Open Studio is available exclusively to students (ages 16 and up) enrolled in a full-semester ceramics class. Students must register for Open Studio at the same location as their class to avoid transporting pottery between studios. Use this time to continue working on class projects. Tech support is offered during select Open Studio hours. 

• Monday: 9:30-12:00
• Tuesday: 1 pm - 3:30 pm
• Wednesday/Thursday: 4 pm - 6 pm
• Saturday/Sunday: 1 pm - 6:30 pm

Open Studio is available exclusively to students (ages 16 and up) enrolled in a full-semester ceramics class. Students must register for Open Studio at the same location as their class to avoid transporting pottery between studios. Use this time to continue working on class projects. Tech support is offered during select Open Studio hours. 

• Monday: 9:30 am - 12 pm
• Tuesday 9 am - 1 pm
• Wednesday/Friday: 9 am - 12 pm
• Saturday/Sunday: 1 pm - 6:30 pm

Inclusive Clay classes provide ceramic art education for adults with intellectual disabilities, fostering an inclusive and empowering environment. Participants learn handbuilding techniques like slab building, coiling, and pinching, with sessions also covering surface treatments and glazing.

This class is held in a ADA accessable studio space

Eligibility and Participation Requirements:

• Participants must be over 18 and enrolled in the PA Department of Human Services ODP-HCBS waiver program.
• A support person must accompany participants and stay for the entire class.
• Support staff can create pottery at no additional cost while ensuring their participant is adequately supported.

This 10-week course offers a comprehensive introduction to the art of wheel throwing. Students will learn the fundamentals of clay preparation, centering, and shaping basic forms like bowls and cylinders. As the course progresses, students will explore trimming, attaching handles, surface decoration techniques and glazing. With hands-on practice and one-on-one guidance, participants will refine their skills and complete personal projects. The final weeks focus on finishing touches and group critiques, providing students with a well-rounded foundation in the art of functional pottery. Suitable for beginners eager to explore the world of ceramics.

This class is held in a ADA accessable studio space

• 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!

Explore the art of wood firing in this hands-on course, culminating in a communal wood firing. Learn surface treatments, kiln loading, and firing techniques while creating work suited for atmospheric effects. Students receive a share of the firing, gaining firsthand experience in this dynamic, flame-driven process. Intermediate/advanced levels. Fee includes one share of the firing on March 28th-29th, 2026.

This class is scheduled to be held in CCS, which is only accessable by stairs.

• 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.

Improve throwing skills while learning the art of set making. This advanced class is for confident throwers who want to learn best practices for creating matching pieces, and groupings of work. 

Prerequisite: Intermediate to advanced wheel experience required.

This class is scheduled to be held in CCS, which is only accessable by stairs.

• 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.

Learn to throw a variety of functional, kitchen-ready pottery, including cups, bowls, plates, and mugs. This class is designed for all experience levels, from beginners looking to build foundational skills to experienced potters aiming to refine their techniques. Through hands-on demonstrations and personalized instruction, you'll explore form, balance, and functionality while developing confidence on the wheel. Whether you’re creating everyday dishware or experimenting with new shapes and styles, this class will help you craft beautiful and practical pieces to use and enjoy.

This class is held in a ADA accessable studio space

• 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!

Join this advanced throwing level class to discover how to transform thrown objects, and customize them to your unique style! Learn valuable studio tricks and tips that will boost your skills. Participate in demonstrations to acquire techniques, and enhance your work's functionality.

This class is scheduled to be held in CCS, which is only accessable by stairs.

• 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!