Clayful Creations: Students Mold Learning into Fun

Do you have some inner creativity just waiting to be unleashed? Are you looking for a new hobby or creative outlet?

Consider an art class at Cleveland Community College. These classes are available for full-time students, part-time students and community members. Some classes require previous knowledge, but several entry-level courses exist. “Anyone can enroll in an entry-level course,” said Maria Padgett, instructor. “Zero experience is needed.”

One entry-level course is Ceramics I. In this class, students learn the basics of working with clay. “We start at the beginning, assuming you have no experience with clay,” said Padgett. “I think everyone has a really good time in this class.”

Walking into the class, you might find students who want to be artists or art teachers, but you will also see students who just want to take a fun class. You could also find retirees developing a new hobby.

Some students audit the class, meaning they do not get a grade, so they can just have fun. Some participants enjoy the class so much they take it more than once!

In Ceramics I, students learn how to use a pottery wheel, roll slabs, and join clay together. They also get to use armature, a framework of heavy, stiff wire that can be bent and twisted into a shape. Once the students have a shape they like, they add clay to create their masterpiece!

Within the first few weeks of class, students make their own functional bowls, mugs and plates, as well as decorative, sculptural items. “Sometimes, we’ll have a classroom with someone who’s brand new and someone who’s a little more seasoned working side by side,” said Padgett. “There’s this sense of community that develops. It’s a lot of fun.”