quick introduction to wheel throwing …then you try it. We supply materials and tools, basic instruction and hands-on assistance. At the end you choose two to three pieces to be fired . On the second class we will talk about different glazing and decoration techniques and you will have a chance to glaze your pieces. Your finished pots can be picked up a couple weeks later. This is a great class for the curious or those who just want to check pottery off the bucket list! No experience required. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting messy and bring an old towel. Materials fee of $5 is due in class. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com. "

  • Instructor Name
    Renata Mastroti Kunkel
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $110
    Non-Member Price
    $135

    "Always thought that it looked like fun to throw on the potter’s wheel? Here’s your chance to just try it, a two-time session giving the wheel a spin. You get a quick introduction to wheel throwing …then you try it. We supply materials and tools, basic instruction and hands-on assistance. At the end you choose two to three pieces to be fired . On the second class we will talk about different glazing and decoration techniques and you will have a chance to glaze your pieces. Your finished pots can be picked up a couple weeks later. This is a great class for the curious or those who just want to check pottery off the bucket list! No experience required. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting messy and bring an old towel. Materials fee of $5 is due in class. For more information, please contact the intstructor at renata@rmastrotipottery.com. "

  • Instructor Name
    Shannon McArdle
    Ages
    16+
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $220
    Non-Member Price
    $245

    Find yourself at the pottery wheel this summer! This course is for individuals with little or no experience with clay. Students will learn the beautiful and challenging nature of the ancient craft of throwing clay. We will l work on technique to create simple, foundational forms like cups and bowls. We’ll learn about form and surface design, and how to express yourself through clay. You will create your own pieces from start to finish, and learn all about the magic of what happens to clay when fired and glazed. Students should bring a towel and sketchbook - wear clothes that can get a little dirt on them and tie long hair back. A $30 studio fee is due during the first class, which will cover the first 25lbs of clay and glazes. Contact Shannon with any questions:chefchanc@gmail.com

  • Instructor Name
    Shannon McArdle
    Ages
    13-16
    Room Number
    112
    Member Price
    $180
    Non-Member Price
    $205

    In this course, students will gain experience using the pottery wheel to create a variety of functional pottery forms including bowls, cups and mugs and vase forms. Come prepared to get messy! Please bring a snack and a drink to class. A materials fee of $20 is due to the instructor at the first class. For more information, please contact the instructor at chefchanc@gmail.com

  • Instructor Name
    Shannon McArdle
    Ages
    10-12 years
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $135
    Non-Member Price
    $160

    In this fun summer camp, young sculptors will explore Maryland's ecosystems using clay. Students will explore animals, water systems and marine life that make the Chesapeake Bay a special place to live and explore! Please bring a snack and a drink to class. A materials fee of $20 is due to the instructor at the first class. For more information, please contact the instructor at chefchanc@gmail.com

  • Instructor Name
    Shannon McArdle
    Ages
    6-9 years
    Room Number
    116
    Member Price
    $135
    Non-Member Price
    $160

    In this fun summer camp, young sculptors will explore Maryland's ecosystems using clay. Students will explore animals, water systems and marine life that make the Chesapeake Bay a special place to live and explore! Please bring a snack and a drink to class. A materials fee of $20 is due to the instructor at the first class. For more information, please contact the instructor at chefchanc@gmail.com

Work by Renata Mastroti Kunkel