Join kiln builder and ceramic artist Tyler Gulden for a rare hands-on opportunity to help construct a new soda kiln at Historic Yellow Springs. Participants will assist with the building process and will also have the opportunity to be included in the kiln’s inaugural firing.   The build will be physically demanding and on a tight schedule so while efforts will be made to instruct participants through hands on tasks, it may be necessary for participants to step back and observe certain aspects to ensure quality construction and completion within the given time frame.

Discussion will cover how soda kilns function, the introduction of soda ash into the kiln at high temperatures, and how vapor glazing interacts with clay surfaces to produce rich, atmospheric effects. This collaborative workshop offers valuable insight into both kiln construction, loading, and firing philosophy.

Includes build participation and one share in first firing.

Loading: Monday, August 24

Firing: Tuesday, August 25

Unloading: Friday, August 28

Discover the expressive potential of pastels in this 10-week studio course. Start with foundational techniques through still life studies, focusing on application methods, understanding light and shadow, and exploring color blending. Build your confidence in observing and interpreting form, surface, and atmosphere, while developing your own artistic voice with this versatile medium. Whether you're new to pastels or looking to refine your skills, this class offers a supportive space to experiment and grow.

Click HERE to see the materials list for this course

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support the mission of HYS

Over four, two-hour classes you will build on the information learned in the Zentangle Basics class. Tangle Time expands your knowledge of “tangles” while exploring techniques that allow you to push your creativity to new heights. In each class you will expand your tangling techniques and add to your knowledge of tangles (patterns) Take your Zentangle journey ahead of basics to a level where you can create your own patterns in a fun and enjoyable way. Supplies: There will be a one-time supply fee of $12 payable to the instructor at time of first class if you do not have the basic Zentangle kit.

*It is recommended but not necessary that you take a basic Zentangle class first.

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support our mission! Learn more about it's benefits and discounts!

Whether you are a true beginner or you are looking to brush up on your drawing skills in charcoal and pastel, this class is your opportunity! Become familiar with the tools of pastel painting. Approach the easel with confidence with an understanding of the Elements of Design, Composition, Shape, Value and Color. You will receive plenty of individual attention and groups critiques will be offered at the end of each class.

Click HERE for a materials list for this course!

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support the mission of HYS

This demonstration workshop focuses using layered mark making to create surface design for altered wheel-thrown and hand-built pottery.  Workshop participants will learn a variety of methods including underglaze decorating, sgraffito, and other mark making techniques.  During the workshop we will discuss aesthetic issues (i.e. proportions, color theory, etc.), making strong functional pots at low fire temperatures, and creative problem solving in the studio. Additional discussions of marketing, social media and the changing landscape of contemporary craft will leave the workshop attendees recharged, rejuvenated and ready to grow in their own studio practice.

Learn more about this artist: CarterPottery.com

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support our mission! Learn more about it's benefits and discounts!

Working from live medicinal plant specimens, participants will draw roots, stems, leaves, and flowers through careful observation. Unlike historic botanical illustrations, living plants offer the delightful challenge of movement, variation, and imperfection—the leaf that curls, the flower that leans, the stem that refuses the composition you planned.

Drawing from direct observation, artists will strengthen their skills in proportion, line, texture, and form while developing a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of medicinal plants. Whether you are new to botanical art or an experienced artist, this workshop offers an opportunity to slow down, look closely, and connect with nature through drawing. Bring your curiosity and a willingness to really see.

Click HERE for a materials list for this workshop.

• We believe art should be accessible to all. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
• Membership is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support our mission! Learn more about it's benefits and discounts!