Clay for a Day:
Baltimore Clayworks

Written by: ^Northernstar*

 

For a while, I’ve been trying to figure out what in the world to do for Community Outreach since the Christmas holiday is coming up. I wanted to bring something to the table that would be fun and take me back to my childhood. But, I also intended on doing something I’ve never done before. So, I searched all day on the net for museums or art institutes that offered interactive activities. And I found the “Baltimore Clayworks”, which is a “non-profit ceramic art center that exists to develop, sustain, and promote an artist-centered community that provides outstanding artistic, educational, and collaborative programs in ceramic arts”. It is located in the Mount Washington area of Baltimore, Maryland on 5707 Smith Avenue with easy access for light rail riders.

 

From a 3-D style oversized hand growing outside of a face to a gigantic tongue sticking outside of a mouth…
the art was nothing short of breathtaking…

 

On December 8th, I took the time out to attend one of the adults’ “Ceramic Wheel Sampler” classes with photographer Savhad Lewis, which happened to be the last wheel class of the year. When we first got to the “Baltimore Clayworks” we were informed by John (the front desk receptionist) that we were not able to participate in the on-going sessions that start at $200 because they started in the beginning of November, but we could indeed observe one of the classes in session. And if we wanted to create some clay work ourselves, Saturdays at six would be the day for only $40.00. Since we were already there, we said, “Oh, what the hell” in laughter and began to look for our own excitement!

 

The institute itself was fairly small, which looked like a white, cartoonish cottage used for a romantic comedy. But, the captivating art pieces in the “Galleria” distracted you from the eerie feeling; from a 3-D style oversized hand growing outside of a face to a gigantic tongue sticking outside of a mouth… the art was nothing short of breathtaking. I was amazed at how something so volatile could actually be brought to life in an effortless fashion. I even began taking pictures with many of the price-tagged “items”, which ranged in the hundreds… very pricey, but perfect for your mother’s living room area or Christmas present for your “artsy” little sister.

 

If you are interested in finding a new artistic side to yourself, or want to give the perfect “gift” then “Baltimore Clayworks” can be the place for you.

 

Before leaving, Savhad and I walked across the street to go inside the “Clayworks Class & Workshop Center” where the ceramics class was held. We walked into the class of diversity, mixed with Black, White, old & young… and witnessed the instructor with a wire tool clay cutter, slicing through his clay to make the best shape. While I observed him stroking his hands around the clay, all I could hear in my head was the theme song to the Oscar-winning movie Ghost.  It looked like he was creating a bowl, and the rest of the class was placing the final touches on their glazed-induced ceramics, including a blue & white squared dish perfect for Christmas candy & a faded goldish brown tea cup used for decorating.

 

If you are interested in finding a new artistic side to yourself, or want to give the perfect “gift” then “Baltimore Clayworks” can be the place for you.

 

 

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