The best way to beat those winter blues? Take a pottery class!
We all know that familiar Rochester winter feeling. Every winter the sun disappears, hidden behind gray clouds for what feels like forever. The temperature outside struggles to hit 20 degrees, and the mere mention of more snow in the weather forecast makes you want to cringe.
Staying in doors is nice for a bit, but "hibernation mode" soon turns into “Get me out of this house mode”. While it’s tempting to stay curled up on the couch until April, the best way to beat the winter blues isn’t staying in, it’s by getting out and getting moving!
At Wheel & Slab Pottery Club, we believe winter is the perfect time to try your hand at making pottery. Our next round of pottery courses is now live, including two new special courses that are sure to light up your life and make you feel like a million bucks.
So grab your coat and throw on your boots, because once you finish reading, you’ll be racing to join us! If you're looking for a warm, social, and creative way to survive the Upstate New York chill, here is why our winter pottery courses are the hobby you’ve been waiting for.
Who are our pottery classes for?
Winter in Rochester can feel isolating, especially if you’re new to the area, a grad student at U of R, or a resident at Strong. We designed our classes to help people find common ground, and build connections in a safe, welcoming way.
There’s something about the shared experience of a "wobbly bowl" or the focused hum of the potter's wheel that breaks the ice instantly. You’ll walk in as a stranger and walk out having shared laughs and creative tips with a brand-new community.
Who will benefit from taking a class?
Winter can feel extra dreary, especially when the sun sets early and the temperature drops. But, by having a dedicated hobby like ceramics you are giving yourself something to look forward to.
Pottery isn't just about making a mug; it’s a tactile, meditative experience that pulls you into the present moment. It’s the perfect "digital detox”, why? well because you can’t check your phone when your hands are covered in clay!
Find Your Course: Beginner-Friendly Options
Whether you’ve never touched clay or haven’t since high school art class, we have a seat for you. Here are some of our upcoming pottery classes, as well as some descriptions to help you find the right fit.
Pottery 100 (Intro to Pottery): The perfect "sampler" course. You’ll try your hand at both wheel throwing and handbuilding—no experience necessary!
Pottery 101 (Beginner Wheel 1): Focus on the fundamentals. Learn to center, pull, and shape clay into your very first functional pieces.
SPECIAL - Design and Make Your Own Jewelry: Work with our instructor Sydney to learn the basics of jewelry design with clay, and make your very own earrings, bracelets and more!
SPECIAL - Handbuilt Lamps and Candle Holders: Our resident artist Gina will lead your group through several fun, light focused projects. This hand building course is sure to be enlightening! :D
Join the Club This Winter
Don’t let the Rochester winter keep you stuck indoors. Come join a community of makers, creators, and new friends. Our winter semesters fill up fast as people look for ways to stay active and inspired during the colder months, so be sure to grab your spot early.
